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 Reporter |
Summary: If you collect peaks, you should know that this trail does not lead to The Watchman (elevation 6545) but to a much lower mesa overlooking the Visitor Center. Ordinary folks will find this trail challenging and the views memorable, particularly as they regard how far they've risen above the trailhead and the Visitor Center. Shade is not a virtue of this trail as it passes through a rugged pinyon-juniper woodland to a vista point with views well beyond the edges of the park. Water is negligible. Your rugged ascent ends beyond the switchbacks: the trail to the overlook is extremely easy if you pace yourself. Among the features you can see from the overlook are the Altar of Sacrifice, the Water Temple, the Towers of the Virgin, the Beehives, and, of course, the Watchman. Best times for the trail are sunset or morning, when the light saturates the deep oxblood and rust hues of the cliffs. Trailhead: The Zion Canyon Visitor Center crops up just north of the Springdale Park Entrance on Utah Highway 9. From the Visitor Center, walk northwest past the shuttle bus stop. The Watchman Trail begins at the bridge next to the shuttle bus stop and follows the Virgin River and then abruptly turns to the right to ascend a small hill before entering a box canyon that leads to the switchbacks that will take you to the Watchman Overlook. Like all Zion Canyon trails, you must remember that you are in a desert. Bring water, a hat, and a pole for negotiating the steep portions of this trail. (Lat:37.2014 Lon:-112.9857) Trail Guides for The Watchman, Zion NP: Utahs National Parks by Adkison (Wilderness Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Zion National Park, (435)772-3256 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joel Sax, who has posted 51 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Tanya on 12/14/2004 The Watchman is not a favorite in Zion, but it does have its appeal. As a winter hike it is a gem. If you have the urge to hike in the cold months the Watchman is an ideal choice. The trail is in full sun so snow and ice are not an issue. The south side of the park is set at a lower elevation which is also agreeable with winter conditions. http://www.zionnational-park.com Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Utah Hiking, Utah Trails, Utah Hikes, Washington County Hiking, Washington County Trails, Washington County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
