The Watchman Trail climbs a series of moderate switchbacks to a bluff beneath Bridge Mountain that provides sensational, panoramic views of lower Zion Canyon. Many notable landmarks are visible throughout this hike.

Morning revelers will enjoy well-lit westerly views of The West Temple (7,800'), The Sundial 7,590'), Altar of Sacrifice (7,505'), The Beehives and Meridian Tower (7,340'). These landmarks collectively form a remarkable south-north formation known as the Towers of the Virgin.

Late afternoon visitors will enjoy a surreal illumination of Bridge Mountain (6,803') and the formidable Watchman Spire (6,545').

The trail begins on a flat path that closely follows the Virgin River for a short time. It crosses a service road at .25 miles and begins a winding, steady climb up the hillside. While the trail itself is well-groomed and rather featureless, views in all directions improve with each step. Of note are a few mature prickly pear patches and a nicely vegetated drainage crossing near the trail's end.

The main trail ends on a flat, red-dirt bluff high above the canyon floor (1.4 miles : 4,405'). Views in all directions are incredible, and a good map will help you identify the many named landmarks visible from this position.

A few additional steps lead to an optional .4 mile loop trail that circles the bluff area. It's well worth exploring this easy (albeit more rugged) loop, for the additional perspective on the area it provides.

For the restless, The Watchman Trail is also a terrific full-moon hike!