Many would argue that the best hike in Zion National Park would be The Narrows, or the precipitous Angels Landing. But the best viewpoint (Observation Point), actually starts from a lesser known trail which begins outside the park. East Mesa Trail to Observation Point is what many consider, the best hike in Zion National Park.
Basic Information from the NPS:
East Mesa Trail to Observation Point
https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/east-rim-wilderness-trail-descriptions.htm
Trailhead Location: The East Mesa Trailhead is only accessible by high-clearance / 4-wheel-drive dirt roads off the North Fork Road. Roads can be extremely muddy and inaccessible in the winter, spring, and after rainstorms. Please be respectful of private property near the East Mesa Trailhead.
⚠️ Parking in designated spaces only. Illegally parked vehicles will be cited or towed at the vehicle owners expense.
Distance (roundtrip): 6 miles (9.6 km) to the East Rim Trail and back. 6.8 miles (11 km) to Observation Point and back.
Elevation Change: 300 ft / 90 m to East Rim Trail or Observation Point and back.
Estimated Hiking Time: 3 hours to Observation Point and back.
Description: Hike through ponderosa and pinyon/juniper forest, with brief views into the surrounding canyons, before reaching the East Rim Trail. Continue on the East Rim Trail for another 0.4 miles to Observation Point
Trail begins here!
A few more notes:
Trailhead is outside the eastern entrance of the park. You don’t have to pay the National Park fee to do this hike.
We drove in a minivan to the trailhead. This will only work if the trail is dry and not muddy, wet or snowy!
The trail itself is pretty uneventful, but stick around for the huge finale when you reach Observation point! There are a few beautiful viewpoints just before it, but DON’T turn around until you reach the finish at Observation point!
Happy hiking!
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