Get your camera ready for a classic photograph at Court of the Patriarchs Viewpoint. See why this view of the looming Patriarchs peaks is one of the most iconic vistas in Zion National Park.
Begin at the Court of the Patriarchs shuttle stop. Hike east up to the viewpoint. The hike is really more of a short walk, as you can reach the viewpoint in less than 5 minutes. Enjoy an easy walk along the paved pathway. From the viewpoint, look over the trees to the mountains and canyon walls beyond. Check out the informational placards and learn about the geography that you’re looking at.
It’s impossible to miss the centerpiece of the viewpoint, the Patriarchs. The three neighboring sandstone peaks are named after fathers from the Old Testament. Pick them out from left to right, or south to north, as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. All three soar far above the surrounding rocks. Identify Mount Moroni, located in front of Jacob. Note the Sentinel, a flat-topped formation that guards the entrance to the canyon.
For a closer look at the Patriarchs, cross the street to the Sand Bench Trail. Trek along the moderately strenuous 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) loop trail. Enjoy similar views to those from the viewpoint, but with the bonus of a more memorable hike. The trail gets much less foot traffic than others in the area and you can even explore it on horseback.
Between March and October, you can access Zion Canyon and the viewpoint only via the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Get on the shuttle at the Visitor Center and take it to the third stop, Court of the Patriarchs. Take the shuttle to see some of Zion National Park’s highlights. The shuttle runs regularly, so disembark and explore the scenery at stops that interest you, and another shuttle will come along shortly.
