Zion National Park's Hike Scout Lookout Unveiled
Hiking to Scout Landout in Zion National Park:
Ready for a killer workout with breathtaking views? Scout Landout, the closest hike to Angel's Landing without a permit, is your ticket! The West Rim Trail, the route we'll take, will lead us straight up Zion Canyon's side, and trust me, you'll sweat for those majestic vistas!
Once we conquer that steep incline, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Zion and a front-row seat to watch thrill-seekers tackling the chains on Angel's Landing. Although it's challenging and requires some effort, this hike skips the scary edges, narrow chain sections, and permit headaches that come with Angel's Landing.
Where to Start:
Start your journey at The Grotto, a popular spot accessible via shuttle bus during most of the year. In the off-season, you can drive and park at The Grotto Picnic Area. Here's the Shuttle Schedule and Route, or you can get directions to drive[3]. The Grotto offers restrooms and water refills.
Gear Up:
Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack. Light, tough, and keeps my back dry with the trampoline mesh.
Equip yourself with fitness clothing or light hiking gear. Bring at least 1L of water and brace yourself for a sweaty climb. Although the trail is steep, the pavement on most of it makes it tough for trekking poles to dig in[4].
Top Gear Picks for the Hike:
Norda 001 - Like a monster truck and a comfy pillow had a featherweight baby, for your feet.
- Osprey Hikelite 26 - A reliable daypack that's light, durable, and keeps your back dry with its trampoline mesh[6]
- Norda 001 - Comfy, light footwear that offers the cushioning of a monster truck, perfect for your feet[7]
- Garmin inReach Mini 2 - Your go-to device when you need 100% reliable SOS coverage in the backcountry[8]
- AllTrails Plus [30% off link] - Keeps you up-to-date with trip reports, offline maps, and off-trail alerts[9]
- Garmin Fenix 8 - An updated watch that's rock-solid for me, offering excellent maps, tracking, and routing[10]
For more info on why I love these items, check out my Top Gear Picks page (last updated June 2025)[11].
Garmin inReach Mini 2 - When I need 100% reliable SOS coverage, this is what I take in the backountry.
Trail Maps:
- View Hike on CalTopo - Scout your path on a detailed online map[12]
- Download the GPX File - Save your route for future reference[13]
AllTrails Plus - (30% off link) Up-to-date trip reports. Plus adds offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync.
Elevation Profile and 3D Map:
- View Elevation Profile - Prepare yourself for the obstacles ahead[14]
- 3D Map - Get a bird's eye view of the trail[15]
Garmin Fenix 8 - Took a few updates to get right, but now it's rock solid for me. I use it for maps, tracking, and routing.
Hike Directions:
Cable Mountain's history dates back to 1901 with a cable car that transported lumber 2,000 feet down the canyon. It lasted until 1927 when it stripped the land of lumber and closed[5].
During your hike, be mindful along Refrigerator Canyon. It's home to the threatened Mexican Spotted Owl—an owl that shouldn't miss out on its beauty sleep due to loud noises[2].
If nature calls, restrooms are conveniently located behind the last photo on this trail[2].
Happy hiking, adventurers!
- Embarking on the West Rim Trail toward Scout Landout in Zion National Park promises a strenuous yet rewarding hike with unparalleled vistas.
- To prepare for this trek, equip yourself with light hiking gear, water, and a reliable daypack like the Osprey Hikelite 26 to keep your back dry.
- Consult topographic maps or use digital tools like AllTrails Plus for up-to-date information and offline maps to safely navigate the trails.
- Remember, outdoor enthusiasts should respect the environment by following trail rules, being aware of wildlife, and giving consideration to other hikers, enhancing the overall hiking lifestyle and travel experience.
