Hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail:
This hike is a short one with a length of less than half a mile and requiring roughly an hour of hiking time. To get to the trailhead, you need a vehicle to drive up Route 9 to the area right by the upper east entrance to the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The small parking lot on the south side of the road fills up quickly in the busy summer months, but there are several small overflow parking areas further east if you are willing to walk the road back to the trailhead. Unfortunately due to Zion National Park's epic popularity in recent years, finding parking to do this hike can often turn into a nightmare of gridlock as spots are very limited along Route 9. Get there very early or late in the day if you don't want to fight the worst of the crowds.
The trailhead is located behind the ranger traffic booth on the north side of the road. After several steps that take you up the slickrock above the road, the manufactured trail is mostly level, taking hikers around the beautiful sandstone formations above the Pine Creek slot canyon that can be seen below. While railings are in place for many sections of trail, be careful with children and anybody who isn't steady on their feet as there are a few exposed spots where a fall could be dangerous.
Halfway to the viewpoint, the trail heads into a wonderful little shaded alcove with a seep and lush ferns growing out of the sandstone walls; this area provides great respite during the hotter summer months. The next short section of trail is narrow and has a bit of exposure, so please be courteous when you pass other hikers.
Once at the viewpoint, a plaque points out many prominent landmarks. Some interesting things to look for: the Route 9 switchbacks below, Bridge Mountain (the highest peak on the left side of the canyon), the East Temple (the impressive rock formation above the viewpoint to the right), and the Pine Creek stream far below. Also look closely at the canyon walls to find several of the Zion-Mount-Carmel Tunnel "windows".
You can explore around the viewpoint, but be very careful as there cliff edges everywhere; a 1000-ft fall from the viewpoint would be fatal. Relax for as long as you like then return the way you came.
Joe's Spin:
This hike is short and sweet with a great viewpoint! If this is your first visit to Zion, do this hike; you will love the experience! Even after all of the times I have visited Zion, I still enjoy returning to this great little trail, but traffic and limited parking options can make the trailhead area a complete zoo.
