Eagle Crags

South of Rockville, a jagged line of sandstone pinnacles rises above the Virgin River valley: the Eagle Crags, a BLM landmark just outside Zion National Park's south entrance. The trail climbs through dusty hills and washes that flash flood in summer storms, gaining elevation steadily until it reaches broad ridges dotted with piñon pine and juniper.

From the high point near the crags, the view opens east toward Lake Creek Reservoir and the mouth of Parunuweap Canyon, where the East Fork of the Virgin River has cut a layered gorge through the sandstone. Reaching the trailhead takes some effort: from Rockville, Bridge Road becomes Eagle Crags Road, a rutted, rocky route that a high-clearance vehicle handles far better than a sedan, and one that can become impassable when wet.

Trail basics

• About 7.6 miles round trip with roughly 1,350 feet of elevation gain
• Best hiked February through November; avoid midday heat in summer
• An unmaintained route continues beyond the main trail toward Lower Mountain and Canaan Mountain for those wanting more