The Watchman

The Watchman Trail climbs out of the visitor center area on the south end of Zion Canyon, switchbacking up a dry, sun-exposed slope to a plateau with views back down over Springdale and up at the peak called the Watchman. It's a 3.3-mile round trip with a steady, moderate climb — no technical difficulty, but bring water and expect full sun for most of the route.

Good to know

• Trailhead is a short walk from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, near the park's south entrance — no shuttle needed
• Dogs are not permitted on this trail
• Little shade; best done early morning or late afternoon in summer