Hiking Canyon Overlook Trail - Zion National Park

Canyon Overlook in Zion National Park is a family-friendly trail on the east side of Zion that features big horn sheep sightings, caves (kinda) and one of the most breathtaking views in the park. It almost feels like cheating to get views like this with such an easy hike.

This guide to Canyon Overlook Zion National Park will give you all the info you need to do this hike, from trail stats to parking info to hazards to be aware of.

LENGTH

The Canyon Overlook Trail is just 1.25 miles round trip, so it’s a great short hike when you’re visiting Zion.

DIFFICULTY

Canyon Overlook Zion National Park is an easy family friendly hike with only about 200 feet of elevation gain. While the trail is very doable for most people, including kids, be aware, there are steep drop-offs on this trail, so it is very important to keep an eye on your children at all times.

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TRAIL DETAILS

The Canyon Overlook trail is mostly flat, but in the very beginning, there are some short uphill switchbacks and steps that the younger kiddos may need a bit of help with. It is important to note that even though this is a very kid friendly hike, there are plenty of spots along the trail and especially at the overlook that can be dangerous. Make sure your children stick to the trail and away from the edges.

When you reach the top of the hill, you’ll be greeted by sandstone formations and pinyon pines. Make your way across some slickrock to get to the actual Canyon Overlook. From the overlook, you’ll get an incredible perspective of the main Zion Canyon and Towers of the Virgin.

The Canyon Overlook hike should take about an hour, and you should plan to spend some extra time at the overlook soaking in the amazing views. Believe me, the views are so good you won’t want to leave!

LOCATION

Canyon Overlook Zion National Park is located, just east of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel along Highway 9. Click Here for exact location and directions.

The trailhead is not in the main canyon of Zion, so it is not accessible by the Zion shuttle. You need to drive your own vehicle to get there, and parking is extremely limited at the Canyon Overlook trailhead. Try to come early or late in the day to avoid the biggest crowds, and be prepared to wait for a parking spot.

PARKING TIPS COMING FROM THE WEST SIDE OF ZION

Be aware that parking at Canyon Overlook is very limited so you will need to be very strategic and patient. To get to Canyon Overlook in Zion National Park from the Springdale entrance, you will take Highway 9 and drive through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. When you come out of the tunnel there will be a small parking lot immediately to your right. I recommend pulling into that parking lot even if you don’t see any spaces available. There is a spot at the back of the lot where you can wait and see if something will become available soon.

If it’s not looking good, you can pull out and go a little farther up the road, where there is a very small parking area to your left. Pull in there even if you don’t see anything and wait for something to oven up. If you go any further up the road, you will have a decent walk to get to the trailhead, so you might want to just try Canyon Overlook again at another time.

Scroll through for tips and additional info for hiking Canyon Overlook Zion National Park.

TIPS AND ADDITIONAL INFO FOR CANYON OVERLOOK ZION NATIONAL PARK

Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. They love to hang out in this area!
I highly recommend doing this hike in the evening if possible. This is the perfect spot to watch the sun set behind the mountains! In fact, it’s one of my favorite places in Zion to catch the sunset.
If you’re hiking with children, it’s a good idea to have your kiddos use the restroom (pit toilets) at the small parking lot before you head up the trail.
If you have some extra time, there is a short but very steep rocky dirt trail that starts at the small parking lot. Follow it down to explore a small slot canyon. Kinda fun!
Wear good hiking shoes, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and enjoy the views!