Hiking to Observation Point: The Trail That Looks Down on Zion's Best

Few trails in Zion National Park deliver views as commanding or experiences as unforgettable as the Observation Point hike via the East Mesa Trail. Perched high above Zion Canyon, the moderately easy route offers sweeping views of landmarks like Angels Landing, Great White Throne, and Hidden Canyon without the intense crowds found elsewhere in the park. Whether you’re chasing a glowing Zion sunset, seeking solitude among the pines, or visiting one of the park’s most iconic overlooks, the hike to Observation Point is a must for anyone looking to experience the best of southern Utah hiking and Zion’s panoramic beauty.

Trailhead elevation 6,522'

Water none

Don't miss Mis-Me and Mystery Canyon views

Hiking to Observation Point

It’s my first evening back in Zion National Park, and I can’t think of a better way to kick things off than with a return hike to Observation Point — one of the most beautiful viewpoints in all of southern Utah. I’ve made the trek several times before, both from the now-closed Weeping Rock Trailhead and the still-accessible East Mesa Trailhead, which has become the only route to this incredible overlook. The drive in is an adventure in itself. The first eight miles from Zion’s east entrance roll smoothly over pavement, but once I pass Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, the road turns wild — three rough miles of deep ruts, loose rock, and terrain best handled by a high-clearance vehicle. I suspect that a sedan could make the trip, but the last quarter mile is really gnarly.

By 5:30 p.m., I pull into the small 15-car lot at the trailhead. With rain in the forecast, it’s only half full — a rare gift. In years past, finding parking up here was often the hardest part of the hike. All of the land surrounding the trailhead is private, peppered with no parking signs that make the few available spots all the more coveted.

I toss a liter of water into my pack and set off down the trail. The East Mesa Trail is gentle and easy to follow, winding through a fragrant forest of Ponderosa pine, juniper, and Gambel oak. Shafts of evening light cut through the trees, and every so often the canyon opens up, offering teasing glimpses of the vast wilderness to the north

About 1.2 miles in, I take a faint, hiker-made path to the right. In just a few hundred feet, I’m standing at the southern rim of Mis-Me Canyon, staring into a deep sandstone gorge that looks painted by the hand of some ancient artist.

A mile later, I follow another faint spur trail, this one leading to another spectacular view — Mystery Canyon. It’s a breathtaking sight, the kind that makes you hang around longer than planned.

As I continue west, memories of a long-ago hike with my dad come flooding back — the two of us trudging up in blistering heat, sweat mixing with red dust. Tonight though, the air is cool and kind, a steady breeze pushing me toward the edge of Zion’s endless sky.

With just under a mile to go, the trail, which had been a steady uphill stroll up to this point, begins to descend, revealing layer after layer of sandstone cliffs. Large temples, white domes, and crimson canyons stretch across the horizon like an impossible dream.

The final approach is soft sand underfoot, and as I crest the ridge, the world opens up. By 6:30, I’m standing atop Mount Baldy at Observation Point, high above Zion Canyon. A young couple is taking wedding photos — an unforgettable backdrop for the start of their life together. I give them space and find my own spot to the right of the overlook.

No fiery sunset tonight — just a soft wash of gold and lavender settling over the cliffs. Still, it’s gorgeous. From here I can see Angel’s Landing and The Organ below, the mouth of Hidden Canyon and Great White Throne to the left, and far down the valley, Red Arch Mountain, Mount Zion, Lady Mountain, and East Temple dominating the skyline.

I zoom in with my camera, catching a glimpse of hikers lounging atop Angel’s Landing — their silhouettes tiny against the vast canyon. Off to my right lies the West Rim Trail, which I’ll be backpacking in the coming days. To my left, the faint trace of the old Echo Canyon Trail, now closed, reminds me of past visits to the park.

After a quick stop at the geological marker and a few words of congratulations to the newlyweds, I toss on my pack and start back toward the trailhead. The sun slips away, and by the final mile, I’m hiking in near-total darkness. That’s when I hear it — a faint rattle. Not panic-inducing, but enough to make me freeze. My headlamp sweeps the trail, and there it is: a small Timber rattlesnake, coiled just fifteen feet ahead. I step wide to give it space, but as I pass, the little guy lunges — missing me by a few feet.

By 8:15, I’m back at my truck, the stars now brilliant overhead. Another Observation Point hike complete, with a few extra thrills for good measure. Tomorrow, I set out on the West Rim Trail — and I can’t wait to see what Zion has in store next.