Zion National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country. This Utah national park gets nearly 5 million visitors each year! But most of those visitors stick to hiking Zion’s claims to fame: The Narrows and Angels Landing. But I’m here to tell you something secret… those aren’t the best hikes in Zion National Park! How long does it take to hike observation point zion.
How long is observation point hike?
| Rating: | Fairly strenuous day hike |
|---|---|
| Access: | The Weeping Rock Trailhead (the 7th stop for the Zion Canyon Shuttle in Zion’s main canyon) |
| Time Required: | 4-6 hours |
| Length: | 4 miles one-way (Weeping Rock to Observation Point) |
| Elevation Change: | 2100-ft elevation gain along the trail |
How long does it take to hike Canyon Overlook trail Zion?
| Rating: | Easy short family hike |
|---|---|
| Access: | Canyon Overlook Trailhead/parking lot (just to the east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel on Route 9) |
| Time Required: | 30 minutes-1 hour |
| Length: | 1 mile round-trip |
| Elevation Change: | mostly level after the initial steps up |
Can you still hike to Observation Point Zion?
Yes, Observation Point [Observation Point is a 6,507-foot (1,983 m) elevation Navajo Sandstone feature located in Zion National Park, in Washington County of southwest Utah, United States] is OPEN as of 2023! There are two different trailheads for the Observation Point hike: Weeping Rock trailhead or East Mesa Trailhead. The only way to access it currently is via the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point, and this route is actually much easier than the old route from Weeping Rock!
What is the easiest way to get to Observation Point Zion?
Observation Point can only be reached on foot. The two main trails to Observation Point are from the Weeping Rock Trailhead and the East Mesa Trailhead. To hike Observation Point from the Weeping Rock Trailhead, park at the visitor center and take the free shuttle to the trailhead.
How hard is Observation Point Zion?
The Observation Point hike is strenuous. The 7.1-mile trail has roughly 2,800 feet of elevation gain. That is an average 15% grade for the ascent to Observation Point. While this hike is strenuous, even less experienced hikers can complete the hike with plenty of water and breaks.
How long is the hike from East Mesa Trailhead to Observation Point?
The hike from the East Mesa Trailhead to Observation Point is 3.2 miles (one way) and could take an average hiker 1.5 hours (one way).
Which is better Observation Point or Angels Landing?
The Observation Point [Observation Point is a 6,507-foot (1,983 m) elevation Navajo Sandstone feature located in Zion National Park, in Washington County of southwest Utah, United States] trail is less dangerous and terrifying than the Angel’s Landing hike. Though there are some cliff edges, there are no narrow, exposed edges that will leave you clinging to the rock or chains, but the overall hike is actually longer and more strenuous.
Is Canyon Overlook Trail easy to hike?
The Canyon Overlook hike is a mere 1-mile round-trip and is rated as easy. There is a small parking lot available on the south side of Highway 9, across the street from the trailhead, which makes parking easy.
How hard is Canyon Overlook Trail?
Head out on this 1.0-mile out-and-back trail near Springdale, Utah. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 29 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Is Canyon Overlook Trail safe?
There is no real danger if you keep together, but if your kids are the kind that run ahead, this may not be a hike for you. Most of the drop-offs are blocked by a fence or railing, but little children could easily slide under the railing.
How long does it take to hike observation point zion, Observation Point Zion is the best hike and it is wildly underrated compared to the crowded Narrows and Angels Landing hikes. From the epic Observation Point summit, you can see all of Zion Canyon, including a view of Angel’s Landing. Keep reading for the best tips on hiking Observation Point, including how to reach Observation Point from the East Mesa Trail.
