Among the West’s most enduring, iconic sights are the amazing patterns in the vertical cliff face of Big Bend Viewpoint, testifying to millions of years of hard work by the river that flows past its base. Meandering through much of Zion National Park in southwest Utah, the Virgin River is at its most picturesque here, gurgling happily through the canyon it created. Get iconic photos of the colored stripes of minerals amid the ochre-red cliffs. Stop for a snack while enjoying a view along one of the hikes passing through the area on your visit to Big Bend Viewpoint.
Bring a camera for the perfect shot of the contrasting colors of sky, cliff and river. Images are particularly striking at sunrise and sunset. At any time, look down at the water rushing just below. Imagine how the landscape and the world have changed since the days when the river first started carving out its path in the rock that is now so far above the valley.
If you want to hike, reach Big Bend Viewpoint by following one of several trails zigzagging across ridges and through valleys of the park. Set off on the East Rim Trail, a 10-mile (16-kilometer) path offering great views of the river and the canyon. The 5-mile (8-kilometer) Angels Landing Trail goes over tall cliffs. Bring a zoom lens to photograph the ant-sized people milling down below.
For a short stroll, head north about 0.5 mile (0.8 kilometer) along the road to Menu Falls, a charming alcove whose waters spill down into the river below.
Big Bend Viewpoint is just off Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in Zion National Park, a 20-minute, 7-mile (11-kilometer) shuttle ride from the park’s Visitor Center. Camp in the park or choose from several hotels just outside the park entrance.
During peak season, private vehicles are not allowed on the Scenic Drive but the park’s shuttle bus system stops every 7 to 10 minutes at the Big Bend spot. There is a free shuttle from Springdale to the park’s pedestrian entrance.
Pay the entrance fee for a 1-week vehicle or pedestrian pass or annual national park pass.
