Zion for walkers not hikers
 

We will be in Zion in late June. We are not hikers and can not do the canyon walls. Is there a walking trail before you get to the tunnel coming from the east that will give a view of the valley from a high elevation. We will do a two or three hour trip up the narrows. We did a short version some years ago with just old tennis shoes. Are the rental boots and poles worth the money for the less adventuresome?

Yes, most definitely for the boots and poles.

There are overlooks that you can stop at but don't recall that those were "little" hikes. However, there are a lot of doable hikes from what it sounds like that you'll want. For example one we missed and wish we had time to do was the weeping rock where you reach a spring or "hanging garden". For an overlook, I recall there a canyon overlook but can't remember where it was in the park. I'd like to say it is near the Mt Carmel tunnel (perhaps east of it?). The lower emerald pools was also one we wish we had time for. it goes to a waterfall. visit nps.gov to get more details.

i meant the hikes by the road near the overlooks were not little. sorry, it's late and i'm gargling my words, apparently. hope you have a great time in Zion. It's a beautiful park!

There is a great overlook near the entrance(east) of the tunnel. It's not difficult and very rewarding.PAul

Weeping Rock is in the Park between the Lodge and the Temple of Sinawava on the right-hand side.

It's .25 mi one-way and is rated as "easy" with a time of .5 hour. The elevation gain is 100 feet.

Riverside Walk is at the end of the scenic road and starts at the Temple of Sinawava. 1 Mile one-way. 1-2 hours and also rated as "easy". This is the trail that leads to The Narrows.

Canyon Overlook is located outside the Park on the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway just East of the tunnel.

It's .5 mile one-way and rated as "easy" and 1 hour with an elevation gain of 163 feet.