Loading Page...

Can you drive to observation point in Zion National Park?

Can you drive to Zion Observation Point? Observation Point can only be reached on foot. The two main trails to Observation Point are from the Weeping Rock Trailhead and the East Mesa Trailhead.



People Also Ask

Observation Point offers marquee views of Zion Canyon, similar to what you might see from the rim of the Grand Canyon. And most people find this hike from the East Mesa Trail relatively easy and doable. The hike is in the east section of the park, away from the crowds.

MORE DETAILS

The important thing to know is that you can't drive private vehicles into Zion National Park during “shuttle season” which is March 11 through November 26 (in 2023). On these dates, you must ride the free Zion Canyon Line Shuttle from the Visitor Center.

MORE DETAILS

Angels Landing is more of destination hike for thrill seekers. Everyone seems to be in a mad rush to get to the top, to be able to say that they did it. Observation Point is more of an excursion for those who like to take their time and enjoy the outdoors.

MORE DETAILS

There are three ways you can reach the trailhead: Take the Zion park shuttle bus to stop #5 – Zion Lodge. Drive your own car to the designated Emerald Pools Trail parking lot. Hike to the trail from either the South via Sand Bench Trail or from the North via Kayenta Trail.

MORE DETAILS

Route 9 is a beautiful scenic byway. It is a great alternative to taking the highway (rt 15) and takes you through Mt Zion Park.

MORE DETAILS

However, if it is your first visit to Zion National Park, we would suggest visiting from the southern entrance. This will give you direct access to the main visitor's center, shuttles, and Zion Canyon which features Zion's most popular hikes, such as Angel's Landing and the Narrows.

MORE DETAILS

Zion National Park has three entrances, the South Entrance, East Entrance, and Kolob Canyons Entrance. As far as which one is best, really depends on where you want to go in Zion, but by far the most popular entrance is the South Entrance.

MORE DETAILS

There have been about 17 confirmed deaths on the Angels Landing hike, as at December 2022, compared to over 400 people who died on Mount Rainier and about 60 people on Yosemite's Half Dome.

MORE DETAILS

The Narrows stretches for 16 miles but that's if you hike top-down. Most people hike between 2-6 hours on the Narrows hike when starting at the bottom (~6 miles round trip). Since the Narrows hike is an in-and-out trail, whatever mileage and time you put in hiking in, you have to do out.

MORE DETAILS

Zion Hikes From the Visitor Center While the Watchman Trail has you winding through the canyons to the final panoramic viewpoint of lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale. Since these trails are not along the Scenic Drive, you don't need to take the Zion shuttle to hike the Pa'rus Trail or Watchman Trail.

MORE DETAILS

Due to Zion's close proximity to some big cites, it's a great weekend destination. It's only logical that that Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday will be busier than other days. Especially during peak travel seasons of spring and summer. To help avoid crowds in Zion National Park visit mid-week.

MORE DETAILS

Visitor Parking Information Visitors to Springdale should park in one of the paid public parking locations distributed throughout Town. Paid public parking in Springdale is available in the following locations: Zone A - Zion National Park entrance to Shuttle Stop #4. Zone B – Sundance Road to Anasazi Way.

MORE DETAILS

The entire hike is a beauty, but it is challenging. At 8 miles long and with 2300 feet of climbing, it is a steady climb to that final viewpoint. This is a classic Zion trail and well worth your time and effort, especially if you want views out over Angels Landing and the rest of Zion National Park.

MORE DETAILS

With moderate elevation gain and a relatively limited mileage, the Angels Landing hike is in some ways beginner friendly. However, the Chains Section will be too intimidating for most beginners or anyone who struggles with vertigo or a fear of heights.

MORE DETAILS

While I've done a couple longer hikes, I've also enjoyed all these non-hiking things, too!
  1. Go for a short walk. ...
  2. Rent a bike and ride Zion Canyon. ...
  3. Drive the Mount Carmel Highway. ...
  4. Drive the scenic drive at Kolob Canyons. ...
  5. See Zion from a helicopter.


MORE DETAILS

You do not need a permit or reservation to visit most areas in Zion Canyon. You do not need a permit or reservation to ride a park shuttle. You do not need a permit or reservation to enter the park.

MORE DETAILS

Top ways to experience Zion Shuttle and nearby attractions. 92% of travelers recommend this experience. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 98% of travelers recommend this experience.

MORE DETAILS