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Zion Canyon:Author of the site, Tanya Milligan, standing at the end of the Observation Point Trail. Several more switchbacks lead even higher and soon the trail becomes fairly level as a spur on hikers right leads into Echo Canyon. Bypass this spur and continue north up the trail. The Hidden Canyon Trail intersects the Observation Point Trail and takes off on its own at about the 1.5 mile mark. The huge Weeping Rock alcove can be seen during much of the hike and if you are lucky enough to be there after heavy rains, several waterfalls might be visible. The path ascends rapidly as hikers climb the long switchbacks toward their destination. Observation Point shares the first part of the trail with the East Rim and Hidden Canyon Trails and branches off the Weeping Rock Trail at the trailhead. If you visit during the winter months, when the shuttle shuts down, drive into Zion Canyon and park at the Weeping Rock Trailhead. Water Availability: Echo Canyon is an unreliable source,ĭirections - If the shuttle is running, take it to the Weeping Rock Trailhead. Get an early start in the hot summer months to take advantage of the western exposure and shade in the morning.
![observation point trail observation point trail](https://www.citrusmilo.com/zionguide/maps/jbraun_obspmap.jpg)
In the winter the trail can become impassible due to ice.
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Year-round as long as snow and ice are not present on the trail. The rest of the year, when the shuttles are not operating, drive into the canyon and park at the Weeping Rock parking lot. Park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to ride the shuttle and get off at the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. Private cars are allowed in Zion Canyon the rest of the year. Usually from April 1st until October 30th Zion Canyon is accessed via the shuttle. Stay away from the edge of the trail and cliff edges.
#Observation point trail full#
It is mostly in full sun and the steep downhill return can be hard on toes and knees. Trail Conditions: Most of the trail is a hard surface. Hikers that are use to Zion's steep downhill hikes know to lace their shoes tightly on the return to prevent your toes from constantly jamming into the end of your shoes. If you have poor fitting shoes it can be quite painful on your toes on the return hike. Maps: Trail Map - Backcountry Map - Overview Mapĭifficulty: The path is steep and gains elevation quickly, making it one of the most strenuous of the classic hikes in the park. The Virgin River forms a lush river valley below, where water skirts around Angels Landing and the Organ, forming Big Bend. On the left is the East Rim, Cable Mountain, Great White Throne and far down canyon glimpses of the Watchman and beyond the park, even Canaan Mountain can be seen. A little farther down canyon the Three Patriarchs stand at attention. At the end, the West Rim Trail can be seen to the right as well as lofty Angels Landing which covers much of the white rock of Cathedral Mountain. At the trails end, looking down into the canyon is a spectacular display of stone sculptures contrasted by the bluest of skies – thanks to the clean air of southern Utah. Beyond Echo Canyon walls drop sharply, giving way to spectacular views.
![observation point trail observation point trail](https://live.staticflickr.com/5691/22163131092_ed3e0cb4d5_b.jpg)
Near the top of the trek you will see white rock this layer is known as the Temple Cap formation. The maintained path zigzags its way up the steep mountainside beside familiar reddish Navajo sandstone before venturing through Echo Canyon, a deep gorge filled with water gnawed sandstone pockets. Spend a few hours trudging up a steep mountainside to one of the best viewpoints offered by the list of Zion's classic trails. This challenging path is complete with dizzying drop offs and eye popping scenery looking down into Zion Canyon. Zion National Park Lodging Zion Info Vacation Weather Photos Hike Slot Canyons Backpack Camping