Observation Point Hike Review: Zion National Park, Utah

My husband and I were visiting Zion National Park with the intention of hiking Angel’s Landing and the Narrows. Unfortunately, we couldn’t do either – Angels Landing trail was wiped out from a landslide and thunderstorms in the forecast made it too dangerous to be hiking the Narrows.

So we went for the Observation Point – a well-marked trail that will take you to the highest point in Zion National Park. This is everything you’d want in a Zion National Park hike. It provided an excellent workout, varied scenery, and a scenic reward at the end.

Observation Point in Zion National Park Trail information:

Observation Point Trail length: 8 miles round trip

Trailhead Location: Apparently, this hike has two different trailheads. I wasn’t aware of that when we did the hike – we took the shuttle bus to the Weeping Rock trail and hiked from there. Alternatively, you can drive on a old Jeep trail to get to the East Mesa trailhead location.

Trail surface:
This is a well-established, well-marked trail. It’s also very popular, especially if other trails are closed. The surface is dirt.

There are no crazy steep drop offs, rock scrambling, sketchy sections or chains for you to hang on to. It’s simply a heart-pumping hike!

Observation Point Trail Crowds:
On a normal day, the Observation Point hike is well-trafficked, but not crowded. In other words, you’ll see people on the trail, but you won’t be shoulder-to-shoulder with them. However, when we went, because of many popular trail closures in Zion, this hike was very crowded. We never found ourselves alone on the trail, despite the 6:30am start time on a weekday.

When we were on our way back, the trail was getting extremely crowded – especially those going uphill. We were constantly squeezing by other groups. The crowds only got worse the closer we got to the trailhead – teenagers Bluetooth speakers, crying children, etc – anyone and everyone was on this trail. Though, keep in mind that this is an intense, 8 mile RT hike, and I don’t think many of those we passed at the bottom of the hike actually made it up to the top – many looked completely unprepared. I’m thinking that lots of them will bail out and head back down after a few of the switchbacks.

Bring rain gear in case of afternoon thunderstorms. Personally, I would not do this hike in the rain.

Preparing for Observation Point Hike:
Bring a small backpack with snacks and PLENTY of water, especially if you are attempting this in the summer. We hiked in mid-July – we started the hike at 6:30am to avoid mid-day heat. When you get to the top, you’ll definitely want to chow down on some snacks!

Sunscreen and hats are a must! With the exception of the slot canyon, you’re exposed nearly the entire way.

Wear hiking boots or trail runners. While you’re not doing any rock scrambling on this hike, you will want that extra grip, especially in the slot canyon where some of the rock can be slick.

Finally, use the restroom at the Weeping Wall trailhead before you head out. You won’t find much cover along the trail, until you get to the top!

The hike:
We started the hike at 6:30 am so we got the “worst” (uphill) part done in the cool morning temps. The trail starts off with a lot of intense switchbacks, as you make your way up from the valley floor. This will get your heart pumping, especially if you’re not used to the altitude!

The next section is the beautiful slot canyon section – Echo Canyon. The slick sandstone walls will tower above you as you make your way through the canyon. Absolutely stunning scenery – I took way too many pictures on this section of the trail!

After the slot canyon, you’ll make your way up the mountain again, getting that heart rate pumping! If you’re afraid of heights, this could be the scariest part of the hike.

Finally, the last section of the hike levels off at the top and you can give your lungs a break while you make your way to your final destination – Observation Point! Note: This final stretch is where you’ll want to go to the bathroom, if needed. It’s the only spot that provides vegetation for cover while you do your business!

The view from the top is spectacular. From here, you can look down upon the entire valley, including Angels Landing!

Enjoy a snack, chug down some water, relax and then head back down – just be glad it’s all downhill from here!

Bottom Line – Observation Point Hike Pros and Cons
Pros:
It’s a great workout!
Varied scenery keeps you motivated
You can claim that you’ve been to Zion National Park’s highest point

Cons:
If you’re not in shape, it’s going to be a tough hike
Can be crowded
Not much shade, outside of the canyon