Although this may not be a classic hike in Zion National Park, this trail to Cable Mountain is well worth exploring because it is one of the most diverse and secluded hikes in the park. Starting at the East Rim Trailhead located near the East Entrance of the park, the journey begins by traversing the bottom of the canyon floor, where you are surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. This mellow stroll quickly turns into an uphill trek that travels up to the top of the canyon and gives you expansive views of neighboring cliffs and the canyon floor. The hike travels along the top of the cliff for the rest of the hike with only slight changes in elevation. Along the way to Cable Mountain there are a few spots with great vistas such as the Jolley Gulch, which gives you a very interesting view into a slot canyon. After about 6 miles of hiking there is a spur trail that leads to the final grand viewpoint from Cable Mountain. Cable Mountain has an incredible 270-degree viewpoint of both the main Zion Canyon and eastern section of the canyon.
Cable Mountain earned its name from the efforts of a young pioneer named David Flanigan. In 1901 Flanigan created a Draw Works cable system to transport lumber and timber from the peak of Cable Mountain to the floor of the Zion Canyon. By doing this, Flanigan believed he was fulfilling a vision of the Mormon preacher, Brigham Young, who saw the potential of having such a system. The cables were in operation from 1901 to 1927 and were responsible for the successful transportation of thousands of pounds of lumber, goods, people, and even a dog. The remains of the cable system, although deteriorated, still rest upon the beautiful peak of Cable Mountain. However, these cables are rotten and deteriorated and should not be sat or climbed on.
Overall, the seclusion, diverse landscapes and vegetation, grand viewpoints, and historical significance of this hike make it a hidden gem in the vast landscapes of Zion National Park.
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