Stargazing at Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

Itinerary tips

• 1Arrive at the small parking lot just east of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel at least an hour before sunset to secure a spot.
• 2Pack a high-quality headlamp with a red-light mode to preserve your night vision and navigate the cliff-side sections safely.
• 3Plan for about 90 minutes of total time, including the 20-minute hike each way and ample time for long-exposure photography.
• 4Carry a lightweight folding chair or a thick sitting pad to stay comfortable on the uneven sandstone while waiting for the stars to emerge.
• 5Verify that the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway is open for your return trip, as nighttime construction can occasionally lead to road closures.
• 6Bring an extra warm layer even in summer, as temperatures on the exposed canyon rim drop significantly once the sun goes down.