West Rim Overnight itinerary
The stops on the West Rim Overnight route, in order, with the elevation at each one, and which permit each stretch needs. To set alerts for your dates, go to the West Rim Trail Overnight permit page.
Which permit covers this route
The West Rim Overnight. One reservation is an ordered sequence of nights at named sites, issued by reservation.
- Stops mapped
- 10
- Published route length
- 14 mi
- Published ascent
- 1,200 ft
How long it takes: 1-2 nights. That is the figure the permit publishes. This page does not divide the route into days, because no source records which stop you sleep at.
The stops below are listed in route order. The mile figures published for them do not fit one line along the route, so this page leaves them out rather than print a distance that puts a stop in the wrong place.
The West Rim Overnight route, stop by stop
Stop 1
7,890 ft
Lava Point Trailhead
Starting point. Primitive campground available. Road closes in winter.
Stop 2
7,153 ft
Sawmill Springs
First water source on the route. Flow varies. Check at the Wilderness Desk and carry the full day.
Stop 3
7,200 ft
West Rim Viewpoint
First dramatic views into Zion Canyon.
Stop 4
7,300 ft
Campsites 1-4
Northern campsites in forest setting with developing views.
Stop 5
6,800 ft
Potato Hollow Spring
Water at the low point of the trail. Flow varies. Check at the Wilderness Desk before you plan around it.
Stop 6
6,716 ft
Cabin Spring
Last water before the descent. Flow varies. Check at the Wilderness Desk and carry the full day.
Stop 7
6,781 ft
Campsites 5-9
Prime rim-edge campsites with sunset views.
Stop 8
5,350 ft
Scout Lookout
Above Angels Landing. Permit check point.
Stop 9
5,000 ft
Walter's Wiggles
21 carved switchbacks descending to canyon floor.
Stop 10
4,300 ft
The Grotto
Shuttle Stop 6. End point with restrooms.
Getting a West Rim Overnight for the dates you want
Planning the route is the easy half. West Rim Overnight dates go fast, and the ones that come back are cancellations. They return to the booking system without warning and are gone again quickly. PermitSnag checks West Rim Overnight around the clock and alerts you the moment a date opens.