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Bryce Rim Trail

Take a short or long walk on the edge of the plateau, gazing over the entire Bryce Amphitheater from above.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
9 km
Ascent
365 m
Descent
200 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
2.4 km
High Point
2.6 km
Gradient
Bryce Rim Trail Map

The Rim Trail is the best place in Bryce for viewing the formations with an easy hike. The park’s other trails drop steeply into the canyons, but the Rim Trail stays on top. It’s a wide path that hugs the airy edge of the plateau, granting nonstop views the entire way. From the rim, you’ll look down into the colorful labyrinth of spires and out toward distant mesas on the horizon.

Description

The full trail stretches 5.5 miles from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point, connecting all the major overlooks along the way. You could start from any of these and hike an out-and-back, or you could walk point-to-point and return with the park shuttle bus instead. Though the areas around the overlook parking lots are often crowded, a short walk along Rim Trail can quickly deliver a slice of the panorama all to yourself.

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit/rimtrail.htm https://utah.com/hiking/bryce-canyon-national-park/rim-trail

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Wild flowers
  • Family friendly

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area