Trail update: the Watchman Trail is currently closed pending repairs. Check the NPS current conditions page for the latest before you go.
Looking for a hike in Zion National Park that skips the crowds? The Watchman Trail is an often-overlooked, moderate hike that’s perfect for first-time visitors, with sweeping views over the Watchman, Springdale and the lower Zion Canyon.
On our last trip to Zion, we tackled plenty of the park’s best hikes, but the Watchman Trail quickly became one of our favourites. It starts right by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, so it’s ideally placed to be the first trail you hike in the park, and it’s far quieter than the big names (Angels Landing, we’re looking at you).
Here’s our guide to hiking the Watchman Trail, including the loop beyond the first viewpoint that most people miss.
To make sure you’re well prepared, read our list of things to know before travelling to Zion National Park.
The Watchman Trail: At a Glance
| Distance | 3.3 miles (5.3km) round trip, including the viewpoint loop |
| Elevation gain | About 480 feet to the viewpoint, plus around 80 feet on the loop |
| Time | 1 to 2 hours; it took us about an hour and a half |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trailhead | Zion Canyon Visitor Center |
| Shade | None |
| Dogs | Not allowed |
Hiking the Watchman Trail: In Detail
The Watchman Trailhead
The Watchman Trail starts at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, so there’s no shuttle to catch. From the visitor centre, follow the path through the plaza, past the shuttle stop and over the crosswalk, then head along the river. It’s well signed, so there’s little chance of getting lost.
The Watchman Trail Hike
The trail begins with a flat, fairly unglamorous stretch along the banks of the Virgin River. Carry on along this level section, then cross the road to where the climb, and the real fun, begins.
As you start to climb, get your camera ready for Bridge Mountain. The narrow path winds through desert plants and over plenty of small and medium-sized rocks, before zigzagging up a series of dusty switchbacks cut into the Moenave Formation, rock around 200 million years old.
If your legs are flagging, look up: the viewpoint is almost within reach. As you climb, the views open up to some of Zion’s most impressive peaks, including the West Temple, one of the tallest in Zion Canyon, and the rest of the Towers of the Virgin.
The Watchman Viewpoint
Follow the marked path to the top and you’ll reach a plateau below the Watchman. This is what you came for: sweeping views of the Watchman’s craggy summit, desert plants all around and more peaks in the distance.
But here’s a little secret: there’s more. Many people stop at this first plateau and call it a day, which we think is a big mistake. A short loop beyond it has even more spectacular views, and it’s the best part of the hike.
The Watchman Trail Loop
The loop is marked and easy to follow, and we’d recommend walking it anticlockwise. Many people miss it, which is a pity, as it arguably has the trail’s best views.
To the east are rugged mountains and canyons, at their best in the morning when the sun rises behind them. In the other direction, you can see Springdale and the visitor centre far below. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, or lunch if the sun isn’t too fierce.
On the way back round to the first plateau, Bridge Mountain is straight ahead, with the Watchman on your right. From the plateau, head back down the way you came.
Practical Tips for Hiking the Watchman Trail
- The trail is sandy, rocky and uneven in places, with some drop-offs, so wear hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip.
- There’s no shade at all, and we found it very hot. Set off early to beat the heat and the crowds, carry plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat.
- The trail can be muddy or icy in winter and during the summer monsoon season.
- Dogs aren’t allowed on the Watchman Trail. The Pa’rus Trail, which also starts near the visitor centre, is the only trail in the park where they can go.
The Watchman Hike, Zion National Park: FAQs
How Long is the Watchman Trail?
The Watchman Trail is a 3.3-mile (5.3km) round trip, including the loop at the top, and takes between one and two hours. It took us about an hour and a half.
How Hard is the Watchman Trail?
It’s a moderate hike that most people with a basic level of fitness can manage. You’ll climb about 480 feet to the viewpoint, plus a little more on the loop, mostly on switchbacks. The trickiest parts are the uneven, rocky ground and the heat.
When Should I Hike the Watchman Trail?
We hiked it on a very hot day, and with almost no shade, it was tough going. Go first thing in the morning, or in spring or autumn, when temperatures are lower, to avoid the worst of the heat and the risk of heatstroke or dehydration. See our guide to the best time to visit Zion for more.
