Overview: A series of long, mild switchbacks follows an old logging road around minor canyon rims and through pinyon/oak forests to gain the top of the mesa. From the high point, the trail passes Stave Spring and turns back up to Deertrap and Cable Mountains. After the next fork, the trail coasts mostly downhill through low, thick forests to a historic cableworks on the edge of Cable Mountain. Carefully peer over the edge and imagine the ride fallen timber enjoyed down to the valley floor below...
Trailhead: From Springdale, drive into the Park and pass the left-hand turn-off for the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Instead, continue straight, up numerous switchbacks, and through the incredible Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Continue up the road, twisting and turning around fins of rock, through another short tunnel and past the immense Checkerboard Mesa. Just before the East Entrance Station, turn left onto a narrow road and drive a short distance to a dirt parking lot and picnic area, which serves as your trailhead.
Mileage: 8.5 miles (13.7 km), one-way; 17.0 miles (27.4 km), round-trip
Elevation Gain: 771 feet (234.4 km)
Approximate Hike Time: 4 - 6 hours, one-way; 8 - 11 hours, round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate, with long, gradual climbs
Best Times of Day: Higher altitudes help moderate daily high temperatures, but this hike can still be sweltering. Try to leave early (5 - 7am) during summer for comfortable temperatures and phenomenal light. Winter hikers should check conditions at the Visitor's Center; hiking mid-day should reduce any icy sections of trail.
Best Times of Year: Fall brings moderate temperatures and dry trails to the eastern mesas.
Crowds: East Rim hikes are some of the least traveled in the Park.
Water Sources: Once-reliable Stave Spring has faltered in recent years. Check the Visitor's Center for up-to-date information.
Camping: Most areas along this trail are under "open camping" designation; you have the responsibility (and opporutnity!) to select your own campsite. Out of courtesy to other hikers, please camp at least 200 yards away from any trail or water source. Camping is not permitted near Stave Spring or along the rim of Cable Mountain. Over-night backcountry permits are available at the Visitor's Center near Springdale.
Don’t Miss:
- Carefully take a moment to peer down into Jolley Gulch as it cuts through the trail and drops dramatically into a carved, smooth abyss of sandstone and verticality.
- Take a moment to look up from the cableworks and valley below to see awesome views of Clear Creek Mountain, Cogswell Point, the Pink Cliffs, and the mountains of the Markagunt Plateau above the northern foreground.
Special Notes:
