ZION NATIONAL PARK — Frequently called “Yosemite with color”, Zion National Park’s dizzying, vertical landscape is home to at least three of North America’s most infamous and iconic hikes: The Zion Narrows, The Subway and Angels Landing. These three trails alone would be justification for calling Zion a hiker’s paradise, but in true Utah wilderness fashion, Zion has still more to offer.

The trail to Observation Point along the rim of Zion Canyon is often overlooked by hikers eager to notch off the above-mentioned trails from their lists. But considering the hike to Observation Point as little more than a backup attraction to Zion’s better-known treks would be a huge mistake. In fact, you’d have a hard time finding a more stunning view of Zion Canyon anywhere else in the park.

But it’s not just the view at the end of the trail that makes an excursion to Observation Point well worth the effort. Hiking through the particularly beautiful Echo (slot) Canyon and Zion’s stunning, less visited backcountry makes each step of this challenging hike a feast for the senses.

Need more convincing? Due to it’s lesser-known status and more demanding nature, the hike to Observation Point is rarely as crowded as some of Zion’s more popular trails like the Narrows and Angels Landing. And unlike hiking the Subway and portions of the Narrows, hiking to Observation Point does not require a permit.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before venturing out:

Level of difficulty

Hiking to Observation Point is considered strenuous by the National Park Service and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. It's not a technical hike, but it can be physically demanding. This 8-mile out and back excursion climbs a total of 2,148 feet relatively quickly, beginning with switchbacks located at the Weeping Rock shuttle stop before entering Echo Canyon and then hiking the winding trail through Zion’s backcountry. The final stretch follows the east rim of Zion Canyon before concluding with a jaw-dropping view from Observation Point.

Safety

Rangers in Zion National Park respond to over 250 medical/emergency incidents every year. Make sure your party is not numbered among them. Take responsibility for the safety of everyone in your group before embarking on this hike.

Weather, drop offs, and physical exertion are the three main considerations you must not take for granted when hiking to Observation Point.

Never venture into canyon country without first checking the forecast and being well aware of flashflood danger. While southern Utah's monsoon season typically spans July to September, potentially dangerous storms can occur any month. Current weather advisories and trail conditions are available at the information desk located in the Zion National Park Visitor Center.

Temperatures in Zion National Park regularly exceed 100 degrees in the summer making heat stroke and heat exhaustion real possibilities. Know your limits.

Zion can also experience frigid to freezing temperatures from fall to spring. Narrow canyons and the Zion plateau can be significantly cooler than elsewhere in the park. The portion of the trail found in Echo Canyon may also require a brief walk through shallow pools so hikers should plan accordingly and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

On hotter days, try hiking in the early morning and evening and make sure you drink plenty of water (one gallon of water per adult per day is recommended.) There are no water or restrooms available on trail.

Zion is home to some of the world’s tallest sandstone cliffs. Hiking to Observation Point brings with it a special appreciation for that distinction. Several sections of the trail are accompanied by sheer drop offs, including some more than 2,000 feet above the canyon floor. To say these stretches are thrilling would be an understatement, but it is essential to be mindful of where you step. If there have been recent storms or freezing temperatures, be wary of mud, ice or wet surfaces along the trail and be aware of loose rocks or slick surfaces, especially near the ledges.

The trail itself is easily wide enough to allow safe passage, but use caution; a fall from one of Zion’s towering cliffs will quickly ruin your day.

Wildlife

Wild animals lend a heartbeat to Utah’s rugged landscapes. Zion National Park is home to many remarkable creatures large and small — both common and exceptionally rare. Keep your eyes open and take some time to stop and scan the slopes and cliffs above (or below) and you may be rewarded with a unique wildlife sighting.

However, remember that it is unlawful to feed, harass or capture any animal within any national park. Make sure to give all wild animals their space. It’s the best way to keep yourself and wildlife safe.

Do Your Part

There are plenty of switchbacks along this trail, and with them comes the temptation to take shortcuts. However, remember that straying from official trails, bare rock or dry washes accelerates erosion, damages vegetation and necessitates expensive repairs. Utah’s national parks, and Zion in particular, are more popular than ever, and with the growing crowds come increased pressures. Zion is already more than $70 million behind in repairs and constantly combats vandalism. Don’t add to it —stay on the trail.

Finally, souvenirs are available in the visitor center gift shop and in the city of Springdale— not on the trail. It is unlawful to remove any natural or historic feature from any national park. Enjoy your visit to Zion National Park by taking only pictures and leaving no trace and do your part to make sure Utah’s rugged landscapes are unspoiled for coming generations.

Mike Godfrey is a graduate of BYU and along with his wife Michelle, the manager of At Home in Wild Spaces, an outdoor recreation website, blog and community, dedicated to sharing national parks, wilderness areas, hiking/biking Trails, and more.

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