WatchmanHiking Difficulty
Moderate
Length
1.60 mi
Trail Traffic
Light
Route Type
Loop
Highlights
Trail Surface
Native
Accessibility
Bathrooms Available
Suitability
Recommended Use
Hiking
Directions
To access the trail, from the Visitor’s Center, simply walk towards Route 9 and you’ll see the Trailhead on the northside of the road (across the street from the shuttle stop). If you’re on the Trail with children, just be aware of the cliff edges and prickly pear cactus
Description
A good “primer” to Zion National Park, the Watchman Trail is an easily-accessed loop starting by the Visitor’s Center (so no need to wait for a shuttle) and takes you up to to the first layer of cliffs on Watchman Mountain. This is a pleasant hike for families, with lots of variety and some impressive views along the way. Be sure to stop by the overlook to get a panoramic view of the west side of Zion. Most finish this in the morning and still have the rest of the day to explore other parts of the park. Because it’s such an easy-to-access hike, and especially great for those new to the park, or to hiking, there is typically some traffic on the trail. Also, before 9 am, the trail is almost entirely in shade, but afterward you’ll get lots of sun exposure. This is definitely a trail you want to do in the morning.
Pictures
