Observation Point Hike in Zion via East Mesa Trail: What to Know Before You Go

Hiking to Observation Point ended up being one of my favorite hikes in Zion National Park. The view from the top is incredible, and I felt that it even surpassed the views I got from Angels Landing. 😲

From up there, you can see the entire Zion Canyon and get a clear view of Angels Landing from above. Seeing it from that perspective was one of the coolest parts of the hike, and it made Angels Landing look so small.

If you are planning a trip to Zion and want a hike with incredible views without having to worry about permits or chains, Observation Point is a great option. In this guide, I will go over what the Observation Point hike in Zion is like, how to get to the trailhead, and tips from my experience to help you plan your trip.

Important: Trail Access to Observation Point in Zion Has Changed

You used to be able to hike to Observation Point from Weeping Rock inside the park. After a rockfall in 2019, that trail closed and has not reopened.

Today, the only way to reach Observation Point is via the East Mesa Trail, which starts outside the main canyon. This means the park shuttle does not go there, so you will need to plan transportation ahead of time.

It takes a bit more effort to get to the trailhead, but it is completely worth it. We took the shuttle with East Zion Adventures, and I highly recommend it. You could also drive a 4×4 vehicle to the trailhead, but I wasn’t comfortable with that since we had a rental car.

Trail Stats for Observation Point Hike in Zion

• Distance: 7 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 702 feet
• Time: About 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Trailhead: East Mesa Trailhead
• All Trails Route

This hike is considered moderate mostly because of the distance. The elevation gain is gradual, especially compared to other hikes in Zion.

I never felt like it was too steep or difficult, so overall it’s a very manageable hike.

➡️ If you only have a couple of days in the park, you can pair the Observation Point hike with other shorter trails for a full itinerary, like I outline in my 2-Day Zion National Park Itinerary.

How to Get to the East Mesa Trailhead for Observation Point Hike in Zion

Getting to the East Mesa trailhead for the Observation Point hike in Zion is the most important part to plan ahead for.

The Zion Canyon Shuttle does not go to this trailhead, so you will need to arrange transportation yourself.

Option 1: Drive Yourself

You can drive to the trailhead, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a high-clearance 4×4.

The road has some rough spots, and since we were in a rental car, I didn’t want to risk any damage.

Parking is also very limited at the trailhead, so that’s another factor to consider if you plan to drive yourself.

Option 2: Take a Shuttle (What We Did)

We took a shuttle to the East Mesa Trailhead from East Zion Adventures, and I would highly recommend it. It costs about $7 per person (round-trip) and drops you off very close to the trailhead (within 0.5 miles).

East Zion Adventures is located at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, so you can park there for free before taking the shuttle to the trailhead.

Booking online was easy too. You just reserve a departure time, and you don’t need to schedule a return time. The shuttle will pick you up at the same location where you were dropped off and they come by every half hour.

I booked the shuttle online two days in advance and had no trouble getting the time slot we wanted, which was 9:30 AM. We started the day at Zion Canyon Overlook for sunrise and then drove about 30 minutes to East Zion Adventures at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort to catch the shuttle to the Observation Point trailhead.

➡️ If you’re planning a road trip, it’s easy to combine Antelope Canyon and Zion. I go over the full route and logistics in my Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park post.

What to Expect on the Observation Point Hike in Zion

This hike is pretty different from most of the trails we did in Zion. Instead of climbing up through the canyon, you spend most of the hike walking across a mesa, so you don’t get big views right away.

The trail starts in a forested area, and the path is wide and easy to follow. At the beginning, it feels more like a long walk than a typical Zion hike. The terrain is mostly flat with small elevation changes.

As you go on, the trail gradually starts to gain elevation. There are a few small openings along the way where you can see parts of the canyon, but most of the hike keeps you surrounded by trees.

Toward the end, the trees begin to thin out, and the trail opens up. That’s when you reach Observation Point and finally get the full view.

I honestly think it’s one of the best views in Zion National Park. I also hiked Angels Landing, and while that was a more thrilling hike, the views from Observation Point beat it by far for me.

At the top, a couple had binoculars and let us use them. We could see people hiking Angels Landing, which looked tiny from up there. It was a really cool perspective, especially because we had hiked Angels Landing earlier in the trip.

➡️ If you’re curious how Observation Point compares to the Angels Landing hike, I wrote a full guide on my experience hiking Angels Landing!

The View from Observation Point Hike in Zion

The view at the top is what makes this hike worth it.

You’re standing high above Zion Canyon, looking straight down at everything below.

One thing I really liked is how much space there is at the top. Compared to Angels Landing, it feels a lot more open and less crowded.

Personally, I liked this view more than Angels Landing due to its higher vantage point and the ability to see Angels Landing from above.

How Difficult Is the Observation Point Hike in Zion?

I would rate this hike as moderate. The main challenge is the distance rather than the terrain.

The trail is not technical, there are no steep drop-offs, and the elevation gain is gradual. It never felt overly steep or difficult for me.

I think most people who are reasonably active can complete it without feeling too exhausted, though you may want to take short breaks along the way.

If you’re comfortable hiking about 7 miles, this is a very doable hike and a great option for anyone who wants incredible views without the steep drop-offs or permit requirements of Angels Landing.

➡️ For another iconic Zion hike, consider the Narrows and read about my experience in my Hiking the Narrows in October post!

Observation Point vs Angels Landing

If you’re trying to decide between hiking Observation Point or Angels Landing while in Zion, here is how they compare from someone who has done both hikes:

Observation Point

• No permit required, so it’s easier to plan on short notice
• Less crowded, especially compared to Angels Landing
• Less intimidating, with no chains or exposed drop-offs
• Higher viewpoint, giving you a full view of the canyon and the ability to see Angels Landing from above

Angels Landing

• Permit required through the park’s lottery system, which can limit flexibility and ability to do it all together
• Chains and exposure, making parts of the trail feel more dangerous and challenging
• More of an adrenaline-type hike, appealing if you enjoy thrill-seeking hikes

Both hikes are amazing and worth doing if you can, but Observation Point is the easier option since no permit is required, and I do think the views at the top beat Angels Landing.

You get incredible views without the stress or exposure, making it perfect if you want a scenic hike without the crowds or technical challenges of Angels Landing.

Angels Landing is 100% worth doing if you get the permit because it was such a fun adrenaline-filled hike and the views are still amazing. Make sure to read about my experience hiking Angels Landing!

Best Time to Hike Observation Point in Zion

The best times to hike Observation Point are spring and fall when the temperatures are cooler and the weather is more comfortable. We visited Zion in October and had perfect weather. It was warm but not too hot, and there was a good amount of shade available along the trail.

If you are visiting in the summer, I would recommend starting early in the day to avoid the heat. The heat in Zion can get very intense and should be taken seriously. Make sure to dress appropriately, use sun protection, and bring plenty of water.

We started the day with sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook and then drove about 30 minutes to East Zion Adventures to catch the 9:30 AM shuttle to the trailhead. That timing worked really well. The morning temperatures on the trail were comfortable, and we had plenty of time to enjoy the views at the top before it got too hot or crowded.

What to Pack for the Observation Point Hike in Zion

Observation Point is a longer hike, so it’s important to come prepared.

Here is what I recommend bringing with you:

• Plenty of water: Even though there are shaded sections, most of the hike is exposed, and you will want enough water to stay hydrated for the entire 7 miles.
• Snacks: I usually stick to carb-heavy snacks on hikes because they are easy to eat on the trail and give you quick energy. My favorite hiking snacks are anything from Bobos, and I also like bringing beef jerky sticks like Chomps for added protein.
• Good hiking shoes: I used hiking boots that required no break-in time, and they worked perfectly on the trail. Shoes with good grip and ankle support are ideal. I love these Columbia hiking boots!
• Sunscreen and a hat: Much of the trail is open, and you will be in the sun for most of the hike, so make sure to protect your skin.
• Optional gear: Sunglasses, a light jacket, or trekking poles can make the hike more comfortable for you depending on the season.

It’s also a good idea to download offline maps on Google Maps. We had no service while driving to East Zion Adventures at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort to catch the shuttle, and having offline maps made navigation easy.

➡️ If you’re also visiting Zion in October, I recommend reading my what to wear in Zion in October blog post to see everything I packed and used!

Tips for Hiking Observation Point in Zion

This is a straightforward hike, but a little planning makes the day much easier.

• Take the shuttle instead of driving (unless you have a 4×4): The road to the East Mesa Trailhead can be rough. If you’re in a rental car, it’s not worth the risk in my opinion. I would take the East Zion Adventures shuttle to the East Mesa trailhead. We booked it 2 days in advance.
• Start earlier if possible: Especially in summer, this helps you avoid hiking in the heat on the way back.
• Download Google offline maps and AllTrails route before you go: There is little to no service near the trailhead, so don’t rely on cell service.
• Don’t expect views right away: Most of the trail is through trees, so you won’t see much at first. The big payoff comes at the end, and it’s definitely worth it.
• Bring more water than you think you need: Seven miles adds up, even with mild elevation! It’s always better to be over prepared. 🙂
• Wear proper shoes: The trail isn’t technical, but it’s still a good idea to wear proper hiking shoes. My favorite ones are these Columbia hiking boots!
• Pair this with a smaller hike since it takes most of your day and energy: We combined Observation Point with sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook, and it worked really well. The overlook is less than 1 mile round trip, so we were able to do it before our 9:30 AM shuttle to the Observation Point trailhead. It took us 30 minutes to drive from Zion Canyon Overlook to East Zion Adventures which is located at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.

➡️ We spent five days exploring Zion, and Observation Point was a favorite of mine. See how it fits into a full schedule in my 5-Day Zion National Park itinerary!

Final Thoughts: Is the Observation Point Hike in Zion Worth It?

Yes, the Observation Point hike in Zion is worth it.

The hike is manageable, and the views from the top are some of the best in Zion. You can see the entire canyon and even get a bird’s-eye view of Angels Landing.

If you want a great viewpoint without the crowds or permit requirements of Angels Landing, the Observation Point hike is a great choice that I highly recommend!

Be sure to read my other blog posts about my trip to Zion National Park!

• 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park for Every Type of Hiker
• Hiking the Narrows in October: My Experience & Tips
• Bryce Canyon vs. Zion National Park Comparison [Includes Sample Itinerary]
• The Ultimate Travel Guide on Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park
• The Top 10 Best Places for Glamping Near Zion National Park
• My Experience Hiking Angels Landing + Tips to Prepare
• A 5-Day Zion National Park Itinerary: The Best of Zion
• 2 Days in Zion National Park: Itinerary & Must-Know Tips
• What to Wear in Zion in October: My Full Packing List and Tips

FAQ: Observation Point Hike in Zion

Do you need a permit for the Observation Point hike in Zion?

No, you do not need a permit to hike to Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail.

This is one of the biggest advantages over Angels Landing, where a permit is required and can be hard to get.

Is Observation Point harder than Angels Landing?

No Observation Point is not harder than Angels Landing. Observation Point is longer, but much less challenging overall.

Angels Landing includes chains, steep drop-offs, and exposure. Observation Point is non-technical with gradual elevation gain and no dangerous sections.

Can you drive to the Observation Point East Mesa trailhead?

Yes, you can drive to the East Mesa trailhead but only if you have a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle.

The road conditions can be rough and unpredictable. If you’re driving a standard car, taking the East Zion Adventures shuttle is the better option and the way we did it.

How long does the Observation Point hike take?

Most people complete the hike in about 3 hours round trip. It is around 7 miles out & back.

I would plan closer to 3–4 hours so you have time to take breaks and enjoy the view at the top.

If you’re taking the East Zion Adventures shuttle to the East Mesa trailhead, keep in mind that it will pick you up at the same location it dropped you off. It comes every 30 minutes.

Is the Observation Point hike crowded?

It’s much less crowded than hikes inside Zion Canyon due to the extra effort to get there.

When we hiked it, the trail was mostly quiet, but there were enough people around to feel comfortable if you don’t like completely empty trails like me.

Is there shade on the Observation Point trail?

Yes, there is some shade, especially during the first half of the trail. Much of the hike goes through a forested mesa, so you will get more shade than on many other hikes in Zion.

The final stretch near Observation Point is more exposed, so be prepared for sun in that section.

What is the hardest part of the Observation Point hike in Zion?

The distance was the most challenging part for me.

The trail itself is not technical, but 7 miles can still feel long, especially on the return journey back.