Backpack the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park

The West Rim Trail is classically done as a two-day backpacking trip from Lava Point into the heart of Zion National Park. As a point-to-point route, it is important to set up a two car shuttle system between Lava Point and Zion NP or take advantage of the many shuttle services available from the Springdale outfitters. However, be aware of road closures and shuttle service hours as many of these services only run in the morning, so it's important to plan ahead!

Starting early from Lava Point campgrounds, follow the Barney's Trail (just left of campsite 2) to reach the official trail head just half-a-mile southeast. To begin, the first few miles take you across the flat, upper plateaus full of short trees and shrubs bathed in the morning sunrise. Three miles in, you will reach the "SGA Teaser Viewpoint", the first gorgeous view down the Left Fork of North Creek to the South Guardian Angel Mountain in the distance.

Over the next two miles, you will make a gradual descent into the beautiful meadows of Potato Hollow. Here, there are two wonderfully secluded campsites, if you plan to call it a day early. Water is also available in the springs of Potato Hollow if the season is not too dry. 

As you exit Potato Hollow, the trail will begin to rise, making a series of steep switchbacks up to "Hammerhead Viewpoint". The view of the canyons start to open up, and you can start to see the amazing formations of the Great West Canyon. In this stretch, campsites 1-3 is ideal to spend the night, a bit more than half-way through the trail with a spectacular view. A small spring is available half-a-mile down for water.

Following, the trail begins to descend as it heads east down the upper plateau. For the next four miles, the trail hugs the chiseled White Cliffs and winds down into the canyon. The views here are breathtaking and Angel Landing will soon come into view to the south. If time permits, Angel Landing makes a for a great side trip, an iconic trail that shouldn't be missed.

Lastly, you will hike through the famous Walter's Wiggles and Refrigerator Canyon, switchbacking until you are back down to the canyon floor by Grotto Trailhead.

I followed very useful trail details from: Joe Braun's Guide to Zion and NPS for campsite information.