If you are planning on staying in the Driftwood Lodge located just outside Zion National Park, you are probably eager to hike to the high peaks and beautiful lookout points that the park is famous for.

A great alternative to some of the more populated hikes like Angel’s Landing is Observation Point. This hike is eight miles northeast from Driftwood Lodge. Compared to Angels Landing, it’s less crowded, wider, and you don’t need a chain link railing to stay balanced. Another great perk Observation Point has is a larger area at the top of the peak to look out, enjoy a snack or two, and get the ultimate and stunning picture you and your kids have been waiting for all week.

Although it is an 8-mile round trip, you get great views of the entire canyon including Angels Landing below. For this hike, be sure to take one of the first shuttles of the day, bring plenty of water, and remember sunscreen as there aren’t many shaded areas on the trail.