Canyon Overlook Trail Zion is a moderate hike on the east side of Zion National Park, near the east entrance of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. It leads to a viewpoint over Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon, with access from State Route 9.
- Trail: 1.0 mile round trip; estimated hiking time is 1 hour.
- Elevation change: 163 feet.
- Parking: Extremely limited at the trailhead.
- Fees: Park entrance fees apply; there is no separate activity fee for the hike.
Where the Canyon Overlook Trail Is
Canyon Overlook Trail is on Zion’s east side, beside State Route 9 near the east entrance of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. From Springdale, Petty Ranch Inn is a place to base your Zion-area plans; room options at Petty Ranch Inn are available online.
The trail’s location differs from the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which is accessible by free shuttle for most of the year. Canyon Overlook is reached from State Route 9 instead, so plan it as an east-side stop rather than assuming the shuttle serves the trailhead.
Trail Length, Terrain, and Viewpoint
The trail is rocky and uneven, with long drop-offs that are mostly fenced. At the end, the viewpoint looks toward Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon.
The National Park Service rates the hike moderate and estimates 1–2 hours for the activity; its wilderness trail description gives 1 hour for the hike. Those estimates provide a planning range, while the path’s uneven footing and drop-offs are important to account for as you make your way along it.
Parking and Road Access
Parking at the trailhead is extremely limited, so be prepared to try multiple times. Pit toilets are available in the parking area. At the parking area just east of the tunnel, you must turn right to enter or exit.
The hike is available in winter, spring, summer and fall, and reservations are not required. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is intended to stay open year-round, but snow, ice, rockfall or traffic congestion can cause temporary closures. Check the official site before you go; the National Park Service provides current road-condition information.
Safety and Current Conditions
Uneven rock, steep sections and exposed drop-offs shape the hike, even where fencing is present. Pets are not allowed on Canyon Overlook Trail.
Park entrance fees apply, but there is no separate activity fee for Canyon Overlook. Accessible restroom stalls are at the trailhead; designated accessible parking is available only at the lower parking lot, roughly 100 yards away. For current access and road conditions, consult the National Park Service before setting out.
How to Combine It With Other Zion Stops
Canyon Overlook fits an east-side drive along State Route 9, while the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive uses the free shuttle for most of the year. Because the shuttle schedule can change, check it before combining the two areas in one outing. You can plan around the Zion shuttle and scenic drive.
Springdale can also be part of a broader Zion-area plan.
For ideas beyond the park, consider what to do in Springdale before or after Zion.
FAQs
Do you need a reservation for Canyon Overlook Trail?
No reservation is required for the hike. Park entrance fees still apply.
Are pets allowed on Canyon Overlook Trail?
No. Pets are not allowed on the trail.
Is Canyon Overlook reached by the Zion Canyon shuttle?
No. The trail is accessed from State Route 9 on Zion’s east side. The shuttle serves the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive for most of the year.