Ooh Aah Point Zion National Park
A breathtaking viewpoint on Zion's South Kaibab Trail, offering stunning canyon vistas after a steep, rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Ooh Aah Point Zion National Park
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking viewpoint on Zion's South Kaibab Trail, offering stunning canyon vistas after a steep, rewarding hike.
"The views are incredible, but remember the hike back up is not easy!"
Go Early to Beat Heat
Temperatures soar below the rim. Start your hike early to avoid extreme heat and enjoy cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
Hydrate with Electrolytes
Crucial for the strenuous hike. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte supplements to prevent dehydration. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Ooh Aah View
South Kaibab Trail
The first major viewpoint on the South Kaibab Trail, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the canyon.
Sunrise Spectacle
South Kaibab Trail
Witness the canyon walls ignite with color as the sun rises, a truly unforgettable experience.
Challenging Descent
South Kaibab Trail
The steep, unpaved trail offers a rewarding physical challenge for those seeking an adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Your Limits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best Time to Visit Ooh Aah Point
Go Early to Beat Heat
Temperatures soar below the rim. Start your hike early to avoid extreme heat and enjoy cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
Hydrate with Electrolytes
Crucial for the strenuous hike. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte supplements to prevent dehydration. :droplet:
Hike to Oou Ahh Point
Planning to go to the Grand Canyon this fall, tips and advice?
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep, uneven, and can be muddy or icy. Wear good hiking boots for stability. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Donkey Poop
Be mindful of your footing as there can be donkey droppings on the trail. :donkey:
South Rim one full day itinerary suggestions plz.
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Early to Beat Heat
Temperatures soar below the rim. Start your hike early to avoid extreme heat and enjoy cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
Hydrate with Electrolytes
Crucial for the strenuous hike. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte supplements to prevent dehydration. :droplet:
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep, uneven, and can be muddy or icy. Wear good hiking boots for stability. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Donkey Poop
Be mindful of your footing as there can be donkey droppings on the trail. :donkey:
Not for Everyone
This hike is strenuous. Assess your fitness level and any health conditions before attempting. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, 'aah'-inspiring views at Ooh Aah Point, calling it one of the best spots in the world. However, many caution that the hike down is deceptively steep and strenuous, requiring good physical condition and ample hydration, especially in warmer months. It's a challenging but rewarding experience for those prepared.
"Ooh Aah Point is a moderately tough hike, but the views are incredible.
We went up to Cedar Ridge—took about 3.5 hours round trip.
Best to go early morning in spring or fall to avoid heat and crowds."
Vaibhav Jain
"One of the best places in the entire world. Just a reminder that the hike to get here and back is NOT easy. Coming down here is like a 70 story skyscraper.
However, once you get down there, you did it. You have the option to hike all the way down to the bottom of the canyon, but it’s not recommended to do in one day. If you’re looking for a challenging yet moderate hike, this is the best place to stop. Plus, the views are amazing! Overall, would definitely recommend if you’re healthy."
Landon Bellamy
"Tips from a mediocre hiker: GO EARLY! It’s an oven below the rim and once the sun passes over the cliffs (mid morning/early afternoon) you won’t be able to escape the blazing heat. It can easily feel above 100 below the rim. Stay hydrated (preferably a few days or maybe even a week prior to the hike) but include electrolytes - this part is very important. I give five stars for the view, but I would keep in mind this is not an easy trail. Although it is marked, it is not paved, and it can be uneven and steep. Not ideal for people with knee, ankle, or back issues. I would also warn against hiking this trail if you have high blood pressure or heart problems, particularly in the afternoon."
Pamela Harjo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ooh Aah Point is located on the South Kaibab Trail in Zion National Park. The trailhead is accessible via the park's free shuttle system during peak season. You'll need to take the shuttle to the South Kaibab Trailhead stop.
No, there is no private vehicle access or parking at the South Kaibab Trailhead. All visitors must use the Zion Canyon Shuttle.
No, private vehicles are not allowed on the South Kaibab Trail. The only way to access the trailhead is via the Zion Canyon Shuttle.
The most convenient way is to take the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Get off at the South Kaibab Trailhead stop.
It's about a 0.9-mile hike one-way from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Ooh Aah Point. The hike down takes approximately 30-45 minutes, and the hike back up can take longer due to the steep incline.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need a valid Zion National Park entrance pass to access the park and its trails, including Ooh Aah Point. Passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
No, there are no separate fees for Ooh Aah Point itself. The park entrance fee covers access to all trails within Zion National Park.
Ooh Aah Point is accessible during daylight hours. The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, but it's best to check the official Zion National Park website for current hours.
Night hiking is generally not recommended in Zion National Park due to safety concerns and potential wildlife encounters. Stick to daylight hours.
While children can hike to Ooh Aah Point, it's a strenuous hike with steep drop-offs. Parents should carefully assess their children's abilities and supervise them closely.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderately strenuous. The descent is steep and the return hike uphill can be challenging, especially in the heat. It's often compared to descending a 70-story building.
Ooh Aah Point is approximately 0.9 miles (1.4 km) one-way from the South Kaibab Trailhead. The round trip is about 1.8 miles (2.8 km).
The hike down to Ooh Aah Point typically takes 30-45 minutes, while the hike back up can take 45-60 minutes or more, depending on your fitness level and the conditions.
You'll be rewarded with stunning, expansive views of the Zion Canyon, with colorful rock formations and the Virgin River winding below. It's a prime spot for photography.
No, the trail is not paved. It's a natural dirt and rock path that can be uneven and steep.
🎫 💧 Essentials & Safety
Bring plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Electrolyte drinks are highly recommended.
No, there is no water available on the South Kaibab Trail. You must carry all the water you need with you.
The primary risks include heat exhaustion, dehydration, falls due to the steep and uneven terrain, and potential altitude sickness.
It's generally not recommended for individuals with significant knee, ankle, or back issues due to the steep and uneven nature of the trail.
If you or someone else needs medical assistance, stay calm, administer first aid if possible, and signal for help. Park rangers patrol the trails, but cell service can be spotty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, it's important to emphasize safety. Keep children close, especially near the edges, and be prepared for a strenuous uphill climb on the return journey. If the full hike seems too much, even a short walk down the trail offers rewarding views. Alternatively, consider other family-friendly viewpoints in Zion that don't involve such a steep descent.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Focusing on hikes like Ooh Aah Point allows you to experience the park's grandeur without needing costly guided tours. The primary expense will be your park pass and any personal gear you might need. The stunning natural beauty offers immense value for the minimal cost involved.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The South Kaibab Trail Experience
Hikers often describe the descent as akin to walking down a 70-story skyscraper, emphasizing the steepness. However, the payoff is immense. The trail provides access to several viewpoints, with Ooh Aah Point being the first major one, offering a spectacular introduction to the canyon's grandeur. Further down, hikers can reach Cedar Ridge and even Skeleton Point for more expansive vistas, though reaching the canyon floor is a multi-day endeavor and not advised for day hikers.
Key considerations for hiking the South Kaibab Trail include the lack of water sources along the entire route, making it imperative to carry all your own hydration. The trail is also exposed to the sun, so starting early, especially during warmer months, is crucial to avoid dangerous heat. The trail is well-maintained but remains natural, so watch your step for loose rocks and uneven terrain.
Photography at Ooh Aah Point
When shooting, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the canyon. Experiment with different compositional techniques, such as leading lines formed by the trail or rock formations, to draw the viewer's eye into the scene. The contrast between the bright sky and the shadowed canyon can be challenging, so using a graduated neutral density filter can help balance the exposure. Remember to bring a sturdy tripod for sharper images, especially in low light conditions.
Beyond sunrise, the midday sun can create harsh shadows, but it also highlights the textures and ruggedness of the rock. If you're visiting later in the day, look for pockets of light and shadow that create interesting patterns. Always be mindful of your surroundings and the steep drop-offs when setting up your shots.
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