12 Beautiful Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that are sure to please every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re into easy strolls or long hikes through the wilderness, Bryce Canyon hikes have something for everyone. Test your endurance and enjoy an amazing view from high atop one of nature’s wonders while hiking the best trails in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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How to Get to Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwest Utah. The closest major cities are Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. You can fly into either one and rent a car to visit the park.

I recommend taking Highway 12, one of the most scenic roads in Utah. For more suggestions, view my Utah national parks road trip itinerary.

When to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park

Spring: The roads to the park are usually snow-free by early May, but many trails remain closed until mid- to late June. Depending on snow levels, this could be a great time to hike in the park. Weather in the spring is some of the best all year. Call ahead or check online to see if the trails have been opened for the season.

Summer: Summers in Utah national parks are extremely hot. It’s also the most crowded time to visit. Late July through August is prime season for hiking at Bryce Canyon National Park as the weather is not as hot and there’s plenty of daylight.

Fall: Visiting in September and October gives you the advantage of lower crowds and milder temperatures as summer heat diminishes.

Winter: Many hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park are closed in the winter due to snow. However, the park is still open if you’re willing to brave cold weather. Hiking trails may be open until mid-November depending on the season. Temperatures can drop below zero at night, so remember to pack extra layers.

Bryce Canyon National Park’s visitor center is open year-round with limited hours during the off-season so check ahead for operating times before planning your trip to avoid disappointment.

Tips for Hiking in Bryce Canyon

When hiking Bryce Canyon, there are some things to keep in mind that can help ensure you have an enjoyable experience and avoid dangerous situations.

Stay on designated trails: In order to protect fragile ecosystems and for your own safety, it’s important not only to stay on trails but also to avoid taking shortcuts. Doing so can cause erosion and destroy plants that grow in the path of hikers, making it harder for others to follow trails on their own. Maintained trails are also sure to be the safest route to your destination.

Keep your group together: It’s always a good idea to hike with another person or group. If you do hike alone, be sure to tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return. When in a group, remember not to split up and keep everyone within sight at all times. Keep everyone together so you don’t reduce visibility or make it more difficult for others to know where you are. Cell reception is limited in the park and it’s best to avoid separating from other members of your party.

Be aware of your surroundings: You need to be constantly observant while hiking so that you don’t accidentally walk off the trail or get too close to animals in their natural habitats. If you’re unsure, it’s best to stay on trails and out of areas with which you aren’t familiar.

Leave No Trace: Once you’ve enjoyed your time in the park, it’s important to leave no trace. Don’t litter and be sure to pack out any garbage that you bring with you during your visit. You should also leave behind everything you encounter, including pine cones and flowers.

Weather: Bryce Canyon is a high elevation park which means that it can be cool and windy. Take into consideration the weather conditions before heading out hiking.

Start early: While it’s a great idea to get out there and enjoy nature, you’ll want to make sure that you start early in the morning. The sun can be very strong at Bryce Canyon National Park during peak hours between 12 and 2 p.m., so if possible plan your hike for an earlier time when temperatures are cooler and the sunlight is less intense.

Plan ahead: If you plan to camp at Bryce Canyon National Park, make sure that you book your campsite well in advance as many locations are already reserved months before the beginning of each season.

Be prepared: Always ensure that you bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen as well as a first-aid kit in case there’s an emergency on the trail. Hikers should be aware of how much time they’ll spend on trails so that they don’t get caught unprepared without enough food or water to get through a hike.

Shuttles: If you’re planning on heading to the park from nearby towns, it’s recommended that you take advantage of public transportation including shuttles. This is especially true if your hike takes place during peak hours when parking spaces will be limited. You can also use the shuttles to hike longer distances without retracing your steps.

Pets: Pets are only allowed on paved trails at Bryce Canyon National Park. Emotional support animals must follow all pet regulations. Service animals recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act may accompany their owner wherever they go.

Adhere to closures: Trails in and around Bryce Canyon are closed when conditions become unsafe, such as during heavy snow or rainstorms. Visitors can check with rangers to see which trails have been temporarily shut down due to the weather before heading out.

Elevation: Elevation at Bryce Canyon National Park varies depending on your location, but can be over 9,000 feet. If you’re not used to hiking in elevations like these, make sure that you take it easy and don’t push yourself too hard. Take breaks and drink plenty of water.

Bring a map: Make sure that your cell phone is fully charged before leaving on a hike if you’re relying on a digital map. Alternatively, bring along a paper map and compass to ensure that you get back safely.

Entrance fee/America the Beautiful Pass: Visitors must pay an entrance fee of $35 per vehicle or $20 for a single hiker/cyclist. If you’re visiting other national parks, consider investing in the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. It is valid for a full year from purchase, costs $80, and offers free access to federal sites nationwide.

For more tips, read my guide to visiting Bryce Canyon or check out more things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park!

What to Bring Hiking in Bryce Canyon National Park

Depending on the hike you choose and the time of year, additional items may be necessary. Check ahead of time for specific recommendations from park rangers about what gear is best.

Trip planning resources: There are a lot of books out there to help you plan your trip to Bryce Canyon National Park. I recommend the Fodor’s Guide to Utah, this Gone Beyond Guide, and the Lonely Planet Guide to Zion and Bryce Canyon. I’d also recommend purchasing this waterproof, tearproof map bundle of the Utah national parks.

Day pack: A day pack is necessary for carrying food, water, and extra clothing. My favorite backpacks are from Deuter, Osprey, and Gregory.

Water: One liter of water per person is recommended in the summer months to stay hydrated while hiking. If you plan on taking a longer hike or one that involves spending time at elevation, it’s best to bring more than this minimum amount. You’ll also want a water bottle to carry it in.

Snacks: A light snack will give you added energy and electrolytes to keep your body powered during the hike.

Protection: Staying safe outdoors includes protecting yourself against the elements. You may need sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and the length of your hike.

First aid kit: Items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a first aid kit can make the difference between an enjoyable hike and one that requires medical attention.

Rain jacket: If you’re hiking in uncertain weather, it’s important to be prepared with proper rain gear like waterproof jackets or ponchos for added protection against all types of precipitation. My favorite waterproof brand is Helly Hansen.

Layers: Staying flexible with your wardrobe helps you adjust for all types of weather. Bring layers so that if the temperature drops, you can easily add more clothing before heading out on the trail. Down jackets are a must for chilly evenings. My favorite brands are Patagonia and North Face.

Hiking tees: Good-quality hiking shirts should be moisture-wicking and quick drying. I would also bring short and long sleeve options for layering.

Hiking pants: Like your tops, I would make sure your hiking bottoms are moisture-wicking and quick-drying as well. These can be pants or shorts (I recommend packing at least two pairs of both).

Trusty footwear: For most hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park, you’ll want to bring some good hiking footwear. I love my Hoka trail runners and my Keen hiking boots. Both have great traction that’s great for climbing some of the slickrock on trails in Utah.

Crampons/grippers: For ice or snowy conditions, grippers or cramons are necessary. These provide added traction to prevent slipping.

Flashlight: A flashlight is essential if you’re planning on taking a hike during the evening hours. It’s also helpful in case of emergencies that arise while hiking. I’d also highly recommend a headlamp.

Map: Cell reception is limited in the park. It is strongly advised that you bring a paper map with you. I recommend this one because it’s waterproof and tearproof.

Overnight trips: Of course, you’ll need a tent, either for camping in campgrounds or backpacking in the wilderness. For comfort inside your tent, pack a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and camp pillow. You’ll also need a stove. I prefer the Pocket Rocket or Jet Boil. Then, naturally, you’ll also need fuel. Don’t forget some reusable cookware and dinnerware, too! I prefer collapsible bowls for my meals and all-in-one utensils.

Camera: Don’t forget your camera so you can capture every moment of your epic Bryce Canyon hikes.

Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Hikes in Bryce Canyon include some of nature’s most beautiful sights and experiences. You will see amazing things while hiking on Bryce Canyon trails. From waterfalls to rock formations to wildlife, there is something for everyone here.

The park has miles of trail options for hikers like you seeking adventure. So what are you waiting for? Get your boots on and start exploring Bryce Canyon!

Keep reading to go more in-depth on our favorite hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park. We’ll cover them in order from easiest to most strenuous.

At a Glance:

1. Sunset to Sunrise
2. Rim Trail
3. Bristlecone Loop
4. Mossy Cave
5. Queen’s Garden
6. Navajo Loop
7. Queen’s Garden/Navajo Combination Loop
8. Tower Bridge
9. Sheep Creek/Swamp Canyon
10. Hat Shop
11. Fairyland Loop
12. Peek-a-Boo Loop

Sunset to Sunrise

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1 mile (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 34 feet

Start: Sunset Point

Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Part of the Rim Trail, hiking from Sunset to Sunrise Points is the easiest hike in Bryce Canyon. It’s also one of the few paved sections of hiking trails.

This hike is great for hiking in Bryce Canyon with kids. It’s a very easy and relaxing trail that isn’t too long or strenuous but still offers incredible views of the hoodoos at sunrise and sunset. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to see some amazing sunrises or sunsets without having to wake up too early.

This is also the best hike if you have limited time in the park, but want to see some amazing views. Furthermore, it’s also best for hikers with pets or anyone who has trouble walking.

The Rim Trail from Sunset to Sunrise points is a flat, paved, easy trail that’s great for families, dogs, beginning hikers. It’s also handicapped-accessible.

Rim Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 11 miles (one way)

Elevation Change: 1,177 feet

Start: Anywhere along the rim of Bryce Amphitheater

Estimated Duration: 7.5 hours

While this trail won’t descend into the amphitheater, it will provide some of the best views from the top.

This hike is the perfect choice for those who want to see amazing views of Bryce Canyon without having to do any strenuous hiking.

It’s also a good option if you are looking for hikes in Bryce Canyon with pets or kids because it offers an easy, paved trail that doesn’t have too much elevation change along the way. Note that the paved section between Sunrise and Sunset Points is the only section of the Rim Trail where pets are allowed.

The full trail is 11 miles long, but you certainly don’t have to hike the entire way. By using the free shuttle, you can easily return to your starting point without additional walking. Don’t feel pressured to complete the full trail if you aren’t up for it.

Bristlecone Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1 mile (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 200 feet

Start: Rainbow Point or Yovimpa Point

Estimated Duration: 1 hour

While most visitors don’t come to Bryce Canyon National Park for trees, it’s one of the park’s best highlights. Bristlecone pines are some of the oldest trees on the planet. The ones in the park are estimated to be around 1,800 years old!

This short hike is right at the south end of Bryce Canyon and offers spectacular views of hoodoos in all directions. This loop wraps around Yovimpa Point so you get to see both Sunset and Sunrise Points along with some amazing scenery.

This is a good option for beginners or hikers that want to take it easy. This trail starts at either Yovimpa Point or Rainbow Point parking lots before looping back to either trailhead.

Mossy Cave

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 0.8 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 200 feet

Start: North end of the park off of Highway 12

Estimated Duration: 1 hour

This short, easy trail leads to a grotto filled with water and moss-covered rocks. The hike is very family-friendly and has some fun spots for kids to play in the creek along the way. The trail also passes a small waterfall. In the winter, the mossy rocks are replaced by dripping icicles.

This trail has become increasingly popular. Once the parking lot is full, I recommend coming back later. Visitors who have parked outside the designated spots have been ticketed and towed. During peak season, I would not hike this trail between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. due to crowds and congestion.

The trailhead is located off of Highway 12 about four miles east of the main park entrance. Follow signs to get there.

Queen’s Garden

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 1.8 miles (one way)

Elevation Change: 357 feet

Start: Sunrise Point

Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours

This hike offers an incredible variety of scenery. On this Bryce Canyon hike, you’ll find hoodoos, hanging gardens, and a natural arch. You’ll be treated to some great views along the way as well.

The trail starts at Sunrise Point and follows Queen’s Garden Wash. This is one of our favorite hikes in Bryce Canyon because it provides so much variety and offers some great views of Bryce Amphitheater. It’s also the easiest hike that descends into the amphitheater.

This is a popular hike, so be prepared to share the trail with lots of other hikers. However, it’s not too strenuous and should be manageable for most people in good shape.

It’s not a loop, so you can either return the same way or form a loop with the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Combination Loop, detailed below.

Navajo Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 1.3 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 550 feet

Start: Sunset Point

Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours

This hike starts at Sunset Point and offers stunning views of the amphitheater from all sides. The trail descends into Bryce Amphitheater, offering some great hoodoo viewing along the way.

The best times for this hike are in mid- to late fall when you can catch a beautiful sunrise or in early spring when there is still snow on the ground. You can also hike this trail in winter, but you won’t be able to complete the loop due to snow.

This popular trail leads to well-known formations like Thor’s Hammer and areas such as Two Bridges. and Wall Street. Over its short distance, prepare for a steep hike.

There are two sections of trail that form this loop: Two Bridges and Wall Street. Wall Street is the most popular, but both have incredible views. In winter, Two Bridges is the only half that remains open.

Queen’s Garden/Navajo Combination Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 2.9 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 600 feet

Start: Sunrise or Sunset Point

Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours

This is the most popular hiking trail in Bryce Canyon National Park. It’s a great trail if you’re looking for something that offers incredible views of the hoodoos without too much effort.

Experienced hikers will probably feel the hike is relatively easy. Newer or inexperienced hikers may struggle with the elevation gain, especially at Bryce Canyon National Park’s higher altitude. Either way, prepare to walk through the most stunning section of this amazing park.

This is a great option if you want to take advantage of the scenery, but don’t have time for longer hikes. The trail starts at either Sunrise or Sunset Point parking lots and passes through hoodoo-filled Queen’s Garden before looping back around. Also in Queen’s Garden is Queen Victoria, a hoodoo resembling the namesake monarch.

Park rangers recommend hiking this trail clockwise. In winter, use the Two Bridges trail to ensure a safe yet snowy hike back to your vehicle.

Tower Bridge

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 3 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 802 feet

Start: North of Sunrise Point

Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours

This hike has a moderate rating, but if you’re in good shape, I would put this one at the top of your list. It’s not too strenuous for families with older kids or young hikers who are active.

The trail starts behind Sunrise Point and leads to Tower Bridge (a natural arch) and Queen’s Garden. You’ll see some amazing hoodoos along the way. The trail offers great views of the amphitheater as it switchbacks up to Sunrise Point.

This is one of my favorite Bryce Canyon hikes because you get so much variety in scenery over its moderate distance. I would recommend hiking this trail early or late in the day to avoid crowds.

You’ll also visit this section of the park if you hike the more strenuous Fairyland Loop.

Sheep Creek/Swamp Canyon

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 647 feet

Start: Swamp Canyon

Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours

This is one of the longer hikes in Bryce Canyon, but the payoff at the end is definitely worth it. The trail starts near Swamp Canyon and leads to Sheep Creek Overlook (a great place for lunch).

It’s a great option for escaping the crowds as you venture into the backcountry of Bryce Canyon National Park. Just make sure to start this one early in the day or you could encounter some afternoon thunderstorms.

Afternoon lightning is a serious danger on hikes like these, so plan accordingly and take all necessary precautions when venturing out into Bryce Canyon National Park during monsoon season.

Hat Shop

Difficulty: Strenuous

Distance: 4 miles (one way)

Elevation Change: 1,075 feet

Start: Bryce Point

Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours

If you’re looking for a hike that’s more strenuous than the others I’ve mentioned, this one is your best bet. The trail starts at Bryce Point and leads to Hat Shop, a natural cluster of balanced rocks. From there, you can also connect to the popular Wall Street area.

The trail gets its name from the white rocks balanced on burnt orange hoodoos. This is a great option for those who are physically fit and looking for an adventure in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Fairyland Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous

Distance: 8 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 1,716 feet

Start: Fairyland Point or north of Sunrise Point

Estimated Duration: 4-5 hours

If you’re looking for a strenuous hike with the best views in Bryce Canyon National Park, I would definitely recommend this one. It’s one of my favorite Bryce Canyon hikes because it offers an incredible variety of scenery and is just long enough to feel like something big.

The trail starts at either Fairyland Point or Sunrise Point. It’s one of the less crowded hikes in Bryce Canyon due to its length and difficulty. Enjoy the quiet, beautiful vistas as you explore amazing places like Chinese Wall and Tower Bridge.

There are a few drop-offs and steep cliffs on this route, so be mindful if you have a fear of heights.

Peek-a-Boo Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous

Distance: 5.5 miles (roundtrip)

Elevation Change: 1,571 feet

Start: Bryce Point

Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours

If you’re up for a longer hike in Bryce Canyon, this one is a perfect choice. It’s more difficult and less crowded than Fairyland Loop.

This is one of the steepest hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park. Due to this, it is required that you hike the trail clockwise. If you’re up for the challenge, the hike offers some breathtaking scenery.

The main attraction on this trail is the Wall of Windows, a section of hoodoos and arches that frame the sky above you.

If 5.5 miles isn’t quite long enough, you can also combine this with the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Combination Loop to form a Figure 8. This would lead to a 6.4-mile hike for a nearly complete tour of the Bryce Amphitheater.

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon

Hotels: Hotels will offer the most comfort and amenities. This is also the most expensive option. I book all my stays with Booking.com.

Camping: To save money, I’d recommend camping. This will also bring you closer to nature. I like using Campspot to find nearby campgrounds.

Some of my favorite places to stay nearby: Bryce Pioneer Village, Bryce Country Cabins, Ruby’s Inn, Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, Bryce View Lodge, Bryce Canyon Pines

Pin Bryce Canyon Hikes

Bryce Canyon hikes offer a variety of scenery and difficulty levels for all different types of hikers. There are many wonderful hiking trails in Bryce Canyon National Park. These 12 epic hikes cover some of the best views and attractions, but there are still countless options for those looking to explore this beautiful park.

What are your favorite hikes in Bryce Canyon?