Canyon Overlook Trail Zion National Park
A short, rewarding hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Zion Canyon, accessible via a scenic drive through the Mount Carmel Tunnel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Canyon Overlook Trail Zion National Park
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, rewarding hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Zion Canyon, accessible via a scenic drive through the Mount Carmel Tunnel.
"This trail offers incredible views in a short time with minimal effort."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Only about 10 spots at the trailhead. Arrive VERY early or late, or be prepared to wait.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Go early or late to avoid the midday sun. Bring water, even for this short hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Canyon Vista
End of the trail
Breathtaking, postcard-perfect views of Zion Canyon and the Towers of the Virgin. A true reward for a short hike.
Mount Carmel Tunnel Drive
Route to the trailhead
A historic and scenic drive, especially exiting the tunnel to reach the trailhead. Enjoy the unique geological formations.
Kid-Friendly Exploration
Along the trail
Shady spots and mild inclines make this a great hike for families. Kids will love the adventure and the rewarding views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Epic Views
Scenic Drive to the Trailhead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Only about 10 spots at the trailhead. Arrive VERY early or late, or be prepared to wait. 
☀️ Beat the Heat
Go early or late to avoid the midday sun. Bring water, even for this short hike.
🥾 Easy Hike, Big Reward
Just 1 mile roundtrip with moderate inclines. Perfect for most fitness levels and families.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset offers stunning light, but parking fills up fast. Consider sunrise for a similar, less crowded experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Only about 10 spots at the trailhead. Arrive VERY early or late, or be prepared to wait.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Go early or late to avoid the midday sun. Bring water, even for this short hike.
🥾 Easy Hike, Big Reward
Just 1 mile roundtrip with moderate inclines. Perfect for most fitness levels and families.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset offers stunning light, but parking fills up fast. Consider sunrise for a similar, less crowded experience.
💡 No Permit Needed!
Unlike Angel's Landing, this trail doesn't require a permit, making it a great alternative for epic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Canyon Overlook Trail for its stunning, postcard-worthy views that are easily accessible via a short hike. It's a highly recommended activity for its impressive payoff with minimal effort, making it a favorite for families and those short on time. However, the extremely limited parking is a significant drawback, often requiring early morning or late afternoon visits to secure a spot.
"Easy trail 2 miles in and out .. you get some great views of canyons and scenic vistas.. although parking is challenge"
Mahendra Jadhao
"This is relatively easy trail with a viewpoint at the end was so beautiful and worth it! Highly recommend if you have a day in Zion. The trail has beautiful views all around! Parking is a bit hard to find nearby!"
Preyas Shah
"Easy tracking. Less than mile round trip. It is worth of your time. I highly recommend if you don’t have enough time."
Brian Cho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located on the east side of Zion National Park, just east of the Mount Carmel Tunnel. You'll need to drive your own vehicle as the park shuttle does not service this area.
The drive involves switchbacks and the historic Mount Carmel Tunnel. While generally safe, drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're not accustomed to mountain roads.
No, the Zion shuttle system does not go to the Canyon Overlook Trailhead. You must drive your personal vehicle to access it.
The road is paved and well-maintained, but can be winding with switchbacks. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak season.
Parking is extremely limited, with only about 10 spots. It's highly recommended to arrive very early in the morning or later in the afternoon to secure a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a permit is not required for the Canyon Overlook Trail. This makes it a very popular alternative to hikes like Angel's Landing.
The trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access may be restricted during severe weather conditions.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Zion National Park. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
While the trail is technically open, hiking in the dark is not recommended due to safety concerns and potential hazards. Some visitors have mentioned needing a headlamp if they stay too late. [^Review]
The main restriction is the limited parking. During peak times, you may have to wait for a spot or return at a different time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is approximately 1 mile roundtrip and typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the view.
It's generally considered easy to moderate. There are some steps and exposed sections, but the elevation gain is minimal.
Yes, it's a popular choice for families. There are some interesting rock formations and shady spots that kids often enjoy.
You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Zion Canyon, including the iconic Towers of the Virgin. It's a classic Zion vista.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the trailhead, which can be convenient before or after your hike. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, sunrise is often less crowded.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The main viewpoint at the end is the most iconic. However, keep an eye out for interesting rock formations and perspectives along the trail itself.
Drone usage is restricted in Zion National Park. Please check the official NPS website for current regulations before flying.
Always be mindful of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from the edge when taking photos. The drop-offs can be steep.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Look for shady spots along the way and enjoy the unique rock formations. It's a great way to experience Zion's grandeur without a strenuous trek. [^Review]Key tips for families: Arrive early to secure parking, bring plenty of water, and keep a close eye on children near any drop-offs. The trail is generally considered safe and rewarding for younger adventurers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography recommendations: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive scenery. Consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions. Be mindful of the limited parking and the crowds that can gather, especially at sunset. Sunrise is often a better choice for a more serene photographic experience.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Time-Crunched Visitors
It's an excellent way to get a taste of Zion's grandeur without needing a full day. Essential advice: Prioritize arriving early to secure parking, as it's the biggest challenge for day-trippers. The scenic drive through the Mount Carmel Tunnel is also a worthwhile experience to factor into your limited time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mount Carmel Tunnel
Be aware that due to the tunnel's size, large vehicles (over 13 feet high or 8 feet wide) may need an escort and have specific time restrictions. For standard passenger vehicles, the drive through the tunnel is usually straightforward, but it's always wise to drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles, especially those that might be larger or slower. The scenery on the east side of the tunnel is distinct from the main canyon, with different rock formations and vegetation.
Many visitors find the drive itself to be a highlight, offering a scenic prelude to the hike. It's a good idea to have your camera ready as you exit the tunnel, as the views can be quite striking. [^Review]
Maximizing Your Canyon Overlook Experience
+1To truly enhance your experience, timing is key. Arriving early in the morning, especially for sunrise, offers the best chance to avoid crowds and witness the canyon bathed in soft, golden light.
Alternatively, late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour hues. If you're visiting during peak season, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Remember to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for the limited parking. The reward at the end—a breathtaking vista of Zion Canyon—is well worth the effort and planning.
[^Review]Family-Friendly Adventure
+1Parents often appreciate the trail's features, such as the shady spots that offer respite on warmer days and the interesting rock formations that can spark a child's imagination. The sense of accomplishment after completing the hike is also a great motivator for kids. [^Review]
When hiking with children, always prioritize safety. Keep a close eye on them, especially near any exposed sections of the trail, and ensure they have plenty of water. The Canyon Overlook Trail provides a memorable outdoor experience that the whole family can enjoy together.
Social
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