Are We There Yet?

Observation Point is one of Zion National Park's most spectacular viewpoints, offering a breathtaking panorama nearly 700 feet above the famous Angels Landing. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of Zion Canyon, the towering sandstone cliffs, and the Virgin River winding far below. Although reaching Observation Point requires a challenging hike, the dramatic scenery and sense of scale make it one of the park's most memorable destinations.

Watching the sunrise from Observation Point is an unforgettable experience. As the first light spills across Zion National Park, the towering sandstone cliffs glow in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, while the canyon floor slowly emerges from the shadows below. The peaceful stillness of the early morning, combined with panoramic views stretching across the entire canyon, creates a moment of extraordinary beauty.

For this shot we had an early 4:00 a.m. start, setting out on a 3.5-mile hike to reach our viewpoint before sunrise. As we drew closer, the sun began to rise to our left, illuminating the clouds with the most beautiful shades of pink. The final stretch of the hike turned into a jog as we raced the last half mile, determined not to miss the light.

We set up our cameras just in time and were rewarded with a spectacular display of pinks and golds that bathed the canyon before us. It was one of those magical mornings that makes every early alarm worthwhile. The hike back, however, was a good deal slower!