Winter Hike to Observation Point

Starting at 4,396 feet of elevation at the East Mesa Trailhead the trail begins on a nice paved sidewalk and quickly moves to a single dirt track. The switchbacks at the beginning of this hike are non-stop but you have an incredible view of Angel's Landing and Big Bend. You will gain 745 feet over the next mile and arriving early enough will give you great photo opportunities as the sun starts to hit Big Bend, the Organ, and Virgin River. For the next 1.4 miles the trail moves right along the drop off's to Echo Canyon. You will soon enter the canyon and there are great views of slot canyon's along the trail. There are several locations that will allow you to take great pictures of the water carved rocks. After you pass through the canyon the trail will cross over a dry stream bed and then continue up the other side of the canyon. After about a mile into Echo Canyon you will reach the East Rim Trail junction. Beyond this junction the Observation Point trail continues its steep switchbacks where you will make the final ascent to the upper White Cliff formations and you will soon be standing on the 6,508 foot plateau! The final mile of the trail is mostly level and it will head northwest and then head south to get a bird's eye view of Zion. When you hit the end of the trail you will have a spectacular view of Angel's Landing, Big Bend, the Virgin River, and The Organ. This trail is great anytime of the year, but nothing beats seeing these sites with snow dusted all over the mountaintops. Most of the trail can be covered in ice and/or snow so be sure to pack appropriate footwear.

There are several spots to relax and enjoy lunch around the end of the trail.

Early on the trail you will hit a junction for the Hidden Canyon Trail, I recommend taking this trail on the way down. There is a great free standing arch about a mile in to the Hidden Canyon trail. This trail can take you deep into the canyon so be aware of how much daylight is left and your climbing abilities as you trek deeper into this trail