Observation Point via Stave Spring/East Rim

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

This beautifully technical trail provides arguably the best View of Zion from the stunning Observation Point. Climb through the rough terrain and descend into the canyon as this trail provides a worthy alternative to some of the recently blocked trails due to rock falls. You'll be rewarded with abundant beautiful scenery along the way ranging from forest and canyon views to contouring mesas and a finale overview of the magnificent Virgin River at Observation Point.

This trail is a part of Zion National Park and requires paying the National Park Entry Fee to access.

This beautiful trail is a great day hike to Observation Point. Starting on the short Stave Spring Trail, this route begins on a plateau covered in trees and follows a portion of the East Rim Trail as it descends from the plateau edge down to the canyon below. Traverse through the canyon to connect to the East Mesa Trail and begin the ascent as you wind your way up the northern edge of the canyon all while overlooking a small mesa to your side. The trail continues to wind and contour along the edge until the short end of the Observation Point Trail brings you to the Observation Point overlook.

The technical challenges and elevation changes of the route are rewarded by stunning views of Zion's East Mesa and the Virgin River valley below. This trail is the gift that keeps on giving as many unique beautiful vistas will be enjoyed all throughout the journey.

At points in the canyon, the trail may be hard to track, but following the rock cairns setup along the trail to help guide you to the start of East Mesa Trail.

The trail is best in the late spring and fall. The trail typically has deep snow in the winter that can remain until late spring. During the summer months the trail can get very dry and hot.