Summary:
An exciting trail that climbs steeply to the top of a promontory overlooking Zion Canyon, with long sheer drops on three sides.

The trail was constructed in 1926, and the difficulties faced are evident as you reach ‘Walters Wiggles’, 21 switchbacks cut into the rock. The reward on reaching the top are the wonderful views from Scout Lookout – below, the Virgin River snakes its way through the green valley floor surrounded by a line of immense mountainous cliffs.

At the trail junction proceed right (south). There is still another 0.5 mile and 500 ft of climb to the top of Angels Landing. The trail is now much steeper and more rugged, and involves scrambling and climbing up the cliff. In places the trail is extremely narrow, with sheer drops on each side. At one point a narrow ledge takes you across a 1500 ft vertical drop to the canyon floor. Although chains have been fixed for safety, it is not suitable if you are afraid of heights.

This exciting climb leads to the summit of Angels Landing, a promontory jutting out into Zion Canyon with sheer 1,500 ft drops on each side. The views of the Canyon from all directions are simply spectacular.

Be aware that this trail is popular, and bottlenecks can occur on the steep climb along the chains as it is possible for only one person to pass at a time. We would recommend starting this hike very early in the morning to enjoy it without the crowds.

Directions: I-15 exit 27, eight miles on route 17, then route 9 through Virgin and Rockville to Springdale, just outside the south entrance of Zion National Park.

Trailhead: From the visitor center, take the shuttle bus through Zion Canyon to the stop at Grotto picnic area.

Length: 5 miles / 8.0 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: 1,488 ft / 454 m

Duration: 4 hours

Trail Condition: Clearly defined. Final climb is very steep with some scrambling.

Features: Stunning views from a high cliff over Zion Canyon.

Climate: Extremely hot in summer.

Accommodation: Plenty of motels and a private campground in Springdale. Inside the Park, two campgrounds just beyond the south entrance, and Zion Lodge along the Zion Canyon scenic drive.

Trail Notes: Last part of the trail climbs a steep, narrow ridge with long drop-offs. Chains have been fixed in places, but take care if fearful of heights.

Summary:
A steep trail carved into a cliff next to the Great White Throne, an imposing feature of Zion Canyon.

After 0.6 mile you reach a junction. The strenuous trail to Observation Point bears left, but you turn right onto yet more switchbacks climbing between Cable Mountain and the Great White Throne.

The trail is carved into the cliff, with long drop-offs in places. If you are afraid of heights, the sight of the narrow trail hugging the cliff face may be enough to persuade you to turn back!

In 0.5 mile you reach the mouth of Hidden Canyon, a long, narrow gully strewn with boulders. The trail ends at the entrance of this side canyon, but you can scramble beyond the trail for another 0.5 mile or so.

Observation Point
To reach this magnificent viewpoint atop East Mesa involves a strenuous climb: the ascent from the Weeping Rock trailhead is 2,148 ft/655 m, and it will take around six hours for the 8 mile/12.8 km return trip. For this reason, we prefer to include it as part of the stunning East Rim Trail, as this way there is only an additional climb of 850 ft/259 m. And what a climb it is, with constant, breathtaking views of Echo and Zion Canyons, including the Great White Throne, Cable Mountain and Angels Landing.

Directions: I-15 exit 27, eight miles on Route 17, then Route 9 through Virgin and Rockville to Springdale and the south entrance of the Park. The visitor center is just beyond the south entrance station.

Trailhead: Weeping Rock. From the visitor center, take one of the free, frequent shuttle buses through Zion Canyon to the stop at Weeping Rock.

Length: 2.2 miles / 3.5 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: 850 ft / 259 m

Duration: 2 hours

Trail Condition: Easy to follow. Steep switchbacks with long drop-offs in places.

Features: Sandstone cliffs, canyon views.

Climate: Extremely hot in summer.

Accommodation: Plenty of motels and a private campground in Springdale. Inside the Park, two campgrounds just beyond the south entrance, and Zion Lodge along the scenic drive.

Trail Notes: Part of the trail consists of a narrow path cut into the sheer cliff-face, with long drop-offs – not for those afraid of heights.