Weeping Rock Hike
View PhotosWeeping Rock Hike
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This short, steep trail leads to the scenic and secluded Weeping Rock. A natural spring in the rock, the overhanging cave plays host to a plethora of hanging plants. This is a beautiful place to hangout on a hot summer day!
IMPORTANT: This trail is currently closed due to rockfall damage that took place in August of 2019. It will reopen after repairs, but the time is still unknown.
Getting there
To get to the Weeping Rock Trailhead, enter Zion National Park from the town of Springdale. If possible park near the visitors centre just past the park gates. If that lot is full, park in the town of Springdale and get the free shuttle bus to the visitors centre. From the visitors centre take the other free shuttle bus into Zion Canyon. For most of the year the canyon is not open to public vehicles. Exit the bus at the Weeping Rock bus stop.
About
When to do | Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat |
Backcountry Campsites | None |
Toilets | At trailhead |
Family friendly | Yes |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate to High |
Route Type | Out and back |
Weeping Rock Hike
Elevation Graph
Weather
Weeping Rock Hike Description
This short hike to Weeping Rock begins across the small footbridge from the parking area. Turn left at the junction and begin up the somewhat steep, paved path as it heads towards the alcove. Though this trail is steep, it is also almost completely shaded, allowing hikers to take many breaks if they get tired.
As you reach the rock you will be able to hear the water trickling off the cliff. Like rain coming down, the water – which comes from Echo Canyon high above – will sprinkle over your shoulders and head. It seeps into the porous sandstone and descends through the cliff until it reaches a layer it cannot permeate. From here it gets pushed out to the cliff face and forms the spring that is present to this day.
Many plants and mosses hang onto the cliff face, soaking up this rare consistent water source. Additionally from this perch, you will have great views across the valley of the sheer cliffs lining Zion Canyon.
Trail highlights
Weeping Rock
One of the main highlights that can be found in Zion Canyon, Weeping Rocks is an eroded, bowl-shaped cliff featuring a stream of water that seeps out from between two different strata of sandstone. This constant stream of water has the effect of creating a year-round spring that brings life to the hanging gardens in the area.
Although there are many such cliffs that can be found throughout the American southwest, Weeping Rock is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its large size and ease of accessibility.
Find other spectacular hikes in Zion:
Insider Hints
This hike is best enjoyed in the middle of a hot day, as the cool shade and sprinkling water are much desired.
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leo_Martini 4 years ago
It was an unforgettable experience. I wish we could have stayed longer.
Frank M. 4 years ago
This steep trail is so short and a nice way to cool off under the weeping rock, I'd definitely do it again.
Sally Walters 5 years ago
An easy hike to refresh yourself :)
Otis 6 years ago
nice place to hide from the cruel sun and refresh a little
SteffWilk 6 years ago
Not really my thing I guess..
Jane 6 years ago
nice little walk. Can't see why it attracts so many people though.
Burokai 6 years ago
We've visited it on our way to Hidden Canyon. Nice to see, doesn't take too much time. I didn't find anything special about it but others around were telling how amazed they were so I don't know, maybe it's just me