The Watchman Trail is one of the less popular trails in Zion National Park. Visitors often skip this trail on their way to see other landmarks in Zion such as Observation Point and Angles Landing. This trail isn’t the most exciting in Zion nor does it offer the best viewpoint, but it is often less crowded than other areas of the park. It also provides a great view of lower Zion Canyon.
The Watchman Trail is about three miles round trip and climbs 400 feet in elevation. Avoid hiking this trail in the middle of the day during summer months as there is little to no shade.
The Watchman Trail starts near Zion National Park Visitor Center located close to the South Entrance of the park. The trail begins by heading east, following the Virgin River for 1/4 mile before turning south and crossing a service road. After crossing the road the trail gets more strenuous as you begin to gain elevation for the next mile. You will climb a series of switchbacks as you approach the overlook at the top of the mesa.
At the Watchman Overlook you can get great views of the town of Springdale, the Towers of the Virgin, and Watchman Peak. From here you can take the short loop at the top of the mesa. This allows you you to get better views to the south. Finish the hike by returning back to the Visitor Center from the way you came.
Trailhead
The trailhead for the Watchman Trail is located near the Zion National Park Visitor Center across from the shuttle stop.
