The Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park offers visitors one of the best combinations of easy access compared to magnificent views that you can find in the park.
In an hour or less, visitors can complete a round-trip hike to the Canyon Overlook, which is home to a stunning view of Zion’s East Canyon, and it is absolutely worth the (small) effort.
This is one of the most kid-friendly hiking trails in Zion, and a favorite pick among those not interested in long hikes–but even experienced hikers will love this short-and-sweet trail in Zion NP.
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What’s it Like to Hike Zion’s Canyon Overlook Trail?
Hiking the Canyon Overlook trail is very simple and lots of fun!
The trail starts with a very short, but fairly steep, climb up a stone staircase to the main part of the trail (there are handrails installed).
Once you reach the trail itself, it’s fairly level, with a gorgeous, shaded cave near the halfway point that makes the perfect place to take a bit of a break from the sun and heat.
The views of the canyon at the end of the trail are absolutely magnificent, and would be worth far more effort than this quick hike requires!
Essential Details for Hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook hike is a mere 1-mile round-trip and is rated as easy.
There is a small parking lot available on the south side of Highway 9, across the street from the trailhead, which makes parking easy. Since this trail isn’t located along the Zion Scenic Drive, you can drive your own vehicle there.
There are composting toilets available at the trailhead.
How to Get to the Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion NP
To reach the Canyon Overlook trailhead when coming from Springdale, follow Route 9 all the way through the Mount Carmel Tunnel.
Once you exit the tunnel, you’ll very quickly see a parking lot on your right–keep your eyes peeled not to miss it!
The parking lot is small, so if you’re visiting the park during peak season, an early start is recommended.
Tips for Zion’s Canyon Overlook Hike
Watch the edge!
While the Canyon Overlook trail is a fairly easy hike, especially compared to Zion’s most popular hikes like Angels Landing, there are a few (potentially slippery) exposed edges that, if not approached cautiously, could cause a fall–including at the phenomenal viewpoint at the end of the trail.
Exercise caution when approaching the trailhead.
Since you’ll need to cross Route 9 to get from the parking lot to the trail, you’ll want to keep a careful eye out!
This is a fantastic place to eat a picnic lunch in Zion.
The combination of easy access and near-perfect views makes this a fantastic picnic destination.
There’s also plenty of space to spread out at the final viewpoint, so it’s easy to find a quiet place to sit away from the crowd.
The trail can be slippery when wet.
Be sure to exercise increased caution after rainfall.
Regardless of when you complete the Canyon Overlook hike, sturdy hiking shoes are recommended–while the trail is easy, you absolutely want more traction than something like flip-flops provide.
Look for the windows!
If you look closely when admiring the view from the Canyon Overlook trail in Zion, you can spot the windows of the Mount Carmel Tunnel carved out of the canyon wall.
Other notable sights visible from the overlook include the West Temple, the switchbacks leading to the Mount Carmel Tunnel, and the Beehives.
About Kate Storm
In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.