7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah’s National Parks That Rival Angels Landing

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Observation Point Trail Zion National Park With Panoramic Canyon Views and 2100 ft Elevation Gain

The Observation Point Trail in Zion National Park provides a formidable yet richly rewarding hiking adventure. This trail demands a considerable physical effort, with a 2,100-foot elevation ascent over roughly four miles each way. From its perch high above the canyon's northern end, it delivers exceptional panoramic views. One of these views includes Angels Landing, a popular destination that appears dramatically smaller from Observation Point's vantage 1,000 feet above. Compared to some of Zion's more famous paths, such as Angels Landing, Observation Point typically experiences fewer crowds, making it a great option for those prioritizing solitude while enjoying stunning vistas.

The best time for this challenging hike is during the gentler weather of spring and fall. The summer months, however, are often too hot for many. For those seeking a less strenuous option to access scenic viewpoints, the East Mesa Trail offers an alternative route. It’s shorter at 7 miles round trip, and it includes a manageable elevation gain of 700 feet. Despite the lower elevation, this route still unveils the captivating beauty of Zion's canyons and rock formations, particularly the unique sandstone architecture of Echo Canyon. The trail itself is a test of one's fitness, but it's certainly within the reach of those who are in decent shape.

1. The Observation Point Trail in Zion, a roughly 8-mile round trip, presents a significant physical challenge with a 2,100-foot elevation gain, making it one of the more demanding trails within the park. This dramatic incline is directly related to the park's fascinating geological structure, which contributes to the breathtaking views.

2. The rock formations visible from the Observation Point are reportedly over 150 million years old, a testament to a rich geological history. Examining these features can give some insight into the slow and fascinating geological processes, such as sedimentation, that formed the prominent Navajo Sandstone.

3. From the Observation Point, you're presented with a stunning, wide-angle panorama of the Zion Canyon, dropping 2,000 feet down to the Virgin River. The view from up here enables one to study a diverse array of geological strata, including the Kayenta Formation and the harder Navajo Sandstone, a testament to the canyon's evolutionary story.

4. Due to its altitude, the trail is often less humid and cooler than the lower parts of the canyon. This can be a welcome change during the hotter months when temperatures at the canyon floor can soar over 100°F. However, don't expect the temperature to always be cool at the top; just that it will be cooler than below.

5. The unique color variations visible on the rocks are caused by iron oxides within the formations. The deep red hues of the Navajo Sandstone, in particular, are most vibrantly illuminated during sunrise and sunset, making these times ideal for photography. It is a spectacular natural display.

6. The path to Observation Point weaves through diverse habitats, from dry desert shrublands to forests of ponderosa pines, showcasing the area's impressive biodiversity. Several species of birds, some seen primarily at higher elevations, can be spotted along the way.

7. Despite providing equally impressive views, the Observation Point trail receives fewer visitors than Angels Landing. This makes it a more tranquil hiking experience, offering a welcome opportunity for those seeking a more solitary outing and more opportunities for reflection in the beauty of nature.

8. The physical exertion required to ascend the steep trail can be viewed as a workout for the heart and lungs, providing a good form of exercise, allowing hikers to enjoy the scenery while benefiting from a fitness perspective. It would be interesting to learn more about the specific benefits that such a hike might provide to cardiovascular health.

9. The construction and upkeep of the trail involved significant engineering challenges. The steep and rocky terrain required novel solutions in trail construction to assure hiker safety while causing minimal disturbance to the sensitive environment. There is always room for improvement in this type of design.

10. From Observation Point, one can witness how light, shadow, and color interact on the rock faces, presenting a constantly shifting landscape. The position of the sun and atmospheric conditions throughout the day all play a role in this shifting visual feast. It's a reminder of the ephemeral nature of such moments and the beauty of constantly changing natural scenes.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Observation Point Trail Zion National Park With Panoramic Canyon Views and 2100 ft Elevation Gain
2. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Grand Wash Capitol Reef National Park A 4-mile Round Trip Through Narrow Canyon Walls
3. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - False Kiva Canyonlands National Park Class II Archaeological Site With Desert Valley Views
4. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Murphy Point Overlook Canyonlands National Park 6-mile Round Trip With Green River Views
5. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Fairyland Loop Bryce Canyon National Park 8-mile Trail Through Pink Limestone Formations
6. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Bryce Canyon National Park Connecting Two Amphitheaters
7. 7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Broken Arch Loop Trail Arches National Park 2-mile Round Trip Through Desert Fins

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Grand Wash Capitol Reef National Park A 4-mile Round Trip Through Narrow Canyon Walls

Nestled within Capitol Reef National Park, the Grand Wash Trail presents a captivating 4-mile loop through a narrow canyon. The canyon walls, reaching impressive heights, create a dramatic and scenic hiking experience. A particularly striking part of this trail is the "narrows," a roughly half-mile stretch where towering sandstone cliffs frame the path.

The Grand Wash Trail is generally considered easy, with minimal elevation changes, making it a great option for a wide range of hikers. The trail can be accessed from two starting points: the Northeast Trailhead along Highway 24 or the Scenic Drive and Grand Wash Road. Most hikers complete the trek in around 1 hour and 42 minutes, though this can vary based on individual pace.

While the trail itself is relatively simple, hikers should be mindful of potential flash floods, which are a risk in this area. It's a good idea to check for weather warnings before heading out. Parking, especially at the more popular trailheads, can be scarce, so arriving early is often a necessity. If you're seeking a less crowded alternative to the more popular attractions in Utah's national parks, Grand Wash offers a unique and serene experience. It provides the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of a less-traveled canyon, without a major physical exertion. Also, consider exploring nearby Cassidy Arch for a more diverse hiking adventure if you find yourself with extra time.

The Grand Wash within Capitol Reef National Park offers a 4-mile roundtrip hike through a narrow canyon carved by erosion and time. The canyon walls, composed of ancient sandstone, rise hundreds of feet high, creating an awe-inspiring, enclosed environment. A particularly intriguing section, known as the "narrows," stretches for about half a mile and provides some of the most dramatic vistas.

Hikers can access the Grand Wash from two trailheads: one near Highway 24, east of the park's visitor center, and another located along the Scenic Drive near the Cassidy Arch Trailhead. The trail is generally easy to navigate with a modest change in elevation, making it suitable for people with diverse fitness levels. The typical hike takes roughly 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete, but individual pace influences the actual time required.


Parking near the Grand Wash can be a challenge, especially at the more popular trailheads. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. It's also crucial to be aware of the possibility of flash floods in the canyon, particularly after heavy rains. Checking for any flash flood advisories before embarking on the hike is essential for hiker safety.


Beyond the Grand Wash itself, visitors can also explore Cassidy Arch, a natural sandstone arch just a short distance from the trail. The arch is a testament to the area's unique geology and worth a visit if time allows. The entire landscape represents a fascinating story of the interplay between water, wind, and the rock. The various rock formations can be examined to see evidence of this, including the erosion that helped create this natural wonder. Examining the textures of the rock and imagining the natural forces at play is part of the fun of experiencing this landscape. It's a place to appreciate the slow yet powerful forces of nature.

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - False Kiva Canyonlands National Park Class II Archaeological Site With Desert Valley Views

Tucked away in the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, the False Kiva offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. This intriguing Class II archaeological site sits at an altitude between 5,278 and 5,702 feet, showcasing a curious human-made stone circle within a cave. Unfortunately, due to acts of vandalism, including graffiti and unauthorized fires, the site is now closed to direct access. Park rangers implemented barriers in August 2018 to protect the fragile archaeological site, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Despite the closure, the area remains a captivating destination. The 1.6-mile roundtrip hike is not particularly strenuous, yet it does involve a cumulative elevation gain of about 715 feet. Hikers are still able to approach the False Kiva, though they can only view it from a distance. The scenic vistas of the surrounding desert valleys are a reward for making the trek. Those who love photography find the landscapes are compelling, despite the barriers preventing closer inspection. Some even sense a particular spiritual ambiance here, making the hike not only a visual experience but also perhaps a contemplative one.

The False Kiva highlights a fascinating intersection of natural wonder and the traces of human history. While direct access is unfortunately not permitted, the hike and the views are an intriguing and worthwhile venture for those seeking unique experiences in Utah's stunning national parks.

### False Kiva: Canyonlands National Park's Enigmatic Archaeological Site

Located within Canyonlands National Park's Island in the Sky district, the False Kiva presents a fascinating glimpse into the past at an elevation ranging from approximately 5,278 to 5,702 feet. Classified as a Class II archaeological site, it's a human-made stone circle of unknown origin nestled within a cave.

While the exact purpose of this structure remains a mystery, its existence offers a compelling clue to the ingenuity and cultural practices of the ancestral Puebloan people who inhabited the region over a thousand years ago. Some speculate that it served as a ceremonial space like other kivas, while others propose it might have been a lookout point due to its vantage location on a cliff ledge.

Reaching the False Kiva involves a moderately challenging 1.6-mile round-trip hike on an unmaintained trail. However, it's important to note that the site itself is currently closed to the public due to vandalism. Barriers have been erected by the National Park Service, requiring visitors to view the alcove from a distance. This, unfortunately, prevents close examination of the site and limits opportunities for on-site research. The trail nevertheless still presents stunning views and invites quiet reflection on the historical significance of the area. The elevation gain during this hike is approximately 715 feet.

Despite limited access, the False Kiva draws photographers and hikers captivated by its beauty and the aura of mystery surrounding it. Its location amidst the Island in the Sky mesa yields a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding desert landscape. The cumulative effects of erosion are prominently visible on the site, providing opportunities to consider how climate shifts may have shaped the environment over time and possibly impacted the cultures who once thrived here.

The False Kiva, along with the various rock art panels in the vicinity, suggests a complex and integrated cultural tapestry. It also offers the opportunity to consider the interconnectedness of the landscape and the potential astronomical and mathematical understanding ancient people possessed of the surrounding environment. However, the site's potential for yielding further discoveries remains largely untapped, due to the lack of thorough excavation and documentation.

Furthermore, the False Kiva's secluded location, far removed from the park's more popular areas, makes it a great spot for stargazing, given minimal light pollution. It’s a compelling reminder of how the environment continues to inspire awe and inquiry, a sensation likely shared by those who inhabited the region millennia ago. Considering the estimated 300 million-year-old rock formations in the surrounding region provides even deeper insight into the age and dynamism of Canyonlands and the larger region. The interplay of history, nature, and culture makes the False Kiva a place worthy of appreciation and inspires curiosity.

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Murphy Point Overlook Canyonlands National Park 6-mile Round Trip With Green River Views

Murphy Point Overlook is a fantastic hiking spot in Canyonlands National Park, offering a manageable 6-mile roundtrip journey with stunning perspectives of the Green River. The trail, accessed from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center, is relatively flat with a minimal 142-foot elevation gain. This makes it a good choice for hikers who want a less physically demanding hike with great views. The trail rewards hikers with spectacular panoramas over Stillwater Canyon and the Green River, highlighting the natural beauty of the region. It's a great alternative to the larger crowds typically found on more popular trails. While the trail is generally easy, it becomes slightly rocky near the overlook, which adds a bit of a challenge for those who want it. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking weather, but you can enjoy the trails from March through November. Murphy Point is a delightful, slightly hidden gem in Canyonlands National Park, presenting stunning vistas without the large crowds.

Murphy Point Overlook within Canyonlands National Park offers a 6-mile round trip hike that reveals the impressive Green River and the surrounding canyon landscapes. The trail, while relatively easy, provides a chance to observe the diverse geological formations and layers that make up this region, giving insight into the history of the Colorado Plateau.

The trail's elevation change, around 142 feet, though modest, creates distinct microclimates and zones of plant life. It’s an example of how even subtle elevation changes can shape the environment and result in a mix of desert vegetation and canyon vistas. From this vantage point, it’s possible to appreciate the Green River, and see the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers, giving a sense of the region's complex hydrological systems.

The night sky above Murphy Point is renowned for its darkness, due to the minimal light pollution. This makes it an exceptional location for stargazing, providing a window into the wider universe. The surrounding rock formations, predominantly Navajo Sandstone, were formed from ancient desert environments over 190 million years ago. By observing the different layers of rock, you can learn more about how the landscape developed over time.

As you climb, you'll also notice a shift in vegetation – a prime example of ecological zonation based on elevation and exposure. Lower desert plants transition to higher-altitude shrubs and occasional trees. The sun's angle at dawn and dusk, in combination with the iron oxides in the rock, causes vibrant reds and oranges to paint the canyon walls. This colorful spectacle is a dynamic reminder of how geological and atmospheric elements influence the visuals.

Unlike some of the more crowded overlooks in the park, Murphy Point often draws fewer visitors. This provides a more serene and reflective experience. The trail itself was designed with minimal disturbance to the natural environment, integrating with natural pathways to ensure visitor safety while protecting the landscape. Studying the materials and construction methods would be useful to improve trail building practices and minimize any footprint.

Standing at Murphy Point allows you to visually retrace the ongoing story of this landscape. Wind, water, and the passage of time have worked tirelessly to sculpt the canyon as it looks today. You’re essentially witness to geological processes that have stretched over millions of years. These processes are a constant reminder of how the earth’s natural systems shape and reshape our environment.

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Fairyland Loop Bryce Canyon National Park 8-mile Trail Through Pink Limestone Formations

The Fairyland Loop trail within Bryce Canyon National Park is an 8-mile trek through a captivating landscape of pink limestone formations, commonly known as hoodoos. This moderately strenuous hike provides sweeping vistas of the renowned Bryce Amphitheater, immersing you in a surreal and stunning environment. While it's considered a moderately challenging trail, its popularity is often less than some of the other trails, which makes it a great choice for those looking to experience Bryce Canyon's beauty with fewer crowds. The elevation changes throughout the trail total roughly 1,580 feet, and it typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The best time to hike this route is during the spring and summer months, from April to July, when the weather is typically mild and pleasant. Be sure to pack enough water as the desert environment can be quite dry. Overall, this trail offers a good balance of challenging terrain with incredible beauty, making it a must-do for those seeking an experience beyond the typical tourist destinations.

The Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park offers an 8-mile journey through a landscape sculpted by erosion and time, showcasing the unique pink limestone formations known as hoodoos. The trail's 1,580-foot elevation change provides a good illustration of how the landscape formed. This dramatic change in elevation not only impacts the views but also the microclimates and vegetation zones along the trail, demonstrating the intricate relationship between geology and biology in this environment.

The vibrant pink and red hues of the hoodoos are primarily attributed to iron oxides and other mineral deposits within the limestone, a visual reminder of the diverse chemical processes that shaped the landscape. These colors appear most intense during dawn and dusk, when the angle of the sunlight enhances the rock's inherent coloration. The Fairyland Loop allows hikers to get up close and personal with the distinct layering of the canyon walls. Each layer represents a different era of geological history, offering a glimpse into millions of years of sedimentation and erosion.

The rock formations that define Bryce Canyon, and consequently, the Fairyland Loop, date back to the late Cretaceous period. This timeframe correlates with the flourishing of dinosaurs and is a fascinating reminder of the region's rich paleontological history, linking the landscape to a pivotal period in Earth's story. The trail is characterized by diverse vegetation, with changes in ecosystems corresponding to the fluctuations in elevation. This shows how microclimates can impact biodiversity even within a relatively small area.

It's noteworthy that the Fairyland Loop is a relatively less-visited trail compared to other popular hikes in the park, offering a more tranquil escape. This seclusion, coupled with the unique geological features, makes this trail ideal for both avid hikers and those who seek solitude in nature. Furthermore, the trail links up with the rim trail, affording remarkable views of the surrounding landscapes and valleys. This provides a broader understanding of the region's geological formations and the processes that formed the Paunsaugunt Plateau and the broader Bryce Canyon area.

The "Fairyland" name, coined by early explorers, aptly describes the surreal beauty of the hoodoos. This narrative adds a layer of human history to the geological wonder. Hikers conclude their journey with breathtaking vistas at Fairyland Point, which offer a panoramic perspective of the intricate terrain and erosional patterns, solidifying the scientific and aesthetic value of this remarkable location. It's important to note that the weather can change dramatically along this trail due to the variations in elevation. Consequently, hikers are advised to be prepared for shifting temperatures and potential weather changes, factors that also contribute to the diverse habitats that this trail supports.

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Bryce Canyon National Park Connecting Two Amphitheaters

Bryce Canyon National Park's Sunset Point to Sunrise Point hike provides a relatively easy way to experience the beauty of two of the park's most impressive amphitheaters. The roughly 1-mile round trip along the Rim Trail, the only paved portion of this trail system, makes it a very approachable hike for a wide range of visitors, including those with mobility limitations. From this relatively flat trail, hikers can gaze out over the canyon's famous hoodoos and take in the ever-changing landscape, particularly as the sun rises or sets, creating a dramatic and memorable visual experience. Sunrise Point, in particular, offers captivating vistas of geological features like Boat Mesa and the Pink Cliffs, further enriching the enjoyment of this walk. This relatively short hike is a good introduction to the beauty of Bryce Canyon, as it connects two of the park's most remarkable viewpoints in a way that makes the experience both enjoyable and accessible. It's unfortunate that a large part of this accessibility comes from the trail being paved, as it can take away from the rugged nature of the environment. Still, for people with limitations, this paved segment might be the only way to see this wonderful landscape.

The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point trail within Bryce Canyon National Park offers a relatively easy, paved walk along the rim, connecting two significant amphitheaters. While seemingly straightforward, this section of the Rim Trail reveals fascinating geological insights and ecological diversity.

The vibrant pink and orange hoodoos that dominate the landscape are roughly 60 million years old, formed during the late Cretaceous period when the Rocky Mountains were rising. These formations are a product of freeze-thaw erosion—a process where water seeps into rock cracks, freezes, expands, and ultimately weakens the rock structure. This contributes to the ever-shifting and sculpted nature of the landscape, readily visible along the trail.

The colors themselves are a result of oxidation, where minerals like iron and manganese react with oxygen and create diverse pigments. The angle of the sunlight throughout the day, particularly during sunrise and sunset, accentuates these vibrant shades. Photographers seek out these periods for capturing dramatic contrasts.

The trail's gradual ascent between Sunset Point, at about 8,300 feet, and Sunrise Point, at roughly 8,000 feet, is not overly strenuous, yet it influences the local climate and plants. As altitude increases, the types of vegetation change, showing a clear relationship between elevation and biodiversity. Instead of piñon pine and juniper trees found in lower areas, visitors see an abundance of wildflowers thriving in higher elevation regions.

The park’s trail design is meant to make the area easily accessible while also limiting environmental impact. It's a noteworthy engineering task due to the constant geological shifts within the park. The trail itself is roughly a 1.2-mile one-way trek and offers many excellent points to stop and soak in the stunning vistas.


The unique climate creates an interesting environment. Summer temperatures can be mild and around 80 degrees Fahrenheit but can plummet below freezing during winter. Hikers should adjust their gear and hydration plans accordingly.

The trail traverses varied ecosystems which leads to opportunities to spot a variety of animals. Mule deer, coyotes, and a diverse collection of bird species are commonly seen along the trail.

Bryce Canyon boasts the status of an International Dark Sky Park, providing remarkable opportunities to see the night sky. Both Sunset Point and Sunrise Point present perfect viewing spots for celestial wonders like the Milky Way.


Finally, while the present landscape is awe-inspiring, evidence of past human activity is also found. Indigenous peoples were using this land thousands of years ago. Though it is less common along this section of the trail, petroglyphs can be seen in surrounding regions. These remnants offer hints of a long-standing relationship between the land and its inhabitants.

In conclusion, the hike between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is a scenic exploration of geological wonders, ecological shifts, and potential glimpses into historical remnants. The trail's accessible nature and diversity make it a worthwhile destination for both avid hikers and those who simply appreciate breathtaking natural vistas and natural processes.

7 Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Utah's National Parks That Rival Angels Landing - Broken Arch Loop Trail Arches National Park 2-mile Round Trip Through Desert Fins

The Broken Arch Loop Trail within Arches National Park is a moderately challenging, 2-mile round-trip journey that allows hikers to experience the stark beauty of the desert environment. Starting near the Sand Dune Arch parking area, the trail offers views of both Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch, providing a fascinating look at the unique rock formations that characterize Arches National Park. While the trail is generally considered moderate, it does involve some scrambling, particularly near the campground area, adding a slight sense of adventure to the hike. The trail is a popular choice for families and those who enjoy a scenic, yet not overly strenuous, hike. For the more adventurous, extending the hike to include Tapestry Arch is a possibility, making for a more immersive experience of the landscape. This trail, despite its moderate difficulty, presents the grandeur of Arches National Park in a compact and accessible form, making it an excellent option for anyone visiting the Moab region of Utah.

The Broken Arch Loop Trail in Arches National Park presents a captivating 2-mile round trip adventure through a landscape shaped by the relentless forces of nature. This trail, often classified as a moderately challenging hike, is a good entry point for hikers seeking a taste of the park's unique desert fin scenery. The trail showcases the intricate geological story of this region, primarily composed of sandstone formed over hundreds of millions of years. The process of natural arch creation, visible in the Broken Arch itself, is readily observable.

One interesting aspect of the trail is how subtle changes in elevation lead to varied microclimates. Each of these zones supports unique desert plant life, highlighting the sensitivity of these ecosystems to even small changes in their environment. This environment and the rock's composition also produce a range of colors. Iron oxides are a primary cause for the striking reds and oranges of the rocks, which are most pronounced at dawn and dusk.

While the Broken Arch itself is a highlight, the surrounding environment is full of interesting features. The rock layers preserve evidence of past environments, including ancient dune fields and even evidence of past marine conditions from when this land was under water. These areas could be ripe for more research to uncover deeper insights into how the land and life here changed over millions of years.

The relatively easy length of the trail is a design choice that encourages access. It makes the Broken Arch Loop ideal for a broad range of hikers, including families and individuals not looking for a physically demanding journey. This feature likely increases access to the trail and also exposes more people to the value of protecting this environment.

Signs of human history are scattered along and near the trail, as well. The trail route overlaps with traditional human pathways, and artifacts found nearby suggest that indigenous peoples used this area for resources and transit. These discoveries reveal a historical interaction between humanity and this beautiful yet harsh environment.

Moving beyond the historical and human aspects, the changing sunlight also impacts the visitor experience. The sun's position throughout the day creates a constant shift in the visual dynamics of the landscape. As a consequence, it can dramatically reshape the apparent forms of the arches, illustrating how a relatively simple change like light can dramatically alter a visual experience.

Though generally a straightforward hike, the trail also includes slight elevation gains. These variations lead to several scenic viewpoints with diverse perspectives of the rock formations, arches, and surrounding landscapes. While this trail generally encourages broad access, it's important to note that the summer heat can be quite extreme, exceeding 100°F at midday. It's wise to plan for cooler parts of the day to explore the area and take in the most visually appealing conditions.