Bryce Canyon Hiking Trails, Utah Hikes

Bryce Canyon (Utah) has many good hiking and backpacking trails for all skill levels. Hikers can choose between many different trails, but there are also important conditions and rules that need to be observed.

Utah's Bryce Canyon is a picturesque and great place to hike. With so many trails to choose from, hiking is a great experience for all age groups and skill levels.

Bryce's shortest and easiest trail is Bristlecone Loogp (1 mile long), which takes about an hour to complete. It is an easy hike through dense forests and has great views, a trip that is suitable for all skill levels. Other short and easy hiking trails include Mossy Cave Trail (.8 miles long), Rim Trail (0-11 miles long), and Queens Garden Trail (1.8 miles).

Moderate trails include Navajo Trail (1.3 miles), Swamp Canyon Loop Trail (4.3 miles), Tower Bridge (3 miles), and the Hat Shop Trail (4 miles).

The most difficult of day trips is the Rim with steep ascents and descents, requiring six hours and sufficient equipment for climbing and survival. Despite its difficulty, the Rim offers some of the best views of the canyon and surrounding scenery. Other longer day trips include Fairyland Loop (8 miles) and Peek-a-Boo Loop (5.5 miles).

The two most popular backcountry hiking trails are the Under the Rim trail (totalling 23 miles) and Riggs Spring Loop Trail (8.5 miles). Both have a number of campsites that need to be reserved ahead of time. Backcountry camping permits are required on these trails.

Bryce Canyon is also very strict about hiking rules. Altitudes can reach above 8 thousand feet. Cliffs and rocky areas can be treacherous and some steep slopes can have deadly consequences regarding falls. All hikers are expected to go prepared for accidents and emergencies. Most importantly, all hikers have to inform someone of their hiking details and keep away from the wildlife. Weather conditions change rapidly and hikers should go prepared for sudden summer thunderstorms.