Deertrap Mountain Trail
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The rim edge near Deertrap Mountain has no guardrails or barriers — the sandstone can be slippery when covered in sand, and the drop into the canyon is hundreds of feet with zero margin for error.
Navigation can be tricky where the trail crosses open slickrock — look for cairns carefully, and download an offline map before you go since cell service is nonexistent out here.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start from the east side via the Stave Spring trailhead off Zion-Mount Carmel Highway — it cuts the approach significantly compared to coming from Weeping Rock.
Carry at least three liters per person; there's no reliable water source along the East Rim, and the exposed mesa terrain dries you out faster than you'd expect.
The best canyon views come in the final mile where the trail approaches the rim edge — don't turn around early thinking you've seen the payoff, because the last overlook into Zion Canyon is the real reward.
