You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
EXPLORE<br />
FAVORITE TRAIL<br />
Observation<br />
Point <strong>Trail</strong><br />
ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAH<br />
PHOTO BY FRED MARMSATER<br />
RUNNER: Joe Grant, 34, of Gold Hill, Colorado<br />
BETA: Observation Point is a spectacular trail located<br />
in the heart of Zion National Park. The high point sits<br />
at 6,508 feet, with 2,100 feet of elevation gain from<br />
the Weeping Rock <strong>Trail</strong>head.<br />
The trail climbs steadily from the start, up a<br />
number of switchbacks. It can be sandy in spots,<br />
but is mostly paved, making for good footing and<br />
efficient upward progress. (Do not be deterred by<br />
the pavement, as it is broken up and blends quite<br />
naturally with the surrounding environment.)<br />
One of the highlights of the ascent is Echo Canyon,<br />
a soaring, red-rock-lined slot canyon. If water is<br />
running, take a quick (refreshing!) dip to stave off the<br />
heat on this otherwise exposed run.<br />
Bring lots of water as sources on the trail are unreliable<br />
and, if available, need to be treated or filtered.<br />
PRO TIP: Bring a headlamp and time your run<br />
for sunset at Observation Point, which will offer<br />
incredible views and light looking back toward Angels<br />
Landing, a jutting fin of sandstone in the center of<br />
the canyon. Running back down the trail at night<br />
is a unique experience, but watch your footing,<br />
particularly on the upper sections above cliffs.<br />
DISTANCE: Eight miles, round trip.<br />
SEASON: Year round but preferable in early spring<br />
or fall. The summers can get very hot and crowded.<br />
Remember to plan your return around the shuttle<br />
schedule, or tack on some flat cruiser miles to get<br />
back to your vehicle.<br />
INFORMATION: Between April 1 and October 30,<br />
the Weeping Rock <strong>Trail</strong>head is accessed via shuttle.<br />
You can drive to the trailhead the rest of the year,<br />
although you will likely encounter snow and ice on<br />
the trail during the winter months.<br />
www.zionnational-park.com/zion-observation-pointtrail.htm<br />
SPONSORED BY<br />
The Alpine Start Hoody is a pareddown<br />
protective layer, designed to<br />
shield the minimalist climber against<br />
ridgeline gusts and intermittent<br />
precipitation. The ultra-packable<br />
design incorporates a self-stowing<br />
chest pocket for easy storage on your<br />
harness or in your pack.<br />
The Bbee 11 is an ultralight pack for<br />
long runs and ridgeline scrambles,<br />
the Bbee 11 is the embodiment of<br />
minimalism.<br />
blackdiamondequipment.com
Change language