East Rim Trail

The East Rim Trail to the first main overlook is located near the East Entrance of Zion National Park. The East Rim Trail is a much longer trail from start to finish, though this first section will give you a good taste of this section of the park. The overlook will treat you to a beautiful view from the top. The views on the way up are not quite as dramatic as other trails in the park.

Difficulty: Mild to moderately strenuous related to elevation gain.

Trail Stats: 4.5 miles, 547 feet of elevation gain.

Trail Finding: The trail is clearly marked.

Conditions: Intermittent shade. Sections of sand.

Would I Repeat This: No, but I am glad I did this trail at least the one time.

Parking: There is a parking lot with ample space. It is located just before the entrance station to the park if you are coming from Springdale, or just inside the park if you are coming from the east. You do not need to take the shuttle for this hike.

Timing: Could complete at any time of day. With respect to activities in Zion National Park, recommend earlier entrance to the park to avoid lines to get into the park. If you are coming from the Springdale entrance, you will go through the tunnels and all the way to just before the East entrance to the park.

Downloaded Map: Although a downloaded map is always nice to have, it is not required.

Fees: This hike is within Zion National Park. You are required to pay the entrance fee or to present your National Parks Pass.

Trails: Zion National Park is a treasure trove of trail options. Check out the Canyon Overlook, Many Pools, Scout’s Lookout, Lower Emerald Pools, and more. Be aware of the need to take the shuttle that is operated by the park into Zion Canyon during certain times of the year for certain trails. The shuttle schedule and seasons are on the National Park Service website. The trailheads to numerous trails are located in Zion Canyon and the park closes the canyon to private vehicles for certain times of the year.