Canyon Overlook
Table of contents
Contouring the famous Zion – Mount Carmel Tunnel, the Canyon Overlook trail yields spectacular views of both the Zion and Pine Creek Canyons. It's so impressive that we added this hike to our list of the best hikes in the USA. A few stunning feats of engineering have also reduced the amount of climbing that would normally be required and makes this path very accessible for almost all skill levels.
Route Description for Canyon Overlook
The trailhead is directly opposite the small parking lot. Right from the start, you will gain all the elevation this hike requires in the form of two narrow switchbacks. Here you will also see how meticulously man-made this trail is. The park service has blasted out steps in the rock, as well as installed a sturdy metal railing. Unlike Angel’s Landing, everyone should be comfortable on this hike!
Continuing along the path you will start veering right and away from the roadway. Again, blasting has been done to create a path along a nearly sheer vertical slick rock section! There is, yet again, a railing here to please everyone.
You will contour around this cliff band for just over 0.8 km before reaching your destination. Along the way you will get fantastic views of the East Temple up above you. Finally, though, you will crest a final ridge and be given stunning panoramic views of the canyons in front of you.
Bridge Mountain and Mount Spry occupy the closer scenery (on the left and right respectively). However looking directly across the valley you will be able to make out the Court of the Patriarchs, as well as the looming West Temple! A small sign at the end of the trail identifies peak names for you.
Find other spectacular hikes in Zion:
Insider Hints for Canyon Overlook
- here is usually tons of congestion along Utah 9, especially at the tunnel since they only allow one-way traffic. Try and do this hike on the day you are leaving Springdale, if you are heading east or north!
Getting to the Canyon Overlook Trailhead
From Springdale, enter the park and continue along Utah 9 East for 11.3 km. Do not turn left into Zion Canyon. You will go through the famous Zion - Mount Carmel Tunnel, the longest vehicle tunnel in the park system. Just after you pass the tunnel the trailhead parking lot will be on your right, so keep your eyes up! Otherwise you can park in one of the few pullouts along the road and walk back to the trailhead. If you are coming from the East Entrance, head along the windy Utah 9 West for 9.7 km and find the trailhead parking lot on your left, just before the tunnel.
Route Information
When to do:
Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat
Backcountry Campsites:
None
Toilets:
At Visitors Centre, museum and Canyon Junction
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Canyon Overlook Elevation Graph
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