West Rim Trail

The trail starts at the West Rim trailhead from near Lava Point and traverses across the high alpine elevation with sweeping views out into the Wildcat Canyon area for the first 6.5 miles as you drop into Potato Hollow. Next the trail climbs out of Potato Hollow before it splits into the Telephone Canyon Trail and the West Rim Trail. The West Rim Trail follows along the rim with views of Phantom Valley and the canyons to the south. The Telephone Canyon Trail provides a shortcut between Potato Hollow and Cabin Spring or a possible loop for hikers entering and exiting the same trailhead. At Cabin Spring the trail begins a steep drop in elevation and descends 2,500 feet over 4.7 miles ending at the Grotto Picnic Area. This trail is best in the late spring, summer, and fall. The trail typically has deep snow in the winter that can remain until late spring. Camping is in designated sites only.

 

West Rim Campsite: 1

Maximum Group Size Limit: 12
Availability: First-Come, First-Serve, Walk-In Basis
Permits must be obtained in person the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: The only site along the Telephone Canyon Trail, site #1 is a short walk from Cabin Spring and offers distant views of the Dixie National Forest and northern regions of Zion.

 

Campsite #1 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 2

Maximum Group Size Limit: 2
Availability: Online Calendar Reservation
Learn how to make an Online Reservation before your trip. Reservations must be converted into permits the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This site is small and secluded, located near Cabin Spring.

 

Campsite #2 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 3

Maximum Group Size Limit: 4
Availability: First-Come, First-Serve, Walk-In Basis
Permits must be obtained in person the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This site has great rim views and is approximately one mile from Cabin Spring.

 

Campsite #3 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 4

Maximum Group Size Limit: 12
Availability: Online Calendar Reservation
Learn how to make an Online Reservation before your trip. Reservations must be converted into permits the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This is a large site that can accommodate a group and has great views of the deep canyons below the rim.

 

Campsite #4 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 5

Maximum Group Size Limit: 4
Availability: First-Come, First-Serve, Walk-In Basis
Permits must be obtained in person the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This scenic site is about two miles from Cabin Spring and allows campers to enjoy sights both to the east and west.

 

Campsite #5 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 6

Maximum Group Size Limit: 6
Availability: Online Calendar Reservation
Learn how to make an Online Reservation before your trip. Reservations must be converted into permits the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This scenic site is close to the junction of Telephone Canyon and the West Rim Trail.

 

Campsite #6 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 7

Maximum Group Size Limit: 4
Availability: First-Come, First-Serve, Walk-In Basis
Permits must be obtained in person the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: The site is just a few minutes walk from Potato Hollow Spring (which is not a reliable source of water).

 

Campsite #7 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 8

Maximum Group Size Limit: 6
Availability: Online Calendar Reservation
Learn how to make an Online Reservation before your trip. Reservations must be converted into permits the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: This site is located behind Potato Hollow Spring, which is not a reliable source of water. This site also provides views of upper Imlay Canyon to the east.

 

Campsite #8 and view from the site

 

West Rim Campsite: 9

Maximum Group Size Limit: 6
Availability: First-Come, First-Serve, Walk-In Basis
Permits must be obtained in person the day before, or day of the trip during regular Hours of Operation from the Wilderness Desk.
Site Description: To access this site follow the sign off the West Rim trail to "Sawmill Spring". The northernmost site on the West Rim Trail, campsite #9 is only about a mile from Lava Point.

 

Campsite #9 and view from the site

 

Water Sources

 

Cabin Spring
The spring is located near campsites #1 and #2 near the edge of the canyon rim. It is a seep from the ground that collects in a small pool. Usually has a small flow year-round.

Approximate Location
N 37°17'15.2"
W 112°58'04.2"
Elevation 6736 ft

 

Potato Hollow Spring
The spring is located near campsite #7 and #8 in the bottom of Potato Hollow. It is a seep from the ground that pools in a few areas. Usually is dry by mid to late summer. Not a reliable water source.

Approximate Location
N 37°19'15.0"
W 112°59'14.4"
Elevation 6760 ft

 

Sawmill Springs
The spring is located near campsite #9 and close to the West Rim Trailhead. It is a seep from the ground that pools in a few areas. Usually is dry by early to mid summer. Not a reliable water source.

Approximate Location
N 37'22'06.2"
W 113'01'02.0"
Elevation 7173 ft

 

Basic Backpacking Information

 

Wilderness Trail and Campsite Descriptions

 

Backpacking Safety and Regulations

 

Water Sources in Zion

 

Make a Reservation for a Backpacking Permit