A scenic, flexible trail following the rim of Bryce Canyon’s amphitheater, offering continuous panoramic views of hoodoos and easy access to the park’s most iconic overlooks.
Typical hike time: 1–5+ hours depending on distance
How to Get There
From Bryce Canyon Visitor Center: The Rim Trail is accessible from multiple points along the main park road. Popular starting locations include Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, and Fairyland Point. Visitors can begin at any of these trailheads and hike in either direction, with the option to use the seasonal shuttle system to simplify one-way hikes.
Overview
The Rim Trail is one of the most accessible and versatile hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park, stretching along the edge of the Bryce Amphitheater from Bryce Point in the south to Fairyland Point in the north. This route connects many of the park’s most iconic viewpoints, making it an excellent way to experience a wide range of scenery without committing to a single fixed hike.
Unlike trails that descend into the canyon, the Rim Trail stays at the top, offering uninterrupted panoramic views of Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos, cliffs, and rock formations. The experience varies depending on which section you choose. The paved stretch between Sunset and Sunrise Points is flat and easy, while longer sections include gentle climbs and descents that create a more moderate hiking experience.
One of the trail’s greatest advantages is its flexibility. Short, easy walks can be combined with viewpoint stops, or the entire route can be completed as a longer half-day hike. Because the trail closely follows the park road and shuttle stops, it is easy to customize distance and logistics. It is also one of the few trails in the park with a paved section that allows pets, making it especially popular for a wide range of visitors.
With minimal elevation change compared to below-the-rim hikes and consistently dramatic scenery, the Rim Trail offers one of the best ways to experience Bryce Canyon’s landscape—whether you’re looking for a brief scenic stroll or a longer, immersive hike along the canyon’s edge.
This article uses material from the National Park Service and regional hiking resources for Bryce Canyon National Park, including official NPS trail descriptions and regional hiking guides, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
