West Rim to Telephone Canyon Loop

The West Rim / Telephone Canyon Loop is a 19-mile route in Zion National Park. It starts from Lava Point, located off of Kolob Terrace Road, and extends south making a loop by connecting the West Rim and Telephone Trails. This route features incredible views of colorful canyons, unique geology and rock formations. The trail is open to runners, hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. 

Taking the West Rim Trail south from Lava Point, you will traverse a high alpine environment along the Horse Pasture Plateau. The terrain  is mostly flat, aside from a short dip in and out of Potato Hollow. 

Following Potato Hollow, you will reach a junction with the Telephone Canyon Trail. Keep to the left to remain on the West Rim Trail. This section of the West Rim Trail provides spectacular views of Phantom Valley, Castle Dome, and several other colorful canyons to the south. 

After Cabin Spring, you'll rejoin the Telephone Canyon Trail and follow it north through an open meadow. At the northern end of Telephone Canyon, you will rejoin the West Rim Trail and retrace your steps back to Lava Point. 

WHEN TO VISIT

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to hike this trail. In winter, the trail is typically covered in snow, which may persist until early spring. 

PERMITS

Zion National Park requires a permit for overnight backpacking. Information can be found through the NPS- Backpacking Reservation Guide.

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING 

There are 9 backcountry campsites featured along this route. Camping is only allowed in designated sites.

• Campsite #1 - First-come, first-serve, walk-in basis (backcountry permit still required). 

**This is the only campsite featured on the Telephone Canyon Trail.**

• Campsite #2 - Available through the online reservation system. 

• Campsite #3 - First-come, first-serve, walk-in basis (backcountry permit still required). 

• Campsite #4 - Available through the online reservation system. 

• Campsite #5 - First-come, first-serve, walk-in basis (backcountry permit still required). 

• Campsite #6 - Available through the online reservation system. 

• Campsite #7 - First-come, first-serve, walk-in basis (backcountry permit still required). 

• Campsite #8 - Available through the online reservation system. 

• Campsite #9 - First-come, first-serve, walk-in basis (backcountry permit still required). 

CONSIDERATIONS

• Be prepared for quickly changing weather in the park. 

• Check updated water reports and make sure to bring enough water and food with you. 

• In the summer, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees in the lower elevations. 

LAVA POINT TRAILHEAD

The Lava Point Trailhead is located off Kolob Terrace Road and has parking, picnic tables, and a campground (campground is usually open from May to September).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Zion Information Guide

Lava Point Campground