Canyon Overlook Trail
Short, rewarding hike in Zion National Park offering stunning panoramic canyon views without a permit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Canyon Overlook Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Short, rewarding hike in Zion National Park offering stunning panoramic canyon views without a permit.
"Amazing views, but the difficulty of this "short" hike is maybe understated."
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited! Try early AM or late PM. Roadside parking is an option if the lot is full.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring ample water. Heat exhaustion is a risk, even on this short trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Canyon Views
End of the trail
Experience breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon. A reward for a short, scenic hike.
Unique Rock Formations
Along the trail
Navigate through fascinating sandstone formations and enjoy the unique desert landscape.
Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel
Trailhead vicinity
The historic tunnel itself is an engineering marvel, adding to the adventure of reaching the trailhead.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking is a Puzzle
Trail Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited! Try early AM or late PM. Roadside parking is an option if the lot is full.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring ample water. Heat exhaustion is a risk, even on this short trail.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While short, the trail has uneven terrain and some rocky sections.
⚠️ Mind the Drop-offs
Sections are narrow with no railings. Exercise caution, especially with children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited! Try early AM or late PM. Roadside parking is an option if the lot is full.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring ample water. Heat exhaustion is a risk, even on this short trail.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While short, the trail has uneven terrain and some rocky sections.
⚠️ Mind the Drop-offs
Sections are narrow with no railings. Exercise caution, especially with children.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great option for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Canyon Overlook Trail for its absolutely breathtaking views, often comparing them favorably to more challenging hikes. While many find it a worthwhile and relatively short experience, some caution that the 'easy' rating might understate the trail's narrow sections with steep drop-offs and the potential for heat exhaustion. Parking is a significant challenge for many.
"Amazing views, but the difficulty of this "short" hike is maybe understated. Good climb to start up the stairs, then very narrow with no railings for parts of the trail. Hiked next to a young child (3-4yr) and it was a bit above their expertise level, so if bringing young kids be cautious. Another hiker was being assisted due to heat exhaustion. If prepared, you shouldn't have too many issues and can enjoy the incredible view."
Aaron Wilmer
"Amazing views and hike is not too rough. Must stop when in Zion. Small parking lot near entrance of tunnel"
Jeff
"Worth it. Parking isn’t easy but this is a great hike. Restrooms near the trailhead. Keep walking down the hill/road. Trailhead is a set of stairs on the right that go up. There are several shaded areas along the path. If you have a large group let everyone know that some sections are only wide enough for 1 person, so it’s important to communicate and let hikers going the other direction pass."
Josh Orendi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel on Highway 9. You'll need to drive your own vehicle as it's not accessible by the Zion shuttle system.
Yes, there's a small parking lot right at the trailhead. However, it fills up very quickly. Many visitors find success parking along the roadside if the lot is full.
No, the Canyon Overlook Trail is not accessible via the Zion National Park shuttle system. You must drive to the trailhead.
To avoid crowds, aim to visit very early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays. Sunset can be a popular time but may also be crowded.
Yes, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is open and is a key landmark on the way to the trailhead. Be aware of potential delays for oversized vehicles passing through the tunnel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a permit is not required for the Canyon Overlook Trail. This makes it a great alternative if you can't secure a permit for other popular Zion hikes like Angels Landing. 
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific operating hours posted, but it's best to hike during safe daylight conditions.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Zion National Park. You'll need to pay the standard park entrance fee, which is valid for 7 days.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the trailhead, which can be convenient before or after your hike.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential wildlife encounters. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It's a short 1-mile round trip with about 160 feet of elevation gain, but it includes some stairs and narrow, rocky sections.
Most visitors complete the hike in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the views.
While short, the trail has narrow sections with steep drop-offs and no railings, which can be challenging for very young children or those afraid of heights. Parental supervision is crucial.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, as the trail can be rocky and uneven. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change.
Yes, some sections are narrow with significant drop-offs and no railings, requiring careful footing and awareness. Heat exhaustion has also been a concern for some hikers.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh, but the vastness of the canyon is still impressive.
You can capture sweeping panoramic views of Zion Canyon, unique sandstone formations, and the winding road below. It's a prime spot for landscape photography.
The main overlook area can get crowded, especially during peak times. Be patient, or explore slightly off the main path (safely) for different perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive views. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright desert sun and enhance colors.
Drones are generally prohibited within Zion National Park, including on trails like the Canyon Overlook Trail, to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience. Always check current park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that certain sections of the trail are narrow with steep drop-offs and no railings. Bringing plenty of water is also essential, as the desert sun can be intense. 🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to bring water for your dog as well, and be mindful of the trail's terrain and potential heat. Always clean up after your pet to help keep the trail pristine for everyone.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 You'll want a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the canyon. Be prepared for crowds at the main viewpoint, but the short hike allows for flexibility in timing your visit to catch the best light. The unique sandstone formations along the trail also provide excellent foreground interest for your shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Access
To increase your chances of securing a spot, aim for very early morning or late afternoon visits. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If the main lot is full, don't despair; parking is permitted along the roadside leading up to the trailhead. However, this can also be competitive, and you might end up with a slightly longer walk to the actual trail entrance.
Be prepared for potential delays if you're driving through the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, especially if you're in an oversized vehicle. The tunnel itself is an experience, but it can add time to your journey to the trailhead.
Planning ahead and having a flexible mindset regarding parking is key to a smooth experience.Understanding Trail Safety and Suitability
Travelers have noted that while it's often labeled 'easy,' the exposure and uneven terrain can be more challenging than anticipated, particularly for very young children or individuals with a fear of heights. One review mentioned a young child struggling with the trail's demands.
Capturing the Iconic Views
The trail itself winds through interesting sandstone formations, providing opportunities for unique shots before you even reach the main overlook. For the best photographic results, aim for the 'golden hours' – the period shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. During these times, the light is softer, casting dramatic shadows and warm hues across the canyon walls.
While midday offers bright light, it can be harsh and create strong contrasts. Be prepared for crowds at the main overlook, especially during popular times. Patience is key, and sometimes exploring slightly off the main path (safely!) can reveal different perspectives. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the landscape. 
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