Observation Point - This is one of the most beautiful and varied trails I have been on. It is tough but you should try it. Even if you don't make it to the top, it is a wonderful hike. Start early as it takes some time and there is little shade. October is a great time to go here as the weather is moderate and the maples are various shades of red and gold.

The trail leaves from the #7 shuttle stop at Weeping Rock. The trail gives access to Hidden Canyon (also wonderful), Observation Point, Cable Mountain and East Rim trails. The Observation Point trail is 8 miles round trip, with 2,148 feet elevation gain. Surprisingly, much of it is paved due to the efforts of the CCC back in the early 1930's.

The first half mile or so to the split with the Hidden Canyon trail is perhaps the toughest as it is very steep even with lots of switchbacks. But then it levels out for a while before you start climbing again. As you will see from my photos, the views change dramatically from high cliffs, to slot canyons, to canyon overlooks. You turn a corner and the whole view changes. As you get near the top, you have many views of the Zion Canyon.

The photos show the views pretty much as you will come to them although after the 27th slide, the photos show the return trip. If you tend to go slowly as I do, you will be returning as the late afternoon sun is hitting the cliff and throwing interesting reflections in Echo Canyon.

If you look at the next to the last photo, you will see someone (very small) standing at the top. This is the end of the trail. The next photo shows Observation Point from closer to the bottom of the trail. It gives you some feeling for how far you have to climb to reach it.