Observation Point Zion via the East Mesa Trail

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The Observation Point Zion hike is easily one of the most underrated hikes in Zion National Park, and in my opinion, it offers one of the best views in the entire park.

While most people head straight for Angels Landing, Observations Point sits even higher above Zion Canyon and delivers a more expansive, jaw-dropping perspective – without the permits, chains, or crowds.

On my recent visit to Zion National Park, we were finally able to hike Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail, and it was everything I wanted it to be. The trail itself is relatively mellow (minus the distance), but the payoff at the end? Worth it.

You’re standing high above Angels Landing, looking straight down into the canyon. If you’re planning a trip to Zion and want a hike that delivers epic views without the chaos, this hike in Zion needs to be at the top of your list.

In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know before embarking on this trail, including trailhead options, what to expect, how long it takes, and tips to make the most of your hike.

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Observation Point Zion Quick Facts

🥾 Distance: 7.2 miles round trip (East Mesa route)
💪 Difficulty: Moderate
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 700-800 feet
⏱️ Time: 2.5-4 hours
📍 Trailhead: East Mesa or Stave Spring
🎟️ Permit Required: No
✨ Best For: Panoramic Views of Zion Canyon and fewer crowds

Keep scrolling for more details of Observation Point Trail in Zion National Park.

About Zion National Park

Located in southern Utah, Zion National Park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and some of the most iconic hikes in the United States.

While hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows get most of the attention, Observation Point offers a completely different perspective – literally. At around 6,500 feet elevation, it sits higher than Angels Landing, giving you a bird’s-eye view over Zion Canyon.

Observation Point Trailhead

This is the most important part of planning your hike, because you can no longer access Observation Point from the main canyon via Weeping Rock Trailhead (that trail has been closed due to major rockfall).

There are now two primary ways to reach Observation Point:

East Mesa Trailhead (Best Option for Most People)

This is the route we took, and it’s by far the easiest and most popular way to hike Observation Point. This is the best option if you want a chill Zion hike with insane views.

Mostly flat and gradual
Wide, easy-to-follow trail
Less exposure and stress compared to other Zion hikes
Perfect if you want maximum reward with moderate effort

Getting to the East Mesa Trailhead is the trickiest part of hiking Observation Point, but once you know what to expect, it’s pretty straightforward. From Springdale (the main entrance to Zion), you’ll drive through the park and out the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel toward the park’s east entrance.

This drive alone is worth it, epic views the entire way. Once you exit the park on the east side, follow signs (or GPS) toward East Mesa Trailhead or Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.

You’ll drive through Ponderosa Ranch on your way to the trailhead, don’t let the signs deter you, they say no parking on the road, not that you can’t drive down it. Just know you’re heading in the right direction and for obvious reasons, don’t park on the road.

The final stretch of the road to the trailhead is an unpaved dirt road and can get rough, especially after rain. The ruts in the road looked insane. We had a 4WD truck so we had no problems but I can see how it’d be a different story if we had a standard car or if it had recently rained.

I saw a handful of cars that made it to the small parking lot, but if you don’t want to deal with the rutty road you can park at the Ponderosa Ranch and take a shuttle from there to the trailhead. This is also what to do if you can’t find a parking spot.

That being said, parking is limited, there are about 20 parking spots, so plan to arrive early (especially in peak season) if you want to snag a spot. We hiked Observation Point in shoulder season on a Friday arrived at 8:00 am and there were plenty of parking spaces available.

Stave Spring Trailhead (Slightly More Challenging)

Stave Spring Trailhead is an alternate route. This route is a bit more adventurous and less crowded. This is a great option if you want something a little more rugged and quieter.

Slightly longer and more elevation change
Rocky sections and some steeper terrain
Connects with other backcountry trails

When is the Best Time to Hike Observation Point

🌸 Spring: Ideal temperatures + fewer crowds. We hiked Observation Point in the Spring and it was epic. The best weather, blue skies, light crowds…I highly recommend a Spring visit to Zion.

☀️ Summer: Hiking Observation Point in the summer will be hot…very hot. Start early, sunrise if possible, this will help you secure a parking spot and beat the heat.

🍂 Fall is one of the best times to go to Zion National Park, cooler temperatures and great light. You can never go wrong with a fall trip anywhere, in my opinion.

❄️ Winter months, it’s possible to hike, but I can imagine how much more difficult that last portion of the road would be to get to the trailhead. Watch for snow and muddy trails.

How Long Does Observation Point Hiking in Zion Take

Most people complete the Observation Point trail in 2.5 – 4 hours round trip via the East Mesa Trail. We took our time with photos, videos, and soaking in the views and it took us just under 3 and a half hours.

So expect closer to 4 hours if you’re creating content like me. The hardest part of the hike is the distance itself.

Practical Trail Information

One of the best things about the Observation Point Zion hike is how easy it is to follow. The trail is obvious, wide, and about 700 feet of elevation gain. But here’s what to expect.

You’ll begin in a forested area with a wide, mostly flat path. It doesn’t even feel like a “Zion hike” at first. The trail gradually opens up, and you’ll start catching glimpses of the canyon through the trees.

The final approach, this is where it all comes together. As you approach Observation Point, the landscape suddenly drops away and you’re hit with one of the most breathtaking views in Zion. You’re literally looking down on Angels Landing from above. Hang your feet off the cliff edge if you dare and take in the views.

Outlook over Zion on the Angels Landing Hike

Is Observation Point Better Than Angels Landing?

If you’re trying to decide between Observation Point and Angels Landing in Zion National Park, you’re not alone, this is one of the most common questions when planning a trip to Zion.

The biggest difference comes down to experience vs exposure.

Angels Landing Trail is known for its narrow ridge, chains section, and adrenaline factor, but it requires a permit and can feel crowded and intense.

Observation Point, on the other hand, offers a completely different experience. The trail (especially via East Mesa) is much more relaxed, with no chains or technical sections, making it accessible to more hikers.

And the biggest surprise? The view from Observation Point is actually higher than Angles Landing, giving you a more expansive perspective of Zion Canyon. It’s one of my favorite views.

Honestly, if you can, do both, but if you only have time for one and want the best overall view without the stress, Observation Point is hard to beat. Plus you don’t need to plan ahead for a permit with this one.

Jess and Joe checking out the views of Observation Point

Tips For Hiking Observation Point Zion

🚻 Bathrooms: None at the trailhead
💧 Don’t forget to bring plenty of Water and Snacks
📵 Cell Service is limited
🗺️ Don’t rely on Google Maps, Download Offline Maps before you go.
🚙 Check Road Conditions before driving to East Mesa
🥾 Wear Proper Shoes, it’s relatively easy but you’re still putting in some miles.
🌅 Go for sunrise or sunset for the best light.
🛻 A High-Clearance Vehicle is recommended to drive to the trailhead.
Observation Point from the main canyon via Weeping Rock Trailhead is Closed

Observation Point Vlog

Want to see what hiking Observation Point in Zion is really like? Check out the full hike to Observation Point above, this will give you a real feel for the trail, the views, and whether it’s right for your trip.

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Other Awesome Hikes in Zion

If you have more time, don’t miss out on these hikes. They are all epic but some do require some forethought and planning.

Angles Landing (Permit Required) – One of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park, featuring a narrow ridge with chain assisted sections and jaw-dropping exposure along the way.
The Narrows – A unique hike where you’ll walk directly though the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls that make it one of Zion’s most unforgettable experiences.
Canyon Overlook Trail – A short and relatively easy hike that delivers one of the best viewpoints in Zion, perfect for sunrise or sunset with minimal effort.
The Subway (Permit Required) – A more adventurous and route-finding heavy hike that takes you through a stunning slot canyon with curved walls, waterfalls, and emerald pools.

🥾 Read Next: 6 Best Hikes in Zion National Park – You Won’t Want to Miss

Final Thoughts on the Observation Point Hike

Observation Point is one of those hikes that completely delivers. It’s not the hardest hike in Zion, and it doesn’t have the same hype as Angels Landing, but the view?

Arguably better.

If you’re looking for a hike with insane payoff, fewer crowds, and no permit stress, this is easily one of the best hikes you can do in Zion. If you have any questions or just want to say hello, drop me a line in the comments below 👇.