11 Best Bryce Canyon Hikes for Your Bucket List

Bryce Canyon is just a small National Park in the American Southwest but has an amazingly unique landscape. It is home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world. The best way to experience these thin, spiral rock formations is on the various and easily accessible Bryce Canyon hikes.

What we love most about Bryce Canyon is how easily the hoodoos can be explored. No matter if you are looking to take a short, easy stroll or for a more in-depth experience, you will be able to enjoy unforgettable views of the hoodoos all over the park.

Let us help you find the best trails in Bryce Canyon National Park that you don’t want to miss out on.

Other Bryce Canyon Resources:

• Bryce Canyon in One Day: What Not to Miss!
• Plan a trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon: 4 Day Utah National Park Itinerary
• How to Save Money with the America the Beautiful Pass

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Getting to Bryce Canyon National Park

To visit Bryce Canyon National Park you can technically start from either Las Vegas, Nevada, or Salt Lake City, Utah. Deciding where to start your trip will determine where you are coming from and the flight prices. 

Bryce Canyon National Park is about 4 hours from Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.  

You will need to rent a car at the airport to make the journey to Bryce Canyon National Park.

How to Get Around in Bryce Canyon

There are a few different options on how you can see Bryce Canyon. You can opt to drive your own vehicle, utilize the free shuttle service, or take the free Rainbow Point Shuttle Tour.

We always try to protect the environment as much as possible, that is why we would recommend using the free Bryce Canyon Shuttle Service, but for certain times of the day, driving your own car is more convenient. Check the Shuttle Services hours of operation to see what’s best for you.

Bryce Canyon Shuttle Service

Bryce Canyon has a free shuttle service within the park, which is included in your entrance fee. It will bring you to the must-see sights in Bryce Canyon National Park without the hassle of finding parking.

The use of this shuttle service is NOT mandatory by the park, but utilizing it helps lessen the vehicle traffic throughout the park.

The shuttle service is extremely easy to use and convenient. The buses come every 15 minutes, but if you want to get the exact time, you can use the Bryce Canyon Shuttle Tracker to follow the shuttle bus. The entire shuttle run is around 50 minutes in length and you are welcome to get on and off the bus at any of the stops.

Rainbow Point Shuttle Tour

The FREE Rainbow Point Shuttle Tour is a 3.5-hour guided round trip. It covers 40 miles with stops at many of the park’s popular viewpoints. The tour starts to run around mid-April and is offered twice throughout the day, at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM.

If you are interested in the tour, it is required to have a reservation. A reservation can be made 7 days in advance. Each tour accommodates 40 people. If there are unfilled seats, they will be filled on a first come first, serve basis

The Ultimate List of the Best Bryce Canyon Hikes

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for a wide range of visitors. We have listed the Bryce Canyon best hikes from easy to strenuous:

1. Mossy Cave Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.8 mile
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Change: 200 ft
Trailhead: North end of the park, 4 miles east of Highway 12
Time: 30 minutes

The Mossy Cave trail is the northernmost Bryce Canyon hike and has one of the lowest elevation gains in the park. The hike leads you along a stream to a mossy grotto. On your way, you will also spot a small waterfall in front of the picturesque hoodoo landscape.

In the summertime, you will see water dripping from the moss in the grotto, whereas in the wintertime, the grotto is filled with beautiful icicles. If you are looking for an easy and short Bryce Canyon hiking trail, which lets you explore another section of Bryce Canyon National Park, this is the one for you!

2. Sunset to Sunrise Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 mile
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Change: 34 ft
Trailhead: Sunset Point
Time: 20 – 30 minutes

If you are looking for easy Bryce Canyon trails with some of the most scenic views, then this is one of the best Bryce Canyon hikes for you. It will showcase the most popular part of the park with the highest concentration of hoodoos, Bryce Amphitheater.

This short Bryce Canyon hike from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point runs 1 mile along a paved path section of the Rim Trail. The best thing about this Bryce Canyon hiking trail is that it is easily accessible for all visitors.

3. Rim Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 to 11.0 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Change: 1177 ft
Trailhead: Fairyland Point or Bryce Point
Time: Varies depending on how long you hike one of the best trails in Bryce Canyon.

Take in the views of Bryce Amphitheater from above on the Rim Trail. The entire trail runs from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point with multiple steep elevation changes.

One of the nice things about hiking the Rim Trail is that you can make it as long as you want. Since it is an out and back hike you can choose to turn around at any point.

When your feet are too tired to hike back to your starting point, you can also take advantage of the FREE Bryce Canyon Shuttle Service.

4. Bristlecone Loop 

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 mile
Type of Hike: Loop 
Elevation Change: about 90 feet 
Trailhead: Rainbow Point
Time: 30 minutes

The Bristlecone Loop Trail starts at Rainbow Point along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive and is the highest point in the park. 

This trail is a little different than the others found in Bryce Canyon since it brings you through the forest at about 9,100 feet above sea level. Along the trail, you will pass Bristlecone Trees which are the oldest living species in the world. 

Since the forested area is dominated by a variety of trees, it is a great place to spot different wildlife which inhabits the park. 

5. Navajo Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.5 miles
Type of Hike: Out & Back 
Elevation Change: 515 feet
Trailhead: Sunset Point
Time: 1 – 2 hours

If you are looking for a slightly more challenging descent into the canyon, take the Navajo Trail. But in our opinion it is the more scenic way to enter Bryce Canyon, therefore, it is our preferred of the 2 best trails in Bryce Canyon. 

From Sunset Point along the Rim Trail you will snake your way down switchbacks and meandering your way through the towering walls. 

This is a very popular Bryce Canyon hiking trail and is best completed right after watching a sunrise.

Completing this trail is an out and back which means a challenging climb back to the rim. This is why many hikers choose to combine the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Trail as a loop trail. 

6. Queens Garden Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.8 miles
Type of Hike: Out & Back
Elevation Change: 320 feet
Trailhead: Sunrise Point
Time: 1 – 2 hours

The best way to see and experience the famous hoodoos of Bryce Canyon is to hike under the rim. These Bryce Canyon trails lead you down into the canyon allowing you to walk among these incredible structures. 

The easiest way to experience this is to hike the Queens Garden Trail since it has the lowest elevation change. It starts at Sunrise Point along the Rim Trail and slowly leads you down into the canyon. Since this is an out and back hike you will just return the way you came. 

The trail gets its name from the hoodoo formation, Queen Victoria as it resembles Queen Victoria and her throne. 

7. Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.9 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Change: 600 ft
Trailhead: Sunset Point
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours

The most popular trail and best hike in Bryce Canyon is the combination of the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop Trail.

Our preferred route is to start at Sunset Point, where you will descend Wall Street, a switchback section leading you through towering sandstone formations. You will continue your way through the Amphitheater getting up close to the famous Bryce Canyon hoodoos until you reach the rim at Sunrise Point.

From there, you can walk back to Sunset Point on the flat and scenic Rim Trail.

Note: The Wall Street section of Bryce Canyon is closed during the winter months, but you can still take the Queens Garden Navajo Loop trail via Two Bridges.

On this trail, you will walk through natural sandstone arches, and lush pine forests and pass popular hoodoos like Queen Victoria and Thor’s Hammer.

8. Tower Bridge

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Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.4 miles
Type of Hike: Out & Back
Elevation Change: roughly 800 feet
Trailhead: Sunrise Point
Time: 2 – 3 hours

The Tower Bridge Trail leads you to the delicate Tower Bridge site located in the canyon. 

This trail is actually a part of the longer Fairyland Loop Trail. Opting to take the shorter Tower Bridge Trail is perfect for a mid-range distance hiking in Bryce Canyon. Along the trail, you will see hoodoo formations such as the Chinese Wall and Crescent Castles. 

9. Hat Shop Trail

Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 4.0
Type of Hike: Out & Back
Elevation Change: about 1,000 feet
Trailhead: Bryce Point
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours

This difficult trail is part of the much longer, 23-mile, Under the Rim Trail. This Bryce Canyon hiking trail offers grand views overlooking the Grand Staircase. It is much quieter and less crowded than other best trails in Bryce Canyon.

Hat Shop Trail got its name from the hoodoo formations located at the turnaround point for the trail. Here you will see large orange hoodoo spires with large grey boulders on top of them which appears as if they are wearing hats. 

Out of all the trails in Bryce Canyon, this is definitely one of the more difficult ones to take on because it is a steep climb. So you may want to consider leaving this one for a different visit, especially if this is your first time visiting Bryce Canyon.

10. Peekaboo Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 5.5 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Change: 1571 ft
Trailhead: Bryce Point
Time: 3 – 4 hours

Peekaboo Loop is another strenuous best hikes at Bryce Canyon that will have you meandering through the heart of Bryce Canyon. If you plan on completing the whole loop, it is required to hike in a clockwise direction.

The many short steep climbs and descents make parts of the trail very challenging, but your effort will get rewarded with fantastic views of secluded hoodoos, including the Wall of Windows.

Watch out for the horseback riders you will share this trail with.

11. Fairyland Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 8.0 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Change: 1716 ft
Trailhead: Fairyland Point
Time: 4 – 5 hours

Head into Fairyland Canyon on the Fairyland Loop trail where you will walk through dramatic hoodoo formations. Expect the best hikes at Bryce Canyon to be strenuous because of the length and the elevation changes that occur.

But don’t let that stop you from seeing the northern, more secluded portion of the park. On top of that, it will give you access to the Tower Bridge and Chinese Wall, two spectacular hoodoo formations you are just able to see on this trail.

Bryce Canyon Trail Map

More Things to do in Bryce Canyon other than Hiking

• Explore the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive
• Stargazing
• Catching a sunrise or sunset
• Go horseback riding

What to Pack for Hiking

Packing for your trip to Bryce Canyon National Park will require some specific hiking gear for a more enjoyable experience. Here is a quick list of the hiking essentials for the Bryce Canyon best hikes. 

Daypack – A daypack is essential for your hikes. Try out the comfortable lightweight Deuter Speed Lite daypack. It is our choice when hitting the trails in Bryce Canyon.

Water Bottle – Keep your water cool by bringing an insulated water bottle. We always carry our Hydro Flask water bottles with us.

Comfortable Hiking Boots – One of the worst things when heading out for a hike is not having comfortable footwear. For hiking in Bryce Canyon, it is best to use over-the-ankle hiking boots because they provide you with good support on the more rocky and difficult terrain.

Sun Protection – Most of the trails in Bryce Canyon are in the direct sun. Don’t forget to use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the grueling sun beating down on you.

Camera & Accessories – Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture all the memories you are about to make during your trip to Bryce Canyon National Park. Our essential camera gear is our Olympus OMD Em Mark ii, the Rollei travel tripod, a camera remote, and our Peak Design capture clip.

How Long Should You Spend in Bryce Canyon?

Compared to many other U.S. National Parks, Bryce Canyon is more compact. That makes it easier to see the park when you don’t have a lot of time. You could definitely see the park’s major highlights in just 1 day.

If you plan on exploring some of the longer hikes in Bryce Canyon, which bring you to the more secluded parts of Bryce Canyon, you should stay at least 2 days.

What is the Best Month to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park?

Spring and Fall – Visiting Bryce Canyon is great all year long. To make the most out of your visit, we would recommend planning a trip in the spring or fall months.

The months of April – May, and September – October bring ideal temperatures ranging from 60 degrees Fahrenheit to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Just be aware that depending on the winter, some sections of the park could still be closed in early spring.

Summer – We visited Bryce Canyon in the summer (August) and it was hot, but not unbearable. The hottest month is July with an average daytime temperature of 83 degrees. If you plan to go in the summer months, start the day early to avoid the afternoon sun while on the trails Bryce Canyon.

Winter – The winter months bring a special experience. Since the temperatures are usually around freezing, snow is not unusual. Seeing the hoodoos covered in a dusting of snow is truly magical. Expect some sections of the park to be not passable, and fewer activities to be offered.

Best Tips for Experiencing Bryce Canyon National Park

Be aware of the altitude – Bryce Canyon National Park sits at a higher elevation, with more than 8,000 feet at its highest point. Especially when hiking in Bryce Canyon Amphitheater, you could experience shortness of breath. Take it slow and remember that a break is always a good opportunity for admiring the awesome landscape.

Hoodoo photography – Bryce Canyon has several prime photo spots to capture the remarkable crimson orange-colored hoodoos. Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Bryce Point, and Inspiration Point should definitely be on your list.

If you want to snag eye-catching photos in a different light, you should visit those places during the sunrise or the golden hour. The golden hour is the time shortly after sunrise and right before sunset.

Keep an eye out for wildlife – As we were driving along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive we spotted Prairie Dogs popping in and out of their holes and deer relaxing in the pine forests along the road. If you are very lucky, you could also encounter mountain lions, pronghorn deer, and rattlesnakes.

Start your day early – Any time we visit a National Park, we like to start our day early. That helps to maximize our time and escape the crowds on the Bryce Canyon trails or the Scenic Drive. When you visit Bryce Canyon National Park during the summer, you also want to be on the best hikes Bryce Canyon early to avoid the midday heat.

Dress in layers – The temperature difference between the morning hours and the evening hours can vary. Make sure to dress in layers to accommodate the temperature changes.

Leave No Trace – Anytime you visit a United States National Park or just enjoy the outdoors, it is important to remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Respect and appreciate nature, so that future generations can enjoy the same beauty.

Where to Stay in Bryce Canyon National Park

Staying inside the park’s boundaries is a difficult task and requires some advanced planning. Book accommodations at least a minimum of 3 to 6 months in advance. 

To stay at the popular Lodge at Bryce Canyon, you will need to book at least a year prior to your trip.

Inside Bryce Canyon National Park

Camping – Bryce Canyon has 2 campgrounds within the park. Both campgrounds are a great choice for camping since they are relatively close to the main highlights of the park. Learn more about each campground and how reservations work by visiting the National Park Service website. 

• North Campground (first-come, first-served campground, open all year)
• Sunset Campground (reservable 6 months in advance)

Lodging – The Lodge at Bryce Canyon (the only hotel in the park)

Outside Bryce Canyon National Park

Although the towns outside of Bryce Canyon are not as big as Springdale next to Zion National Park, they do provide options for accommodations outside of the park.

Dispersed Camping – Forest Road 1173 (BLM lands) for free just outside the park.

Camping – Ruby’s Inn RV Park and Camping

Hotels – There are some beautiful hotels in close proximity to Bryce Canyon National Park you could stay the nights in:

• Bryce UpTop Lodge
• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn

FAQs: Bryce Canyon

What should I not miss in Bryce Canyon?

Things you will not want to miss in Bryce Canyon National Park is catching a sunrise and sunset from a viewpoint along the rim of the amphitheater, driving the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive, and hiking the Queens Navajo Loop Trail. 

What is the best hike in Bryce Canyon?

In our opinion, there is no one best hike in Bryce Canyon National Park, but some of the best hiking in Bryce Canyon is when you are down into the canyon. Hikes in Bryce Canyon like the Queens Garden Trail, Navajo Trail, and Fairyland Loop Trail will get you into the canyon.

Is hiking in Bryce Canyon difficult?

Hiking at Bryce Canyon can be as difficult or as easy as you make it. Bryce has a wide range of hikes with different terrains and difficulties which make it easy to fit your hiking needs. 

What can you do in Bryce Canyon in one day?

Yes, you can do Bryce Canyon in one day. Here is a quick itinerary for seeing Bryce in one day. 

How much time should you spend at Bryce Canyon?

Bryce Canyon National Park is best explored between 1 to 3 days. With 1 day in Bryce Canyon, you will be able to explore the main park highlights. More than 1 day will allow you to explore the backcountry of Bryce Canyon.

How long is the scenic drive in Bryce Canyon?

The drive is a 38 miles round trip with 13 viewpoints showcasing various sections of the park. You can easily rush through the scenic drive, but we would really suggest taking your time to appreciate the landscape in front of you. We spent approximately 3 hours taking in the views.

Can you do Bryce Canyon and Zion in one day?

Technically you could “see” Bryce and Zion National Parks in 1 day, but we would not recommend doing that. At best, you may be able to squeeze in the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive. 

If you are able to do that, it would be a very long day driving and you would miss out on really enjoying the parks and exploring the stunning hiking trails.

List of Best Bryce Canyon Hikes

1. Sunset to Sunrise Trail
2. Rim Trail
3. Mossy Cave Trail
4. Queens Garden Trail
5. Navajo Trail
6. Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail
7. Fairyland Loop
8. Peekaboo Loop
9. Bristlecone Loop 
10.  Tower Bridge
11.  Hat Shop Trail

Which of the Bryce Canyon hikes did you pick? What makes this national park so fascinating to you?

Share your experiences with us or drop a question in the comments below!

Our Other Resources for Bryce Canyon National Park:

• Plan a Trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon: 2 Utah National Parks
• Bryce Canyon in One Day: What Not to Miss!
• How to Save Money with the American the Beautiful Pass

Other Resources for Utah’s National Parks

• ARCHES: 8 Incredible Trails to Hike Arches National Park
• CANYONLANDS: The Best of Island in the Sky Canyonlands National Park
• CAPITOL REEF: Explore 10 Striking Capitol Reef Hikes in the Fruita District
• ZION: 11 Best Hikes in Zion National Park
• ROAD TRIP: Explore Utahs National Parks in One Unforgettable Road Trip
• ROAD TRIP: Plan a Trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon: 2 Utah National Parks
• HIKING: 15 Most Helpful Hiking Apps to Download
• HIKING: What You Should be Packing for a Hike: The Essentials + Extras
• HIKING: 100+ Best Gifts for Hikers to Buy
• NATIONAL PARK: 16 Best East Coast National Parks You Need to Visit
• NATIONAL PARK: 34 Best West Coast National Park + Western U.S. Parks that Will Blow Your Mind
• NATIONAL PARK: A Complete National Park List by State + Downloadable Checklist and Map
• NATIONAL PARK: First Hand Ranking of National Parks in USA from Best to Worst

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