East Rim Trail
Iconic Zion views via East Mesa Trail & thrilling MTB loops at East Rim. Experience nature's grandeur and adrenaline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking.
East Rim Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Zion views via East Mesa Trail & thrilling MTB loops at East Rim. Experience nature's grandeur and adrenaline.
"The East Rim Trail system is a must-visit for experienced mountain bikers and hikers seeking breathtaking views."
🚗 Shuttle to Observation Point
Use East Zion Adventures shuttle for easier access to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail. :bus:
🚵 MTB: Bring the Right Bike!
A true mountain bike with wide tires, good brakes, and suspension is essential for East Rim trails. :mountain_bicyclist:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Observation Point Views
Zion National Park (via East Mesa Trail)
Breathtaking panoramic views of Zion Canyon, offering a unique perspective of the park's grandeur.
Lamb Loop Trail
East Rim Trail System (Ohio)
A flowy, technical mountain bike trail with berms, rock gardens, jumps, and challenging climbs.
Jolley Gulch Overlook
East Zion
A beautiful overlook with serious drop-offs, offering a less crowded alternative to Zion Canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Zion's Observation Point Access
Mountain Biking for Experienced Riders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle to Observation Point
Use East Zion Adventures shuttle for easier access to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail. :bus:
🚵 MTB: Bring the Right Bike!
A true mountain bike with wide tires, good brakes, and suspension is essential for East Rim trails. :mountain_bicyclist:
⚠️ East Rim Trail Closure
The direct East Rim Trail to Observation Point is closed. Use East Mesa Trailhead. :warning:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating rocky and uneven terrain on Zion trails. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle to Observation Point
Use East Zion Adventures shuttle for easier access to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail. :bus:
🚵 MTB: Bring the Right Bike!
A true mountain bike with wide tires, good brakes, and suspension is essential for East Rim trails. :mountain_bicyclist:
⚠️ East Rim Trail Closure
The direct East Rim Trail to Observation Point is closed. Use East Mesa Trailhead. :warning:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating rocky and uneven terrain on Zion trails. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Echoes
Experience the natural acoustics of Echo Canyon; phone cameras may struggle to capture the magic. :camerawithflash:
⬆️ Directional MTB Trails
East Rim MTB trails are directional by day; check local guidance. Hikers should go opposite. :arrow_up:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The East Rim Trail system is a highly-rated destination, especially for experienced mountain bikers who praise its challenging loops, berms, and jumps. Hikers seeking incredible views can still access Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail, though the original route is closed. Some find the climbs demanding and certain sections very technical.
"East Rim Trail was an absolute riot, and I really wish I had a trail this nice in my area. Most trails I ride have to be "accessible to all" with maybe an advanced loop if you're lucky, but this one pulls most of the stops and really let's a MTB rider rip! You can make it a moderate pedal with some berms and rocks and jumps and push into an epic challenge, depending on how hard you push yourself (and if you select the "advanced riders only" trails).
As others have mentioned this certainly is for experienced riders. If I had to recommend a bike, I'd say a true mountain bike with wide tires that can handle rocks, good brakes, and suspension fork. A full squish likely a good idea for climbing grip, though nothing is so steep it'd require a downhill bike (nor would you want to pedal a long travel bike back up the hills). I would not attempt this on a gravel bike or hybrid etc. I would not bring young kids but my teenage son that has ridden plenty of other trails with me before with an air of "jeez why do you think this is so difficult bruh" would probably have loved it (And to him I say get a job and buy a house and have a family and THEN tell me how easy a ride is... but I digress). Point is, experienced mtb teens can probably handle this, but use caution. I would not bring my inexperienced adult mtb friends here.
Starting from the main lot, riding north you can find a couple of loops to the west. The first one, the East Rim Loop, throws some great berms and rock gardens at you, with moderate climbs, lotsa roots, and decent flow. My second lap I opted for the "advanced" segment and was met with a real challenge - do beware this is a legit difficult portion! It is extremely rocky and the rocks tend towards the edge of the trail and would lead to a nasty tumble below. But I could handle the technical part, for me the biggest challenge was the punchy, rock strewn-climbs when I had no way to keep my speed up because of the choppy terrain, so I walked a good bit of it. If my legs were fresh I might have pedaled it all, but regardless it was so much fun! I truly appreciated the challenge.
The after I completed that second lap, I went to the main trail and headed north again, over the bridge, and dove left into the Lamb Loop. This trail was exactly what I wish every trail was like!!! It's longer than the east rim loop, opening up and breathing a little more, timing out the berms and the technical moments a little better. It was mostly flowy and bonus it was gorgeous wrapped in it's pre-autumn flora in the valleys and leaf littered hills around the trail making a fun pedal through the woods even more enjoyable.
Then there's a portion that is almost like a downhill park, lots of jumps, rock features, and switchbacks, SO MUCH FUN!!!! Then you have to pedal out of the valley, which is a challenge, but was totally worth it, even as I thought I was going to have a coronary getting back to the loop head. I will make the trip back to ride it again!
Note: the trails are directional by day, and I imagine either direction has its better moments. Many thanks to the trail authority that built/maintains this trail!"
Tom Pitts
"Lamb Loop is probably the best trail we’ve found in Ohio thus far (we’re from out of state). It has good elevation, well placed berms, and a few rock gardens. Technical and flowy all in one. Great job to those who build and maintain this trail!"
Kristel Coronado
"Great trail for Ohio, just going to say of course I appreciate the trail crew putting in so much work on this. I just moved back here and the last I rode it was around 2016 - phenomenal improvements. Berms are fantastic, rock jumps are great - some rock features are in awkward spaces depending on the direction that day. The rock and dirt kickers on the sides of trails are easily the best jumps.
Biggest gripe on the trails is the table tops - they're just not properly planned and you're gonna case pretty hard if you commit. There's just not enough speed to hit all of them and clear them.
Overall a fantastic ride in a really convenient location. Park service needs to expand the parking lot as it's pretty popular."
Erik H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The original East Rim Trail to Observation Point is closed due to a rockfall. You'll need to access it via the East Mesa Trailhead. Many visitors opt for a shuttle service like East Zion Adventures to reach the trailhead efficiently. 
Parking at the East Mesa Trailhead can be limited, especially during peak season. Booking a shuttle service is often recommended to guarantee access and avoid parking hassles.
The direct East Rim Trail to Observation Point is closed. The alternative route starts at the East Mesa Trailhead, which requires driving on unpaved roads. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, or consider a shuttle.
The East Rim Trail system, known for mountain biking, is typically accessed from a main lot. Parking can become crowded, so arriving early is advised.
Public transport options directly to the East Rim Trailheads can be limited. Shuttle services, particularly for accessing Observation Point via East Mesa Trail, are the most convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Zion National Park has an entrance fee, accessing Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail may involve a separate fee for shuttle services or private land access, such as the $7 ticket mentioned by East Zion Adventures.
The East Rim Trail system itself doesn't have set operating hours, but it's subject to park hours and daylight. The East Mesa Trailhead access is generally available during daylight hours.
The East Rim Trail to Observation Point has been closed since 2019 due to a rockfall. The alternative route via East Mesa Trail is generally accessible year-round, weather permitting.
For the hike to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail, no specific wilderness permit is typically required, but park entrance fees apply. For mountain biking on the East Rim Trail system, no special permits are usually needed beyond general park access.
The cost involves the Zion National Park entrance fee. Additionally, if you use a shuttle service like East Zion Adventures, there's a fee, around $7, for their service to the trailhead.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail is considered moderate to strenuous, approximately 7 miles roundtrip with some elevation gain. The original East Rim Trail was a much longer, strenuous day hike.
Wear sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain, layers of clothing as temperatures can change, and sun protection. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed.
The hike to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail can be challenging for very young children due to its length and elevation. The Jolley Gulch overlook on the East Rim Trail has significant drop-offs, requiring caution with children.
The Lamb Loop is highly recommended for its flow, berms, rock gardens, and jumps. The East Rim Loop also offers a good challenge with moderate climbs and technical sections.
Yes, some advanced segments of the East Rim Trail are extremely rocky with steep drop-offs. Experienced riders should exercise caution, especially on punchy, rock-strewn climbs.
📸 📸 Photography
Observation Point offers stunning panoramic views of Zion Canyon, perfect for landscape photography. Jolley Gulch also provides dramatic overlooks with sheer drop-offs.
While the acoustics in Echo Canyon are remarkable, capturing them effectively on a phone camera can be difficult. The experience is best appreciated in person.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering lighting for landscape photography at Observation Point and Jolley Gulch.
Drone usage is restricted in Zion National Park, including areas around the East Rim Trail and Observation Point, to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. Always check current park regulations.
Yes, you may encounter wildlife. However, always maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals. Use a zoom lens for close-up shots to minimize disturbance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the East Zion Adventures shuttle to simplify the journey to the East Mesa Trailhead. This saves energy that can be better spent on the hike itself. For younger families, exploring less exposed areas of Zion or opting for shorter, flatter trails within the park might be a more enjoyable experience.
🚵 Experienced Mountain Bikers
Be prepared for challenging climbs and rocky terrain on advanced sections. A full-suspension mountain bike with good brakes and wide tires is highly recommended. While the trails are directional, always be aware of your surroundings and other trail users.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For those interested in unique acoustic phenomena, Echo Canyon offers a chance to experience natural echoes, though capturing this on camera can be challenging.
+1 Remember that drone usage is restricted in national parks, so focus on ground-level photography and videography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Observation Point
+1Fortunately, visitors can still reach this spectacular viewpoint by utilizing the East Mesa Trailhead. This alternative route is approximately 7 miles roundtrip and offers a more manageable, though still challenging, hike. Many visitors find it beneficial to book a shuttle service, such as East Zion Adventures, which can transport them directly to the East Mesa Trailhead, saving time and effort, especially if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle for the unpaved access road.
When planning your trip, be aware that while the East Mesa Trail is generally accessible year-round, weather conditions can impact trail safety. Always check the latest park alerts and trail conditions before your visit. The views from Observation Point are considered some of the best in Zion, making the effort to reach it well worthwhile.
+1East Rim Trail for Mountain Biking
For those seeking a more intense challenge, the advanced segments of the East Rim Trail present steep, rocky climbs and technical sections with significant drop-offs. While rewarding, these areas demand a high level of skill and caution. A true mountain bike with robust brakes, suspension, and wide tires is strongly recommended for navigating this terrain safely and effectively. Gravel bikes or hybrids are not suitable for these trails.
Trail directionality changes daily, so it's advisable to check local guidance to understand the designated riding direction for the day. This ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for both bikers and hikers, who are encouraged to travel in the opposite direction. The trail maintenance is frequently commended, with many appreciating the effort put into creating such a high-quality riding experience.
Jolley Gulch and East Zion Alternatives
East Zion Adventures promotes Jolley Gulch as a great addition to an East Zion itinerary, offering a less congested experience compared to the popular Zion Canyon. They even provide guided UTV adventures as a fun way to reach this viewpoint, catering to those who prefer an off-road experience over hiking.
This area highlights the broader appeal of exploring the periphery of national parks. While the main attractions draw the largest crowds, venturing slightly off the beaten path can lead to equally rewarding, and often more peaceful, discoveries. It's a reminder that there are multiple ways to appreciate the natural beauty of a region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit