Viewpoint Hikes

For specific details, directions, and route descriptions, please see the Hiking Guides we have created for our guests’ convenience; available by request, and onsite in the cabin.

Cable Mountain

Within walking distance of our front door! Out and back; approximately 8 miles round trip. Moderate difficulty; plan to allow at least 4 hours. Spectacular, less travelled viewpoint trail; this hike offers amazing views of Angel’s Landing across and below; Observation Point to your right, and Big Bend on the canyon floor below.

This hike captures a bit of history for you that is still visible today - in 1899, Zion pioneer David Flannigan began constructing his teenage dream; a cable to transport timber from the plateau above Zion Canyon to the valley below. This timber tram became operational in 1901, providing most of the lumber used to build accommodations in Zion National Park, as well as ranches further down-canyon. When the Park Service removed the 3,300 foot cable in 1930, they left the cableworks structure in place atop the mountain, and it remains intact today.

Observation Point

Within walking distance of our cabin; however, the trailhead for this hike is located approximately 2 miles from our property via gravel roads, so it is generally preferable to drive or take the Zion Ponderosa Ranch shuttle to the trailhead since walking will add an additional 4 miles total distance.

Out and back; approximately 6 miles roundtrip from the East Mesa Trailhead. Moderate difficulty; plan to allow at least 3 hours. This viewpoint offers a gorgeous perspective that looks down on Angel’s Landing, Cable Mountain to your left, and a stunning down-canyon vista.

**Zion Canyon as seen from Observation Point**

Canyon Overlook Trail

Out and back; 1 mile roundtrip. Moderate difficulty with a steep beginning. This route begins at the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel, coming out on top of the Grand Arch to overlook the twisting highway below as it winds its way down to the main canyon area. Absolutely breathtaking, and a great payoff for relatively short distance!

The trail itself has lots of personality, following the narrow slot of Pine Creek Canyon; which offers fascinating glimpses into the depths of an awesome technical canyoneering route.

Parking is available at the east end of the tunnel and is very limited; plan to arrive early.

Deertrap Mountain

Within walking distance of our front door! Out and back; approximately 10 miles roundtrip. Moderate difficulty; plan to allow at least 5 hours. Beautiful views; less travelled trail - this viewpoint offers a gorgeous Zion panorama, with bighorn sheep often spotted on the rocky cliffs in this area.

Angel’s Landing

Out and back; approximately 5 miles roundtrip. Very strenuous and steep; not recommended for those with fear of heights or health challenges, or for small children. 1500’ elevation gain.

This route is famous with good reason - it offers a unique and spectacular experience, as well as a chance to appreciate a stellar view from the summit! Known as a combination rock climb/ thrilling hike, this route provides plenty of adventure, with sheer drops on either side of the final sharp ridge as you approach the top.

It is necessary to ride the shuttle from the Visitor Center to the trailhead in order to access this hike.

NOTE that as of April 2022, permits will be required to hike Angel's Landing. This new permitting system is being implemented to address safety concerns related to overcrowding on the more technical sections of trail. (Visit the Zion NP website to read about these changes and to apply for a permit, if you wish to include this hike in your experience of the park.)