The Watchman Trail is a great little trail that, along with the Pa’rus bike trail, is just within the sanctuary of the park and often overlooked by Zion visitors, whose eyes are glued to the more famous attractions of the park, such as Angels Landing and the Narrows. Tourists drive by without ever realizing that The Watchman overlooks the entire Springdale area, and that the trailhead to the mountain’s overlook is just over half a mile away from the South Entrance to the park, making it the closest classic hike in the park, and ideal for a first-time visitor’s taste of Zion magnificence. This trail dies not actually climb the heights of the Watchman Spire itself, but contents visitors with a great view of the valley beneath its great stature. Not overly long, and climbing less than 400 feet in elevation, this trail is great for the Zion novice or veteran. The trail is surrounded by desert greenery on all sides. Hardy shrubs and evergreen trees give the occasional shade along the trail, and prickly pear cactus is prevalent—requiring parents to watch their little children closely. This trail is exposed to the strength of the sun for nearly the entire route, meaning that visitors should take plenty of water and avoid hiking during the afternoon heat of a summer day if they are unused to the Southern Utah climate.
