East Rim Trail

East Rim Trail Closed from Weeping Rock Through Echo Canyon

East Rim Trail is closed from Weeping Rock through Echo Canyon. It is currently not possible to traverse between Zion Canyon and the East Rim. The trail was heavily damaged by a major rockfall event.

 

The East Rim Trail starts at the East Entrance Trailhead and climbs up 1,000 feet onto the rim, offering views into Jolley Gulch and the east side slickrock areas. This area has no established campsites but does require a permit for overnight trips.

The first stretch of trail offers sweeping views of the slickrock areas on the east side before walking through a vast ponderosa forest. After you traverse this section, views of the Echo Canyon basin open up as you near the East Rim.

After hiking over the rim of the canyon, the trail sharply descends 2,300 feet down to the floor of Zion Canyon. This section passes through Echo Canyon, runs down the Observation Point Trail, and ends at Weeping Rock. Note that this section of the trail is indefinitely closed due to a major rockfall event.

This trail is best in the late spring and fall. The trail typically has deep snow in the winter that can remain until late spring. During the summer months, the trail can get very dry and hot. Be sure to bring proper water and gear for your trip.

 

East Side

As you leave from the East Rim Trailhead, the trail points directly toward the beautiful sandstone cliffs this area is famous for. The trail climbs up onto the plateau for the first three miles. Keep in mind that this stretch of the trail can be particularly dry and sunny.

 

Jolley Gulch

This unmistakable canyon seems to drop out beneath your feet as you see it from the trail. Located a couple miles from the East Rim Trailhead, it marks a great turnaround point for a shorter day hike from the East Entrance and back.

 

Ponderosa Forest

The middle section of the trail wanders across the plateau, where the elevation is higher and the weather is a little cooler than the main canyon. The trail passes through a ponderosa pine forest. These trees have colorful, fragrant bark — be sure to stop and give them a whiff! Learn more about ponderosa pines and other trees on our trees and shrubs page.

 

Echo Canyon

After crossing the flat plateau where ponderosa trees grow, the trail opens up with amazing views of the Echo Canyon Basin.

 

Observation Point Trail

As you drop down in elevation, you will eventually connect to the Observation Point Trail. The East Rim Trail continues down through the narrow section of Echo Canyon. This section of the East Rim Trail has a great view of a slot canyon.

 

Rock Cairn

The trail that passes through Echo Canyon crosses open slickrock at times where the trail is hard to follow so it is marked by stacks of rocks called "cairns". To avoid confusing others, do not create new cairns or destroy existing cairns. Always carry a good map with you and know how to read it to make sure you stay on the trail.

 

Water Sources

 

Stave Spring

Stave Spring is located near the junction of the East Rim Trail and Cable Mountain Trail. Spring water flows through a pipe in the ground. This spring is usually dry by early summer and is not a reliable water source.

Approximate Location
N 37°15'40.2"
W 112°54'17.1"
Elevation 6493 ft