East Rim Trail Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for East Rim Trail
Start along the wide, mostly flat trail as it begins from the far side of the parking lot. You will start to slowly gain elevation as the trail winds along the width of the wide canyon. Soon the trail will start to veer right slightly and the grade will increase.
As you enter the canyon you will distance yourself from Clear Creek running bellow you. Ponderosa Pine’s litter most of your surroundings you continue along the trail. Just over halfway through the hike you will switchback to the left and continue to climb. Next you will crest a small ridge, contour around and start to descend slightly.
Seemingly out of nowhere you will find yourself beside a gurgling creek. If you proceed to the edge of the cliff you will see the impressive Jolly Gulch. This extremely steep, deep and narrow canyon drops away from your feet and there is no handrail guarding you from going right up to the edge. The Jolly Gulch Creek runs right off the edge, creating a seasonal waterfall!
For most, the Gulch is a fantastic turnaround point, however you can continue along the trail for as long as you wish. From the vantage point at the end of the hike you’ll be able to see all the way across the valley towards Chalkboard Mesa, as well as the plethora of other unnamed mountains and domes. The grey and red slick rock is truly stunning, and the ambiance of the large trees is calming and secluded.
Find other spectacular hikes in Zion:
Insider Hints for East Rim Trail
- Another great turnaround point is Stave Springs, 8 km from the beginning of the trail. This would be a grade 3 hike.
Getting to the East Rim Trail Trailhead
From Springdale enter the park and continue along Utah 9 East. 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. Follow this road until just before you reach the East Entrance, turning left towards the ambiguous “trailhead” sign. If you coming from the East Entrance, enter the park and almost immediately turn right towards the ambiguous “trailhead” sign. Follow this road past “Private Residence” signs and find the small dirt parking lot at its end.Route Information for East Rim Trail
When to do:
Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat
Backcountry Campsites:
Yes, see visitors centre
Toilets:
At East Entrance near trailhead
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low to Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
East Rim Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for East Rim Trail
Beautiful and not too difficult a hike. Absolutely stunning and a must do.
- Trip Length
- 01:45
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Fairly easy hike with amazing views. fresh air and nature is what you find here, we love it.
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Great hike to do if you want to avoid the crowd. It's not as magical as Canyon Overlook, but it's still worth doing.
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Nice family-friendly hike. Overall it was short and easy. I highly recommend it.
- Technical Difficulty
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Easy trail. East Rim is a fantastic hike. However, it would be better to be more cautious while passing the edge of the cliff.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Great hike to explore. There were some mild inclines, but they are manageable. Bring lots of water, especially if you plan to start during the late afternoon.
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East Rim Hike was nice, good views, I did not have many people around me and the weather was great.
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Wow this is fun! It felt great to hike here.
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East rim trail was good to finish the day with. Good views and you don't spend too much effort on it.
- Trip Length
- 01:50
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Nice views, fewer people, really enjoyed it.
- Trip Length
- 01:45
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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