Destination Peak Trail

Rewarding summit hike into seldom explored and rarely seen parts of East Zion. Note, significant route-finding is required above the wash, as cairns are few and far between (and not always "correct"). Also, a couple locals recommended an ascent from the main wash that begins just past the fork noted in this route - go a couple minutes beyond the tree-marked fork noted in this route and you'll see a very sandy wash, maybe 3'-4' wide, on your right. This will lead you up to the bottom of the bowl, from whence you can link up with the route. This ascent avoids the class 4 scramble. Be mindful of cryptobiotic soil. Driving East on Highway 9 toward Mt. Carmel Junction is a tremendously rewarding experience. Twists and turns lead to elevation gains, which in turn lead to increasingly amazing views. Arches, slot canyons, hikers, and climbers all seem to converge at every turn where adventure awaits for everyone. Just before you enter the long 1.1 mile Zion Tunnel on the right hand side of the road is a series of cliffs popular to climbers. Cars line the wide switchback turns during Spring as these graceful athletes make their ascent on beautiful cliffs. At the top of such a climb is a part of Zion few people ever have the opportunity to see, it is called Hepworth Canyon. Existing behind Bridge Mountain and behind the sandstone ridges along Gifford Canyon; Hepworth Canyon is a no man's land which remains largely hidden. As your car passes into the first turn of the tunnel you are actually directly beneath a large valley and spillway which empties the drainage from Hepworth Canyon into Pine Creek.