The East Rim Trail is an excellent example of Zion's wilder, less populated experience. The trail is 7.8 miles to the intersection with the Observation Point Trail, then another 3.5 miles to the Scenic Drive. Hikers can choose from doing an out-and-back day hike, or an 11.3-mile one-way trek using the free park shuttle. For a true backcountry experience, the best option is an out-and-back from the East Entrance.

From the East Entrance trailhead, the route begins on an old dirt road as it winds its way up a sandy wash. There are amazing slickrock formations that beg to be explored, so allow plenty of time for such diversions!

About 3 miles in, Jolley Gulch can be viewed from above. Spending time exploring the upper edges of the spectacular colorful walls is well worth the time spent before continuing onward.

The old, sandy road winds up, down, and around varying terrain and environments, and eventually becomes singletrack. Look for areas where the lovely manzanita grows. These sturdy bushes have beautiful waxy red bark, interspersed with gnarly gray, old branches and glossy green leaves.

As an out-and-back trail, one can turn around whenever desired, but it is highly recommended to make this a truly memorable (and long!) hike by getting to the top of Echo Canyon at 6.7 miles. The views of the canyon below are simply breathtaking and would be a shame to miss.

Another option for experiencing the East Rim Trail is to do it as a backpacking trip. That option would allow one to tack on summit hikes of Cable and Deertrap Mountains. The intersection with those summit trails is 5.5 miles from the trailhead. Of course, any backpacking trip in Zion requires some careful planning for adequate water sources.

A common belief regarding national parks is that they are nothing but masses of shoulder-to-shoulder people. The truth is, with some research and a willingness to hike further in or start at lesser-known access points, one can absolutely find solitude.