Observation Point

This is an exhilarating hike to the highest vantage point in the park. Most people visit Observation Point by hiking up from the Weeping Rock trailhead in the main canyon. It’s a long slog to get there, with over 2100 feet of elevation gain; it feels more like a 10-miler than the actual 8 miles round-trip of the hike. Along the trail, you’ll pass an outstanding section of narrows at Echo Canyon (37.271001°, -112.932428°), with a deep slot below. There is a steep 1.5 miles of switchbacks past mile 2 (near the junction with the East Rim Trail) before you reach the plateau. This section can be hard under full sun. After another easy half-mile on level ground, you'll experience a distinct feeling of elation when you reach the end of the trail and take in the awesome view! The view of the canyon is stunning, although more distant and less central than the one from Angels Landing. Angels Landing actually looks surprisingly low from here. The view to the left is of the top of Cable Mountain and the Great White Throne. Count on about a 4 to 6 hours round-trip from the Weeping Rock trailhead.

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