Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
602.00 ft (183.49 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
7.00 mi (11.27 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.

East Mesa Trail is a 7-mile out-and-back trail in Zion National Park. The trail begins at East Mesa Trailhead, off North Fork Road, and heads west and south to Observation Point, one of the most scenic vistas in the entire park. Standing at Observation Point, you can see the popular Angel's Landing rock formation as well as the entire length of Zion Canyon.

The trail has an overall elevation gain of 602', is moderately rated and  is open to runners, hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. 

DIRECTIONS

Starting from North Fork Road, the East Mesa Trail heads west through ponderosa pine forest and pinyon-juniper woodlands. Continue for .4 past the junction with the East Rim Trail to reach Observation Point. 

TRAILHEAD ACCESS

To reach the East Mesa Trailhead, a high clearance / 4WD vehicle is required. Be sure to check weather before heading out (especially during winter and spring) the road can get muddy and inaccessible after a rainstorm. The trailhead is located near private property and visitors must make sure they are parked in designated spaces to avoid a citation or potential tow. 

PERMITS

All overnight backpacking in Zion National Park requires a permit. Plan and prepare ahead of time by reading through the NPS- Backpacking Reservation Guide.

WATER

For updated information regarding water availability and specific locations of water sources within Zion National Park, please visit https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/watersources.htm

CONSIDERATIONS

  • Be prepared for quickly changing weather in the park. 

  • Make sure to bring maps and identify various exit points. 

  • July - September is monsoon season which means an increased risk for flash floods. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

NPS - East Rim Wilderness

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic Views through Zion Canyon. Access to Observation Point

Cons

Difficult to reach trailhead.

Trailhead Elevation

6,520.00 ft (1,987.30 m)

Highest point

6,819.00 ft (2,078.43 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Horseback riding

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

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