Canyon Overlook Trail at Zion National Park

Canyon Overlook 1

Canyon Overlook 2

Canyon Overlook 3

Canyon Overlook 4

Canyon Overlook 5

Canyon Overlook 6

Canyon Overlook 7

Canyon Overlook 8

Canyon Overlook 9

Canyon Overlook 10

Canyon Overlook 11

Canyon Overlook 12

Canyon Overlook 13

Canyon Overlook 14

Canyon Overlook 15

Canyon Overlook 16

Canyon Overlook 17

Canyon Overlook 18

Canyon Overlook 19

Canyon Overlook 20

Canyon Overlook 21

Canyon Overlook 22

Canyon Overlook 23

Canyon Overlook 24

Canyon Overlook 25

Canyon Overlook 26

Canyon Overlook 27

Canyon Overlook 28

Canyon Overlook 29

Canyon Overlook 30

Canyon Overlook 31

Canyon Overlook 32

Canyon Overlook 33

Canyon Overlook 34

Location: Zion National Park, Utah

Length: 1 mile roundtrip

GPS coordinates: N37 12.798 W112 56.440

If you have never been to Zion National Park and during your first limit you are limited in time and cannot see the whole national park, that Canyon Overlook Trail is just a must visit for you!

This short trail with the length of approximately 1 mile (roundtrip) will take you only about one hour to hike it, but it will endow you with inexpressible impressions and unforgettable memories.

It is quite easy to find its trailhead if you follow the Hwy 9 as it is located right after the eastern entrance of the Zion-Mt.Carmel Tunnel. The major parking area is on the southern side of the road, and when you cross the road you’ll find the Canyon Overlook Trailhead right by the ranger booth.

The trail itself is quite easy with the elevation gain of a little bit more than 150 feet, most of which is gained while climbing the steps straight after the trailhead. But if you are hiking with the kids be careful as there are quite narrow places of the trail with no railing, as well as several drop-offs.

Further, meandering along the Pine Creek Canyon, the trail will take you across the planked boardwalk, passing huge stone pillars, running by a couple of overhangs. The biggest overhang, forming quite a large alcove, is a favourite resting place for tired hikers and playing place for the kids, providing them with coolness and shade.

While following the trail keep your eye open for the stunning views surrounding you. But even the amazing views which you will admire while your stroll along the trail will not prepare you for the breathtaking scenery provided by Canyon Overlook. When you reach this incredible vantage point you will be able to admire the beauty of Zion Canyon. East Temple, Bridge Mountain (which is the highest peak seen at the left part of the canyon) as well as Towers of the Virgin, Bridge Mountain, West Temple, Streaked Wall will delight your eyes while staying at the Overlook.

Canyon Overlook itself is located above the Great Arch, and long time ago actually the trail leading to it was named The Great Arch Trail, but it was decided to rename it as you cannot see the Great Arch while hiking the trail.

Photo: Roman Khomlyak

Photo Editing: Juliana Voitsikhovska

Information: Svetlana Baranova/Maryna Petrova