East Mesa Trail to East Rim Trail and Observation Point

Route Description for East Mesa Trail to East Rim Trail and Observation Point

The East Mesa Trail to Observation Point and the East Rim Trail is a great, moderately strenuous hike that takes you past some amazing scenery. This trail has a good amount of elevation, and is fairly exposed to the sun so bring good sun protection and lots of water. The views from the Observation Point overlook are among the best in Zion, so don’t forget the camera!

From the East Mesa Trailhead, follow the off-road trail westward into the forest. After approximately 3.2 km, you will see a trail branching off to the north, stay left. 1.6 km later the trail will divide—stay right at this junction to continue a short 0.5 km to the Observation Point overlook. At the overlook, take a rest and enjoy the panoramic views of the main canyon below. To continue on to the East Rim trail, backtrack to the junction and take the left-hand path. Follow the trail down into Echo Canyon. Approximately 2.1 km past the junction, you will reach the bottom of Echo Canyon and the start of the East Rim Trail. This is the turn-around point for this hike.

If you are not ready to go home, the East Rim trail goes on for many more miles and connects in with other trails in the area; but if you are done for the day, turn around and head back up along the East Mesa Trail to the parking lot.