The Canyon Overlook Trail is one of Zion’s classic easy hikes with outstanding views. The trail begins by ascending beautiful sandstone steps, climbing up above the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. This short trek brings hikers to a cliff’s edge, boasting insanely beautiful views of lower Zion Canyon, including Zion’s most beloved Switchbacks. This hike is a perfect option for those looking for a high elevation viewpoint, without tackling a grueling trail such as Observation Point.
Elevation gain – 163 feet (49.68 m)
Difficulty rating – Easy short family hike.
Trailhead (The Starting Location) – The trailhead for this hike is located just outside the east end of the 1.1 mile Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel close by the ranger booth.
Duration (book time) – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Distance – 1 mile round-trip (1.61 km)
Seasons – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week granted visitor access makes this a popular place to be year-round.
Bathrooms – Vault restrooms are located at the trailhead across the highway from the ranger booth.
The Trail
Follow the steps up the Canyon Overlook Trail located on the east side of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel near the ranger booth. The Canyon Overlook Trail continues along a dirt path to an alcove with a recessed rock just beyond the alcove. The trail begins to climb among slick rock hoodoos, along cliff sections where you should proceed with extra caution.
Trail Map
Hike Features
Well maintained path made of mostly sandstone with some packed dirt sections.
Parking
The trailhead for this hike is located just outside the east end of the 1.1 mile Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel close by the ranger booth. Park here.
Directions
Getting to Zion National Park:
From the North: Travel I-15 south, past Beaver. exit on Hwy 20. Follow US-89 to Mount Carmel Junction. Take SR-9 to Zion’s east entrance.
From the South: Travel I-15 north. Take exit 16 and travel through Hurricane to LaVerkin. Continue on SR-9 to the south entrance of the park. SR-9 through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.
Nearby hikes
For those looking for a longer and more challenging adventure, there’s plenty of other trails nearby to extend your hiking day. Be sure to check out Observation Point, Angel’s Landing, or The Narrows.
Before You Go
Be sure to stay on established trails to protect yourself and the fragile desert environment. Never approach the edge of a cliff, and remember that sandstone can be slippery.
*NOTE* Do not hike this trail if it is wet, raining or lightening.
Current Weather Conditions
Springdale, UT
Tonight
Clear. Low around 34, with temperatures rising to around 36 overnight. East northeast wind around 5 mph.
Sunday
Mostly sunny. High near 57, with temperatures falling to around 52 in the afternoon. Southeast wind around 5 mph.
Sunday Night
Partly cloudy. Low around 33, with temperatures rising to around 36 overnight. North wind 2 to 7 mph.
M.L. King Jr. Day
Sunny, with a high near 57. Northeast wind 3 to 7 mph.
Monday Night
Clear, with a low around 30. Northeast wind 3 to 7 mph.
Tuesday
Sunny, with a high near 56.
Tuesday Night
Clear, with a low around 31.
Additional Photos
