OBSERVATION POINT TRAIL

TRAIL INFORMATION

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Overview:
The view from Observation Point is a Zion classic.  Following the "East Rim Trail" (which continues to the East Entrance of the park), the route to Observation Point is an 8-mile hike (round trip) from the Weeping Rock shuttle stop to the viewpoint high above the canyon floor. The paved trail was cut out of the canyon walls by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's.  The trail zigzags its way up the east canyon walls until it escapes out to Echo Canyon -- a large hanging side canyon with beautiful slickrock and stunning white cliffs. The trail continues up and and works its way out of Echo Canyon to the top of the east plateau, then just as your legs have had enough, the final mile is a mostly level sandy approach around to the amazing viewpoint. This hike offers many stunning views and is a "must do" for those who are in good physical condition!

Detailed Description:
The hike from Weeping Rock to Observation Point and back is roughly 8 miles (round trip) with an elevation gain of over 2,100 feet. For those in fairly good shape, the hike could take between 4 to 6 hours. There are also several side trails that connect off of the main Observation Point Trail:

• Hidden Canyon: Roughly halfway up the initial ascent from Weeping Rock is the spur trail to Hidden Canyon. Many guidebooks recommend hiking to Hidden Canyon as a quick diversion on your way to Observation Point, but this doesn't allow enough time for exploring Hidden. Give yourself an extra 1-4 hours if you intend on exploring beyond the mouth of the canyon. (See the Hidden Canyon description.)
• East Rim Trail (to Cable Mountain and Deertrap Mountain): About a mile into Echo Canyon, you will reach the junction with the East Rim Trail to both Cable Mountain and Deertrap Mountain. (Both destinations are long hikes deserving their own days.) If you have enough time, you might want to explore this trail a bit to get more great views of upper Echo Canyon, but keep track of time! This trail is also much rougher than the well-maintained main Observation Point route, so proceed with caution!
• East Mesa Trail: A not-so-commonly used alternate route to Observation Point is by the East Mesa Trail: a sandy, fairly level trail that connects with a jeep road at the East boundary of the park. The East Mesa Trail connects with the main trail less than half-a-mile from the viewpoint.

Joe's Spin:
Weeping Rock to Observation Point is a good workout. While the zigzagging trail may prove to be a bit monotonous for some, the view from Observation Point is stunning. Equally sublime are the views in Echo Canyon, from the grand beauty of the White Cliffs to the intimate beauty of peering into the slot canyon sections as the trail crosses the drainage. You will definitely feel this hike in your legs and in your lungs!

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