Trail Leading to Canyon Viewpoint in Zion National Park
In the eastern part of Zion National Park, nestled just outside the upper entrance to the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel, lies the picturesque Canyon Overlook Trail. This trailhead, easily accessible by car, offers a unique and breathtaking experience for hikers and visitors alike.
To reach the trailhead, simply follow Highway 9 northeast from the Visitor Center, and after driving through the Mount Carmel Tunnel, park your vehicle near the ranger station immediately past the tunnel's exit. The trailhead is situated right on Highway 9, with a small parking lot at this spot and an additional overflow lot a short distance further east.
The trail, while short, blurs the line between a hike and a roadside attraction, leading to a viewpoint on top of the Great Arch that can be seen along the road. The trail is considered beautiful, easy, and fun to follow, making it one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park[7].
For those planning a hike on the Canyon Overlook Trail, it's essential to wear appropriate footwear. Trail runners or hiking shoes are recommended due to the slick rock on the trail[8]. To ensure maximum comfort during your hike, consider the Altra Lone Peak 9, a shoe known for its improved grip and comfort over long distances[2].
When it comes to packing for your hike, the Osprey Hikelite 26 is a great choice. This light, tough, and durable daypack keeps your back dry with its trampoline mesh[4]. For those seeking additional safety, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 offers 100% reliable SOS coverage in the backcountry[6].
Planning your visit in advance can increase your chances of finding a parking spot at the trailhead. Arriving at sunrise is often recommended, as the early hours tend to be less crowded[9].
For those seeking more information about the trail, CalTopo provides GPX File downloads, Canyon Overlook Trail maps, and a detailed view of the hike on their platform[1][5]. AllTrails Plus also offers up-to-date trip reports, offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync, with a 30% discount available at this link[10].
The Canyon Overlook Trail ends at the Pipe Creek Canyon overlook, offering stunning views into Zion Canyon. It's a hike that the speaker recommends visiting at every opportunity[11]. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a must-visit destination in Zion National Park.
- Prepare for your hike on the Canyon Overlook Trail by wearing appropriate footwear, such as trail runners or hiking shoes, due to the slick rock on the trail.
- For a comfortable hiking experience, consider the Osprey Hikelite 26 as your daypack, and for added safety, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 provides reliable SOS coverage in the backcountry.
- To find a parking spot at the trailhead, plan your visit in advance and arriving at sunrise is often recommended to avoid the crowds.
- For more information about the trail, visit CalTopo for detailed maps, GPX File downloads, and trip reports, or AllTrails Plus for up-to-date information and a 30% discount at this link. The Canyon Overlook Trail ends at the Pipe Creek Canyon overlook, offering breathtaking views into Zion Canyon.
