Canyon Overlook, Zion

The trail starts at the small parking area on the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway just east of the long tunnel. It climbs a few rock steps, then follows ledges along the wall of Pine Creek canyon, passing under overhanging rock, to a fenced viewpoint that looks west down Pine Creek into lower Zion Canyon. Return the same way.

It is 0.9 miles (1.5 km) round trip with about 200 feet (60 m) of climbing; allow about half an hour, plus time at the view. The grade is Easy: it is short, though the trail is uneven, with high steps and low overhangs.

Long drop-offs line the route; most, but not all, are fenced, so keep children close. Pets are not allowed. The Zion Canyon shuttle does not come here, so you have to drive. Since June 7, 2026, vehicles longer than 35 feet 9 inches, wider than 7 feet 10 inches, taller than 11 feet 4 inches or heavier than 50,000 pounds may not use the highway between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance.

Parking is very limited: come early or late, and be ready to try more than once. There are pit toilets at the parking area.

Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.