Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
369.00 ft (112.47 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.70 mi (4.35 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Finding spectacular hikes in Zion National Park is pretty easy (Angel's Landing, Hidden Canyon, Observation Point), but most of them require a shuttle trip from the main parking area near the visitor center.  Watchman Trail is a great short hike that can be reached on foot from Watchman or South campgrounds or via the town shuttle.

Starting near the bridge that crosses the Virgin River (on the south side of the river), the trail follows the river for a short way until it branches off and starts to climb the slopes below Bridge Mountain, losing sight of Watchman. Keeping up a steady climb on several switchbacks, the trail crosses the creek and climbs up another ridge, where views of Watchman Peak start to come into sight for the first time. The trail reaches a signed junction with the loop trail, and this circles the top of the ridge, offering one spectacular view of the Watchman after another. There are also nice views looking up the main Zion Canyon and across to the Towers of the Virgin.

Logistics + Planning

Current Weather: Powered by Dark Sky

Clear throughout the day.
Sat
83°F
47°
Clear throughout the day.
Sun
90°F
48°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Mon
92°F
53°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Tue
92°F
52°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Wed
92°F
49°
Clear throughout the day.
Thu
92°F
50°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Fri
94°F
50°

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Splendid views. Moderate climb. Conveniently close to the visitor center and campgrounds.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

3,960.00 ft (1,207.01 m)

Features

Big vistas
Wildflowers
Geologically significant

Location

Comments

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