Observation Point Trail Zion National Park
Experience Zion's grandest vistas from Observation Point, offering unparalleled canyon views without the crowds or permit hassle of Angels Landing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Observation Point Trail Zion National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Zion's grandest vistas from Observation Point, offering unparalleled canyon views without the crowds or permit hassle of Angels Landing.
"Observation Point has the best views of Zion National Park, IMO and should be a must do during your trip to Zion!"
🚗 Shuttle is Key
Use the Zion Ponderosa Resort shuttle to the East Mesa Trailhead to avoid muddy roads and extra walking.
👢 Mud-Resistant Footwear
Waterproof and mud-resistant boots are a must, especially after rain. Your car will get muddy too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Postcard View
Observation Point Summit
Gaze down upon Zion Canyon, including a bird's-eye view of Angels Landing. Truly breathtaking!
East Mesa Trail Hike
Trailhead near Zion Ponderosa Resort
A relatively flat, 7-mile out-and-back hike offering stunning scenery without the intense climb of other Zion trails.
Alternative to Angels Landing
Observation Point Summit
Experience epic Zion views without permits, chains, or extreme crowds. A fantastic alternative for many hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Observation Point
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle is Key
Use the Zion Ponderosa Resort shuttle to the East Mesa Trailhead to avoid muddy roads and extra walking.
👢 Mud-Resistant Footwear
Waterproof and mud-resistant boots are a must, especially after rain. Your car will get muddy too!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download your trail map beforehand to navigate the East Mesa Trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The trail can be exposed, especially on the return. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle is Key
Use the Zion Ponderosa Resort shuttle to the East Mesa Trailhead to avoid muddy roads and extra walking.
👢 Mud-Resistant Footwear
Waterproof and mud-resistant boots are a must, especially after rain. Your car will get muddy too!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download your trail map beforehand to navigate the East Mesa Trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The trail can be exposed, especially on the return. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic vistas from Observation Point are unparalleled. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, panoramic views from Observation Point, often calling it superior to Angels Landing and a must-do in Zion. The East Mesa Trail is appreciated for being less crowded and less technically demanding, though the drive to the trailhead can be challenging due to mud, making shuttle services highly recommended. Some find the hike long, but the payoff is consistently described as breathtaking.
"Updates for March 2025.
We attempted to reach the Observation Point-and what a challenge it was! The road was covered in a lot of wet dirt, making for a messy but adventurous drive. be prepared-your car will be absolutely covered in a wet mud, so a wash ASAP is a must.
If you’re heading to the Observation Point itself, waterproof and mud-resistant boots (rubber boots, hiking shoes, etc.) are highly recommended. The hike takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes to the Observation point, depending on your pace.
On the way, we spotted a Rivian, which seemed to be handling the conditions just fine. Surprisingly, we also saw some brave (or risky) non-off-road cars making it about halfway through the dirt road-though we wouldn’t recommend trying that unless you’re up for an adventure
Super muddy experience, come prepared!"
Elena I.
"Great views and much less crowded than Angel's Landing. It's only 4 miles each way, but it is still quite a climb (2100 ft)."
Dan Wetzel
"Dirt road to trailhead can get really muddy so just use the Ponderosa Ranch jeep shuttle to avoid the headache of getting stuck. Trail is not too bad in terms of elevation since you are essentially starting near the top. There are a few very short finger trails that will lead you to some spectacular vistas of other canyons. Observation Point itself is breathtaking. You look down on the people doing Angel's Landing. In my opinion, this is a superior lookout point and a lot less crowded. Weather can change quick on you so be prepared for some unexpected rain."
Ben Deceuster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trail from the canyon floor is closed. The most common access is via the East Mesa Trail. This often involves taking a shuttle from Zion Ponderosa Resort to the trailhead, or driving on a dirt road that can become very muddy.
The dirt road can get extremely muddy after rain, making it challenging for standard vehicles. High-clearance or 4x4 vehicles are recommended if you plan to drive yourself, or opt for the shuttle service.
The East Mesa Trail to Observation Point is approximately 3.5 miles one way, making it a 7-mile round trip hike.
No, a permit is not required for the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point, making it a great alternative to Angels Landing.
The hike typically takes 3-4 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views at the summit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Zion National Park has an entrance fee. However, accessing Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail does not require additional fees beyond the park entrance or any shuttle costs.
The East Mesa Trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Zion Ponderosa Resort shuttle has specific operating times, so check their schedule in advance.
Hiking Observation Point in winter is possible, but be prepared for cold temperatures and potential snow or ice on the trail. The East Mesa Trail is generally less affected by snow than canyon floor trails.
Dogs are not permitted on most trails within Zion National Park, including the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.
The East Mesa Trail has a moderate elevation gain of approximately 700 feet over its 3.5-mile length to Observation Point.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Midday can be harsh but still offers incredible scale.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vast canyon vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or photographing wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots.
The main summit offers the iconic postcard view. However, there are also smaller, unmarked spur trails that can lead to unique perspectives of the surrounding canyons.
Drone usage is prohibited in Zion National Park to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Please adhere to all park regulations.
The trail winds through forests and offers glimpses of the red rock landscape. Look for interesting tree formations framing the distant cliffs and the changing light on the canyon walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider the shuttle service to avoid the muddy road hassle. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make sure everyone has comfortable, sturdy shoes. The relatively gradual incline makes it easier for kids to keep pace. The sheer scale of the view from Observation Point is sure to impress even the youngest hikers.
+1🚶 Budget Travelers
Saving money: Opting to drive to the East Mesa Trailhead (if conditions permit) or utilizing the shuttle service are the main costs. Packing your own food and water will save significantly compared to purchasing on-site. This hike offers world-class views without the premium price tag of some other attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the East Mesa Trail
+1Accessing the trailhead can be an adventure in itself. Many visitors opt for a shuttle service from Zion Ponderosa Resort or nearby adventure outfitters. This is highly recommended as the dirt road leading to the trailhead can become extremely muddy and impassable for standard vehicles after rain. If you choose to drive, be prepared for a messy car and potentially getting stuck. Downloading an offline map is crucial, as cell service is very spotty along the route.
Key takeaway: Plan your transportation to the trailhead in advance and be prepared for potentially muddy conditions. The East Mesa Trail offers a rewarding experience with spectacular views without the extreme challenges of other Zion hikes.
Observation Point vs. Angels Landing
While Angels Landing is known for its thrilling, narrow ridge hike, Observation Point offers a more traditional hiking experience via the East Mesa Trail. The 7-mile round trip is manageable for many, and the payoff is immense. The lack of permits and chains means you can often enjoy the views with fewer people, especially if you time your visit strategically.
In essence: If you want the 'wow' factor of Zion's iconic views without the adrenaline-pumping climb and permit hassle, Observation Point is your destination. It provides a grand, sweeping panorama that truly captures the scale and beauty of Zion National Park.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit