Place · 0.2 mi away
Overview
Sunset Point Overlook is the classic quick-and-easy viewpoint here: a short stroll to a rim with big, cinematic views. It shares a small circular parking area with Goosenecks Overlook, reached by a graded dirt spur off SR‑24 near Panorama Point. Expect benches on the way and plenty of room to fan out across the rim.
What You’ll See
From the overlook you’re looking across the Waterpocket Fold and down into the winding Sulphur Creek canyon. On clear days you can pick out Chimney Rock, Navajo Knobs, and even the Henry Mountains in the distance. The magic at day’s end is the red cliffs igniting as the sun drops behind you—pure glow, great for photos.
Trail & Access
It’s about 0.6 miles roundtrip with less than 50 feet of gain. The path is obvious but not perfectly smooth—expect sandstone shelves, winding sections, and a few small steps. The exact “end” can feel ambiguous; explore the broader rim for the best angles, including some flat rock outcrops people like to scramble onto.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon into sunset is the sweet spot—the light rakes across the cliffs and turns them neon. Note that this vantage faces the glowing walls, not the sun setting on the horizon. If you want to watch the disk drop, pop over to Goosenecks from the same lot. The area is open around the clock, but plan to arrive well before golden hour; the lot is small and fills fast.
Tips
- Combine it with Goosenecks Overlook—two stellar views from one parking area.
- Don’t stop at the first viewpoint; wander the rim for varied perspectives into Sulphur Creek.
- Bring water and layers—there are no services here and winds can pick up on the rim.
- Sturdy shoes help on the uneven sandstone and short step-ups.
Wildlife
This stop is all about the scenery. Wildlife isn’t commonly highlighted here, so keep expectations focused on the geology and light.
Know Before You Go
There are no restrooms, water, food, or other services at the trailhead. Pack it in, pack it out, and stick to established paths to protect the fragile rim.
Pros
- Short, easy walk with huge views of the Waterpocket Fold
- Cliffs glow brilliantly at sunset for standout photos
- Benches along the route for lingering
Cons
- Small parking lot fills quickly near sunset
- You watch the cliffs light up, not the sun drop
Tips
- Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to secure parking and a perch.
- Explore past the obvious terminus—multiple spurs offer better angles.
- Pair it with Goosenecks Overlook from the same parking circle.
- Bring water; there are no services at the trailhead.
- Use sturdy shoes for the uneven sandstone and small step-ups.
