Better than Angels Landing, this hike leads you to the highest viewpoint in Zion.  No permit required!

If you're in Zion, this hike is a must do. Although getting to the (open alternate) trailhead can be rough.

First drive outside the park to the East Mesa trailhead - down a short rough dirt road. 4x4 advised!

This 3.5 mile (one way) route is fairly simple, but also there's not a lot to see along the way.

But around 2 - 2.5 miles in, you begin to see your first glimpes of the views!

The last mile is the hardest with the elevation gain. Around 700ft down to the viewpoint.

You've almost reached the end when your first major dropoff viewpoint faces the west! Hold your breath!

But the final viewpoint is the one that takes your breath away!

From here you are officially over a mile above sea level, 6,500 feet up. Revel in these views!

This viewpoint towers over Angels Landing, around 800 feet higher! If you look closely, you can see the few Angels Landing hikers.

Views like this are hard to put into words, and even photos don't do it justice. But it's definitely fun to try.

We did this hike for sunset on a weekend, and only saw one other group of friends. So it's definitely a great less crowded option.

Hands down the best viewpoint in Zion National Park, even better than Angels Landing!

Find me on Instagram here -> @seanchess

PROS:

The best views in Zion!

Less crowded than every other hike.

No permit required! Completely free.

CONS:

Not easy to find (trailhead outside Zion National Park).

Crazy weather and small crowds possible.

The hike is boring, but the viewpoint is epic.