Zion Canyon Overlook

Hop in your car, wind through iconic Zion National Park and through the Zion Mount Carmel tunnel, and emerge at the trailhead for Zion Canyon Overlook.

When we have visitors that have never been to Zion, this is one of our favorite trails to introduce them to the grandeur of the park. Not only is the drive to the trailhead beautiful, the trail itself yields a magnificent view that many can get to.

The trail begins its slow, steady climb immediately. There is a fun, short section on wood planks and through an alcove. You will often need to take turns with oncoming hikers on narrower parts of the trail, this is one of the most popular trails in the park. 

When you reach the overlook, the world falls out below you. The cliffs of Zion stretch before you. You can look down on the road you came in on. There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the view, and to get some epic photos should you so desire. When we have friends and family visit for the first time, when we reach this overlook and share the view, it explains why we live here

Difficulty: Easy to mild.

Trail Stats: 1 mile, out and back, 157 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Easy to navigate. 

Conditions: Rock, packed dirt, some sandstone sections.

Would I Repeat This: Absolutely! We have done this hike many a times, we love it.

Parking: Limited. There are a handful of spots near the trailhead. If those are filled, you can park along the road on designated shoulders and as long as you are off the road and not obstructing traffic in any way.

Timing: You really can enjoy this year round.

Downloaded Map: Not needed.

Fees: This hike is within Zion National Park. You will need to pay the entrance fee or show your National Parks Annual Pass.

Trails: Many Pools, Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock, Scout’s Landing, Riverside Walk, The Narrows, and more!