If you’re looking for a short but unforgettable hike in Zion National Park, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a must-do. In less than a mile round-trip, the trail climbs moderately along rocky ledges to reveal a sweeping view of Pine Creek Canyon. Despite the trail’s brevity, the overlook feels like a full-scale viewpoint, making it a perfect stop during a Utah roadtrip for anyone seeking amazing scenery without having to commit to a long trek.
In this Zion hiking guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit, from trail details and route tips to parking info, best times to go, and what to expect along the Canyon Overlook Trail.
Canyon Overlook Trail – At a Glance
Big views in a short hike – The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail may be brief, but it delivers sweeping panoramas of Pine Creek Canyon, towering sandstone cliffs, and the mouth of Zion’s main canyon. In less than a mile round-trip, you can experience a dramatic viewpoint that you typically only get after a long trek.
Compact and accessible – The trail is relatively short and moderately elevated, with some uneven, rocky ledges protected by railings in the most exposed sections. It’s definitely manageable for anyone seeking a high-reward hike without committing to a full day.
Driving is required – Located outside the main canyon, the trailhead can only be reached by car, even during the busier months when the Zion shuttle is required to reach trails along the canyon floor.
Parking can be a challenge – Roadside parking is very limited by the trailhead, so it’s best to avoid the most popular hours. We’ll provide parking tips further below.
Golden hour brilliance – The trail is a particularly popular Zion spot during sunrise and sunset. This is due both to the stunning west-facing viewpoint and the fact that the trailhead can be reached outside of shuttle operating hours.
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Typical Hike Duration: 30-45 minutes
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Canyon Overlook Trail: Location and Map
The Zion Overlook Trail, as one can easily guess, is located in Zion National Park.
But more specifically, unlike most of the park’s trails, the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is not located within Zion’s main canyon. Instead, it sits along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, just east of the historic tunnel. This placement gives the trail a different feel from the shuttle-accessed hikes below, offering elevated, panoramic views from above the canyon walls rather than from the canyon floor. Because it lies outside the main canyon, the trail is accessible by car year-round and does not require use of the Zion Canyon Shuttle, making it a convenient stop when entering or leaving the park or when exploring Zion’s east side.
About Zion National Park
Utah’s Iconic Red-Rock Canyon: Zion National Park lies in southwestern Utah, where towering sandstone cliffs rise abruptly from the desert floor. The park is defined by sheer canyon walls, narrow slot canyons, and lush river corridors, creating dramatic contrasts between towering rock faces and green valley bottoms. Zion Canyon, carved by the Virgin River, is the park’s centerpiece and one of the most visually striking landscapes in the American Southwest.
A Landscape Carved by Water and Time: Zion’s cliffs are composed primarily of Navajo Sandstone, formed from ancient desert dunes over 150 million years ago. Over time, the Virgin River and seasonal flash floods sculpted these layers into steep canyon walls, alcoves, and narrow corridors. The result is a landscape of massive vertical relief, smooth rock textures, and striking color variations that shift throughout the day as the light changes.
A Park Built for Scenic Hiking: Zion is renowned for its diverse hiking opportunities, ranging from riverside walks and canyon-floor trails to exposed routes with sweeping views. Short hikes like the Canyon Overlook Trail deliver big scenery with minimal effort, while longer routes such as Angels Landing and The Narrows offer more immersive adventures. This range makes Zion accessible to casual visitors and experienced hikers alike.
Dramatic Viewpoints and Canyon Overlooks: One of Zion’s defining features is its abundance of elevated viewpoints. Trails and roadside pullouts reveal sweeping vistas over Zion Canyon, Pine Creek Canyon, and the surrounding plateaus.
Easy Access, High Demand: Zion is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., thanks to its proximity to Springdale and easy access via Highway 9 and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. While the park’s popularity can mean crowded trails and limited parking—especially during peak season—its shuttle system, short hikes, and well-maintained infrastructure make it possible to experience world-class scenery even on a tight schedule.
How to Get to Zion National Park
Zion National Park is best reached by car, as there is no public transportation directly to the park. While there is a shuttle system that navigates throughout the park during Zion’s busiest months, it only serves the main canyon and does not stop at the Canyon Overlook Trail, making a personal vehicle necessary for this hike.
While most of Zion’s iconic sights and hikes are clustered near the West Entrance in Springdale, the Canyon Overlook Trail is an exception. It is located on the east side of the park, along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, just outside the historic tunnel.
Zion National Park Entrances
South Entrance (Springdale):
This is the main access point for Zion National Park and where the majority of visitors begin their trip. It provides direct access to Zion Canyon, the shuttle system, and popular trails such as Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and the West Rim Trail. If you’re spending most of your time in the main canyon, this is where you’ll enter the park.
East Entrance (via Highway 9):
The east entrance is quieter and more scenic, passing through slickrock domes and sandstone formations before reaching the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. The Canyon Overlook Trail is located near this entrance, making it especially convenient for visitors approaching from Bryce Canyon, Page, Kanab, or Monument Valley.
Driving Time
The drive between the West Entrance (Springdale) and the Canyon Overlook Trail takes approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic and tunnel conditions (it occasionally functions one direction at a time to allow passage for larger vehicles). This is an important planning detail, as many first-time visitors assume the trail is close to the main canyon attractions.
All park roads, including the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, are fully paved and suitable for standard vehicles. However, traffic delays at the tunnel can occur during peak seasons, which is another reason to plan your visit carefully—something we’ll cover in more detail later in the guide.
Driving times to Zion National Park
- Las Vegas, NV: 260 km / 160 mi – about 2.5 hours
- St. George, UT: 70 km / 45 mi – about 1 hour
- Bryce Canyon National Park: 135 km / 85 mi – about 2 hours
- Page, AZ: 175 km / 110 mi – about 2.5 hours
- Flagstaff, AZ: 420 km / 260 mi – about 4.5 hours
These times assume clear weather and normal traffic conditions.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada and Arizona.
We also highly recommend Airalo (eSIM card) for your connectivity needs when travelling abroad. Airalo is the world’s first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions worldwide.
Group Excursion from Vegas
Alternatively, if you don’t have a car and are staying in Las Vegas, you can still visit Zion National Park by joining an organized tour from the city. Several companies offer full-day excursions. This is the most popular tour, which allows for 6 hours of free time in the park, but it does not provide access to the Canyon Overlook Trail:
Canyon Overlook Trail – Trailhead, Parking & Fees
Trailhead Location
The Canyon Overlook Trailhead is located along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway (UT-9), immediately east of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel (link to Google Maps). The trailhead sits just beyond the tunnel exit when travelling eastbound, perched high above Pine Creek Canyon. There is no shuttle access to this area, and all visitors must arrive by private vehicle.
Because the trailhead is outside the main canyon, it is not walkable from Springdale.
Trailhead parking lot
Parking for the Canyon Overlook Trail is extremely limited and is often the most challenging part of the hike.
Primary parking lots
P1 – When traveling eastbound (away from Springdale), the closest parking area (P1) is located directly across the road from the trailhead, almost immediately after exiting the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel.
- This lot is only accessible to eastbound traffic
- Westbound vehicles are not permitted to enter this parking area
- It is the most convenient option, but also the fastest to fill
P2 – The primary parking lot for westbound traffic (P2) is about 500 feet northerast of the trailhead. A pedestrian sidewalk connects this parking lot to the trailhead.
Both of the parking lots are tiny, each with a capacity for only a handful of vehicles, which fills up very quickly.
- A pedestrian sidewalk connects this lot to the trailhead
- This is the best option if you are approaching from the east side of the park
Both P1 and P2 are very small, each accommodating only a handful of vehicles, and they often fill early in the day—especially during spring, summer, fall weekends, and holidays.
Alternative Roadside Parking
If you’re unable to find a spot in P1 or P2, the only remaining option is roadside parking east of P2, where additional pullouts are available.
While these spots are more numerous, there are several important caveats:
- Strictly observe parking signage: roadside parking is permitted only in designated areas, and your vehicle must be completely off the roadway
- Vehicles that block traffic or extend into the lane are subject to ticketing or towing.
- These spots are farther from the trailhead, adding approximately 0.25 to 0.5 miles of walking each way
- There is no continuous sidewalk along this stretch of road, and much of the shoulder is often occupied by parked cars, so pedestrians should walk carefully and remain alert
General Parking Advice
If travelling eastbound from Springdale, take the first parking spot you find.
If travelling westbound toward the tunnel, parking is trickier. If you’re comfortable with a longer walk, take the first permitted roadside spot you see. If you try to hold out for a closer space and fail, you may be forced to continue through the tunnel (U-turns are not allowed near the tunnel), and it can take some time before you’re able to turn around and try again.
Facilities
There are vault toilets at the P2 parking lot.
There are no restrooms, water stations, or trash facilities at the trailhead itself.
Trail Opening Hours
The trail is accessible year-round, 24/7, subject to road conditions. Be aware that the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway may experience temporary closures, traffic controls, or tunnel restrictions, particularly during storms, construction, or periods of heavy visitation.
Entrance Fees for Zion National Park
Anyone visiting Zion National Park, whether to hike, take a scenic drive, or simply enjoy the views, must pay the applicable entrance fee to the National Park Service.
Entrance Fees (per vehicle, valid 7 days)
Private vehicle: $35
Motorcycle: $30
Individual (on foot, bicycle, etc.): $20
Annual Pass Options
Zion Annual Pass: $70 – unlimited entry for one year from the month of purchase.
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 – valid for one year at all U.S. National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide. This is the best value if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations, the Visitor Center, or online through the USGS website or via the REI store.
—> Most visitors exploring Utah’s “Mighty 5” parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion) should strongly consider the America the Beautiful Pass—it saves money and avoids the hassle of buying separate entry fees at each park.
Canyon Overlook Trail – Trail Stats, Difficulty, and Map
Distance: 0.9 miles (1.4 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation change: 200 ft / 60 m (difference between trail high and low point)
Elevation gain: 65 ft / 50 m (cumulative elevation gain)
AllTrails rating (2025): 4.8, 14309 ratings
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 30-45 minutes
Trail difficulty level assessment:
Very Easy | Easy | Moderate | Moderately Challenging | Challenging
Overall, the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is best described as Easy. Although there is elevation gain, the trail is short enough that it doesn’t really feel like a true prolonged climb. The trail surface is also fairly easy to navigate and non-technical (aside from a few short-lived exceptions).
Not an AllTrails member yet? We highly recommend signing up for either their free or paid membership plans. The free plan allows you to find new trails and plan routes but it can only be used while hiking if you have access to mobile data. The paid membership plan (AllTrails+) allows you to download trail maps for offline use and provides live progress updates and off-route notifications.
If you are still uncertain – you should know that the All Trails mobile application was voted the 2023 iPhone App of the Year by Apple.
We find that AllTrails is a great tool to have when hiking, particularly for assisting with navigation when the trail is hard to locate and to help monitor your progress along the trail, which helps estimate how much time you’ll need to complete the trail.
Canyon Overlook Trail – Trail Description and What to Expect
The Canyon Overlook Trail begins just east of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel, where the sounds of traffic quickly fade as you step onto a carved sandstone path.
Almost immediately, the trail starts a steady ascent, climbing away from the highway through a mix of packed dirt, slickrock, and stone steps. The early portion feels enclosed and grounded, offering glimpses of the surrounding cliffs while easing you into the climb.
Within the first few minutes, the route narrows and transitions onto exposed sandstone ledges. Here, metal railings line the most precarious sections, allowing you to move confidently while skirting dramatic drop-offs into Pine Creek Canyon below.
The views also begin to open, revealing steep canyon walls, textured rock layers, and the winding corridor carved by the creek far beneath your feet.
As the trail continues, it weaves between sculpted sandstone formations and shallow alcoves, occasionally passing through pockets of shade tucked beneath overhanging rock. These short breaks offer a moment to pause, catch your breath, and appreciate the scale of Zion’s geology up close: cross-bedded sandstone, smooth erosion patterns, and the warm hues that glow in shifting light.
Approaching the final stretch, the path widens slightly and the terrain levels out, but becomes less flat as you find yourself walking on angled slickrock.
Shortly thereafter, the trail leads you onto a broad, flat rock platform perched high above the valley, where the view opens in every direction.
At the overlook itself, Pine Creek Canyon stretches out below, framed by towering sandstone walls and distant mesas. The Zion–Mount Carmel Highway snakes through the landscape far beneath you, offering a dramatic sense of scale and perspective. From this vantage point, the lower reaches of Zion Canyon unfold in beautiful layers of colors that change with the angle of the sun throughout the day.
Many hikers linger here, taking in the quiet, the breeze, and the expansive views before retracing their steps back to the trailhead. You’ll also often find playful chipmunks wandering around, hoping to be fed.
Though short, the Canyon Overlook Trail still delivers a powerful sense of elevation, exposure, and scenery that rivals much longer hikes within the park.
Canyon Overlook Trail – Additional Details and Hiking Tips
Canine companions: Dogs are not permitted on the Canyon Overlook Trail. Zion National Park only allows pets on the Pa’rus Trail, and they are prohibited on all other hiking trails, including Canyon Overlook.
Trail environment: The Canyon Overlook Trail traverses slickrock ledges, carved sandstone steps, and exposed cliffside sections high above Pine Creek Canyon. Shade is very limited, especially in the second half of the hike, so bring water and sun protection even though the trail is short.
Route signage: The trail is well-marked from the trailhead, with clear signage and a defined path.
Trail surface / Technical aspects: The trail surface includes packed dirt, uneven sandstone steps, slickrock slabs, and narrow ledges. Several exposed sections are protected by metal railings, but the footing can be uneven, especially on worn rock. While no technical climbing is required, sturdy footwear with good traction is strongly recommended.
Slope and effort: Although short, the trail includes a steady climb with stone steps and gradual elevation gain. The average slope grade is 7%, which is on the easy side of moderate, though some sections will feel slightly more challenging due to the rocky terrain and combined elevation gain, but the distance is brief and manageable for most.
Previous Hiking Experience: The Canyon Overlook Trail is suitable for most hikers with basic fitness. However, those uncomfortable with heights or narrow ledges may find parts of the trail intimidating. Families with older children usually do fine, but close supervision is essential near drop-offs.
Cell Service: Cell reception along the trail is inconsistent. Some areas near the tunnel may have a weak signal, but coverage can disappear entirely near the overlook.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the designated trail and behind railings to protect fragile sandstone and prevent erosion. Do not climb on exposed ledges or venture beyond barriers. Pack out all trash and keep noise levels low; sound carries easily in the canyon.
Bugs: Insects are generally minimal. Occasional flies may appear in warmer months, but mosquitoes are uncommon. Bug spray is usually unnecessary.
Equipment: No special gear is required. Wear sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Trekking poles are optional but may help with balance on uneven rock steps.
Weather and Exposure: The trail is mostly exposed, with little natural shade once you leave the trailhead area.
- Sun exposure: Bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—as there are long stretches without cover.
- Wind: Gusts are common near the overlook and can be strong.
- Rain: Slickrock becomes slippery when wet. Use caution after rain or snow
Wildlife: You may spot birds, lizards, or small mammals. Wildlife encounters are typically brief. Stay alert and give animals space.
Current Trail Conditions: Check the Zion National Park alerts page before your visit for updates on road closures, tunnel traffic controls, weather impacts, or temporary trail restrictions.
Best Time to Hike the Trail
Best Time to Hike the Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is open year-round, but conditions, crowds, and overall experience vary significantly by season. Because the trail is short, exposed, and extremely popular, timing your visit can make a big difference.
Spring (March–May):
One of the best times to hike the trail. Daytime temperatures are generally comfortable, ranging from 60–80°F (16–27°C). Snow has usually melted from the trail by late March, though slickrock can remain wet or icy earlier in the season. Spring brings longer daylight hours and excellent visibility across Zion Canyon. This is also peak visitation season, so parking fills quickly: early mornings are strongly recommended.
Summer (June–September):
The trail remains accessible, but summer heat and crowds can be intense. Temperatures often climb above 90°F (32°C), and there is very little shade along the trail. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible during the monsoon season, which can make slickrock surfaces slippery. Parking congestion is at its worst during the summer months, especially mid-morning through late afternoon. Sunrise or near-sunset hikes offer cooler temperatures and better light.
Fall (October–November):
Another excellent season for hiking along the Zion Canyon Overlook trail. Daytime temperatures typically range from 65–80°F (18–27°C), and the softer autumn light enhances the canyon’s warm sandstone tones. Crowds remain high in October but begin to taper off in November. The weather is generally stable, making this one of the most reliable times to visit.
Winter (December–February):
Quiet and scenic, but conditions can be variable. Daytime highs often sit between 40–55°F (4–13°C). Snow and ice are possible, especially on shaded sections near the trailhead and slickrock steps. Traction devices may be helpful after storms. Parking is easier than in peak seasons, but always check road and tunnel conditions before heading out.
Quick Summary – When to Visit
Spring and fall offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures, clear views, and manageable conditions. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal year-round to avoid crowds and improve parking chances. Winter provides a quieter experience but requires extra caution due to ice and snow.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
Is The Canyon Overlook Trail Worth It?
We definitely think so! Although it wasn’t our favorite Zion hike, it definitely offers one of the best payoffs with stunning views of Pine Creek Canyon.
Why You Might Enjoy It:
– Compact hike offering sweeping canyon views for a relatively short effort
– The trail follows a gradual climb with a few steeper sections, suitable for many fitness levels
– It’s a great hike to pair with your arrival or your departure from the park
– The trail is accessible outside of the Zion shuttle operating hours (great for sunrise/sunset)
Why it Might Not Be for You:
– Parking can be challenging
– Difficult to reach if you are dependent on the Zion Shuttle
– It’s a popular trail and can be quite busy and crowded
– The trail has occasional sharp drop-offs and exposed ledges, which can be uncomfortable for those uneasy with heights
Want to Know More About Zion National Park?
We’ve put together a dedicated Zion National Park Guide that covers the park’s must-see viewpoints, iconic hikes inside the main canyon, scenic drives like the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, and practical tips for navigating shuttle season, parking, and crowds. It’s the perfect companion for building a well-balanced Zion itinerary or fitting the park smoothly into a Utah road trip. We also have individual hiking guides for some of our favorite Zion trails:
Scout Lookout & the West Rim
If you’re looking to experience Zion’s vertical scale and classic canyon views, the hike to Scout Lookout and beyond along the West Rim is one of the park’s most iconic adventures. The trail climbs steadily through a series of dramatic switchbacks, gaining elevation quickly and revealing sweeping views of Zion Canyon below. At Scout Lookout, the closest you can get to Angels Landing without a permit, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking perch high above the valley, with sheer cliffs and sandstone towers stretching in every direction. Continuing onto the West Rim opens up quieter terrain, expansive viewpoints, and far fewer crowds. It’s a challenging but immensely rewarding hike that showcases Zion at its most dramatic. For more trail details and hiking tips, see our Hiking Guide for Scouts Lookout & the West Rim.
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail
For one of the highest and most expansive viewpoints in Zion without the relentless elevation gain of other routes, the Observation Point hike via the East Mesa Trail is an excellent choice. This relatively gentle trail winds through open pinyon-juniper forest before emerging at the rim of Zion Canyon, where the view suddenly drops away to reveal Angels Landing far below and the full breadth of the main canyon stretching into the distance. With minimal exposure and a mostly level path, this route delivers jaw-dropping scenery with far less effort than the classic canyon-side approaches. It’s ideal for anyone who wants big views, fewer crowds, and a calmer hiking experience in Zion’s quieter eastern backcountry. For more trail details and hiking tips, see our Hiking Guide for Observation Point via East Mesa Trail.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
If you want to stay close to Zion without dealing with limited parking at the Visitor Center or juggling both the Springdale shuttle and the Zion Canyon shuttle, the northern end of Springdale is one of the most practical places to base yourself. Lodging here puts you within a short walk or drive of the park entrance, allowing you to start early and simplify logistics during peak season.
Below are two solid, well-located options that balance comfort, convenience, and access. Both are within a 20-minute walk of the park’s southern entrance.
Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
What sets it apart: Reliable comfort and one of the closest hotel locations to the park entrance.
This modern Best Western sits at the quiet northern end of Springdale, within easy walking distance of Zion’s pedestrian entrance. Rooms are clean and spacious, and amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast. Its location makes it especially appealing for hikers planning early starts, as you can avoid parking constraints and step straight into the shuttle system.
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
What sets it apart: Riverside setting with resort-style grounds, right at the edge of the park.
Cliffrose is one of the closest properties to Zion’s entrance, offering direct access to the Virgin River and beautifully maintained gardens. While more polished than a standard mid-range hotel, it remains a practical choice thanks to its walkability, on-site amenities, and proximity to the park. It’s well-suited for travellers who want a comfortable base with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere after long hiking days.
Booking Tip: Springdale accommodations fill quickly, particularly in spring and fall. Staying near the park entrance is especially valuable during shuttle season, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
Canyon Overlook Trail – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Canyon Overlook Trail worth it?
Absolutely! Despite being one of Zion’s shortest hikes, the Canyon Overlook Trail delivers one of the park’s most impressive viewpoints. The sweeping panorama over Pine Creek Canyon is a must-see, and the trail is one of the best “high reward for low mileage” hikes in the park.
Where is the Canyon Overlook Trail located?
The Canyon Overlook Trailhead is located along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway (UT-9), just east of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. Unlike most of Zion’s major hikes, it is not in the main Zion Canyon and cannot be accessed by the park shuttle.
How long does it take to hike the Canyon Overlook Trail?
Most visitors spend 30 to 45 minutes on the trail. Photographers or those hiking at sunrise or sunset may want to budget additional time.
Is the Canyon Overlook Trail difficult?
The trail is generally considered easy, with a few moderate sections. The distance is short, but uneven footing, elevation gain, and exposed ledges mean it’s not a flat stroll. Handrails are present in key areas, but hikers should be comfortable with heights.
Is the Canyon Overlook Trail safe for kids?
Older children usually do well on the trail, but close supervision is essential due to drop-offs near the overlook. The trail is not recommended for strollers, and caution is advised for families with very young children.
Can you bring dogs on the Canyon Overlook Trail?
No. Dogs are not allowed on the Canyon Overlook Trail. In Zion National Park, pets are restricted to the Pa’rus Trail only.
Do you need a permit to hike Canyon Overlook?
No permit is required. However, you must pay the Zion National Park entrance fee or have a valid park pass.
Is parking difficult at the Canyon Overlook Trailhead?
Yes. Parking is extremely limited and often the biggest challenge of the hike. The two small parking lots near the trailhead fill quickly, especially between mid-morning and late afternoon. Roadside parking is available farther away but requires extra walking and caution. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening greatly improves your chances.
What is the best time of day to hike Canyon Overlook?
Early morning or late afternoon is best. These times offer cooler temperatures, better lighting, fewer crowds, and improved parking availability. Sunset is especially popular, but parking competition is highest then.
Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited anywhere within Zion National Park, including the Canyon Overlook Trail and surrounding viewpoints. Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft is not allowed due to safety concerns, wildlife disturbance, and visitor experience impacts. Violations can result in fines and confiscation of equipment.
Explore More Utah National & State Park Guides
Continue exploring Utah with these detailed guides:
Bryce Canyon National Park Guide
Capitol Reef National Park Guide
Snow Canyon State Park Guide
Valley of Fire State Park Guide
Goblin Valley State Park Guide
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
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Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Zion National Park Hiking Guide for the Zion Overlook Trail and that it will prove useful for planning your trip.
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