Bryce Canyon is like nowhere else on Earth. With its vast amphitheaters of red hoodoos, towering spires, and winding trails through ancient rock formations, it’s a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging adventure, Bryce Canyon has views at every turn.
Despite the name, Bryce Canyon isn’t a canyon. It’s a series of massive natural amphitheaters carved by erosion along the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah. Its most famous feature? Hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that look like nature’s sculpture art.
The park’s otherworldly landscapes, vibrant colors, and high-elevation viewpoints attract hikers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.
Plan Your Visit
Bryce Canyon is open year-round, but your experience will depend on the season. Summer brings warm temps and crowds, winter has solitude and snow-dusted hoodoos. Spring and fall are best for mild weather and fewer visitors.
The standard park entrance fee is $20-35 per vehicle, or you can use an America the Beautiful pass if you’re visiting multiple national parks.
Start at the Visitor Center
Before you hit the trails, stop by the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. Here you’ll find current trail conditions, ranger-led programs, maps, restrooms, and educational exhibits. It’s also a great place to learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history—plus get tips on how to make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring: Wildflowers bloom, temperatures are warm, and crowds are smaller.
- Summer: Warm temperatures and crowds are smaller.
- Fall: Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Winter: Solitude and snow-dusted hoodoos.
Top 7 Bryce Canyon Hikes
1. Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden Trail (Moderate)
Distance: 3-mile loop
This is the park’s most popular hike. Start at Sunrise Point and descend into the heart of the canyon, through narrow rock corridors, the famous “Wall Street” switchbacks, and past Queen Victoria-shaped hoodoos.
2. Peekaboo Loop Trail (Challenging)
Distance: 5.2-mile loop
For experienced hikers, this trail offers up-close views of hoodoos, arches, and narrow slots. More strenuous with steep climbs, but solitude and scenery are worth the effort.
3. Rim Trail (Easy to Moderate)
Distance: Up to 11 miles (choose your section)
Along the canyon edge from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point, this trail gives you some of the park’s best views. Do it in sections if you’re short on time.
4. Fairyland Loop (Challenging)
Distance: 7.9-mile loop
Less crowded than other trails, Fairyland Loop is a long, rewarding journey through pastel-hued hoodoos and towering spires. A true escape into Bryce’s wild heart.
5. Mossy Cave Trail (Easy)
Distance: 0.9 miles round trip
This short hike outside the main amphitheater leads to a small waterfall and a mossy overhang. Perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick scenic walk.
6. Tower Bridge Trail (Moderate)
Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
A quieter hike off the Fairyland Loop, Tower Bridge offers great views of a natural rock arch and fewer crowds.
7. Bristlecone Loop Trail (Easy)
Distance: 1.1-mile loop
At 9,100 feet, this high-elevation trail near Rainbow Point features ancient bristlecone pines and views into the Grand Staircase-Escalante region.
Scenic Views and Landmarks
Don’t miss the main viewpoints:
- Bryce Point – For sunrise and the amphitheater views.
- Sunset Point – For, well, sunset. Also, the starting point for the Navajo Loop.
- Inspiration Point – A view that lives up to its name.
Unique Rock Formations
Bryce is a gallery of geological art. From Thor’s Hammer to the Silent City, these natural sculptures have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. Keep your camera handy—the light changes by the minute, and the colors of the rocks change dramatically throughout the day.
More to Do
Besides hiking, try:
- Stargazing: Bryce is an International Dark Sky Park.
- Horseback riding: Trail rides through Bryce Canyon are amazing.
- Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing (in winter).
The Final Summit
Whether you’re walking among hoodoos or gazing out from a high plateau, Bryce Canyon is a hiking experience that’s both bizarre and beautiful. Get your boots on, bring your sense of wonder, and hit the trails—this red rock wonderland is waiting for you.
