Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

This trail offers some of the most breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. The trail itself short and not steep. The trailhead is a collection of stone steps that ascend the stone ridge directly above north side of road, across the street from the parking lot. The trail passes through shaded alcoves with ferns and trees, across a planked boardwalk and through a moist grotto, and over bare slick rock, wandering its way to edge of impressive cliff overlook. The expanse of Zion Canyon is open before Overlook, with its monumental formations visible on either side of canyon. You can see the road as it switchbacks below the west end of the Mount Carmel Tunnel. The West Temple, Towers of the Virgins, Streaked Wall, and Beehives all make up part of this tremendous view. The East Temple rises directly above the Overlook, towering more than 2,200 ft above the canyon floor. The Great Arch lies recessed into the cliff-face below the Overlook, carving its way through eons into solid sandstone. This trail can be reached by following Highway 9, to east entrance of Mount Carmel Tunnel, directly below the East Temple Saddle. Parking area on south side, and trailhead is across street, on north side. Note you cannot make a left turn into the parking lot if traveling from the east, but there is parking along the road about a quarter mile before you reach the parking lot. This hike is one of Zion's highlights, don't miss it!