Magic and Majesty… Only a hike away!

Leaves changing colors, sweater weather and pumpkin spice in excess can mean only one thing. Fall is upon us! What better way to enjoy your weekend then by taking advantage of the fall weather, shorter waits and the amazing overlooks of the changing season that Zion has to offer.

Here are just a few hikes that Zion with views that are sure to take your breathe away.

Observation Point:

This 8 mile day hike is sure to give you one of the most spectacular views of Zion Canyon during this fall season! The trail is accessible via park shuttle from April until the end of October. When the park shuttles are not in operation you can park at the Weeping Rock parking lot and gain access to this incredible hike.

Photo Credit: realone550 on reddit

With drop offs and it’s zigzagging path, Observation Point showcases the red Navajo sandstone as you make your way through Echo Canyon to an overlook of the canyon.

Canyon Overlook Trail:

This Zion classic hike is roughly one hour round trip. The trail starts with carved sandstone steps that take you up above the Mt. Carmel Tunnel which is popular for canyoneers. This easier hike ends at the edge of a cliff overlooking the southern part of canyon with views of the notorious switchbacks of Zion National Park.

Photo Credit: Chase Lindberg

This hike offers a view similar to that of Observation Point but is a more family friendly option to the difficulty level to that of Observation Point.

Emerald Pools:

This family friendly trail offers generous amounts of scenery along it’s route through waterfalls and pools. With it’s trailhead starting at the Footbridge across the street from the Zion Motel, this trail is ideal for families with children wanting to experience the changing colors and scenery of Zion in it’s fall season.

The trail is roughly 3 miles round trip, with it’s traffic being significantly lower during the fall season. This hike is best during the day while the temperatures are still warmer than the afternoon and evenings.

Riverside Walk:

This trail, formerly known as the Gateway to the Narrows, starts at the Temple of Sinawava and is roughly 2 miles round trip. With slight changes in elevation this paved trail is normally suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making this the perfect family hike.

Walk through the trail near the river and experience the changing of the leaves as you make your way to the beginning of the Narrows.

Watchman Trail:

This desert like trail offers you a look at the changes in the desert landscape during the fall months. This 2 mile hike on a dirt path has a mild 456 foot ascent that takes you along the foothills of Bridge Mountain leaving you at a bench near the end of Watchman Spire leaving you with an overlook of some of Zion’s Landmarks such as Beehives, Towers of the Virgin as well as the Altar of Sacrifice.

Photo Credit: qtonthat on flickr

Timber Creek Overlook:

The Timber Creek Overlook trail is part of the lesser-visited area of Zion National Park. The Timber Creek Overlook gives a different look at the “Kolob Canyons” of Zion National Park. Located just off of Exit 40 on I-15, near New Harmony, Utah, the trail is roughly 1 mile round trip that starts at the west end of the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint parking lot.

Photo Credit: Rick Knepper on flickr

Once you reach the viewpoint, you can look straight across the valley to the Shuntavi Butte as well as a great view of the valleys and peaks to the south of the butte. This trail also offers a great view of the sunset with the fall colors around.

Angels Landing:

For those looking for the thrill of a strenuous hike as well as the most breathtaking view of Zion Canyon, Angels Landing is the hike for you! This famous hike offers all the thrills and views that any hiking enthusiast is looking for as it runs along narrow rock walls and drop offs on both sides. This trail is not for children or those with fear of heights.
Although strenuous, the view of the canyon and the emerging colors of fall helps you understand why this trail must have gotten the name Angels Landing.

Whether you are a hiking enthusiast looking for the thrills of a strenuous hike that showcases the colors of fall, or you’re wanting to take your family up to enjoy the smaller crowd, Zion has a hike with a view for you.