Observation Point

The trail to Observation Point from East Mesa is a bit over three miles each way and includes some of the finest views in Zion National Park. The route is relatively flat, and elevation gain is only 700 feet in return for a towering 6,500-foot panoramic view over Zion below. The outlook at Observation Point stands above Angels Landing and many of the most famous landmarks in Zion. Views from the trail include Mystery Canyon, the ponderosa pine forest, and, of course, the breathtaking view at the end of the trail: Observation Point itself.

The trail is easy to moderate, with low elevation gain. The trail can be best described as rocky or sandy. A great deal of the path goes through a forest but has some exposed edges that one should be aware of.

The East Mesa trailhead lies on the east border of Zion National Park. There is a small, highly limited parking lot at the trailhead, requiring high clearance in most road conditions. East Zion Adventure Shuttles, a service of Zion Ponderosa, is the best solution for preserving the area and access to the trail. The drive time from Ponderosa to the trailhead is about 10 minutes. The shuttle requires a small fee and transportation is available throughout the day.

The best time to hike this area of Utah is in the Spring and Fall but can be accessed all year, weather permitting. Summers in this area can be very hot and shade on this trail can be sparse. No matter what time of year, sun protection and enough water are a necessity. Winter may include snowshoeing, and be cautious of ice or snow that make trail conditions slick. Zion Ponderosa shuttles may drop-off lower in winter depending on road conditions and accessibility.