Hike the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon National Park! This hike is a three trail combination loop. Make your way to Sunrise Point on the Rim Trail. From there, it’s on to Queens Garden Trail (the main attraction) and then complete the loop on Navajo Trail which takes you back to Sunset Point.
Where to Start?
You have two starting point options for this trail. You can either start at Sunrise Point or Sunset Point. We chose Sunset Point because it has a much larger parking area, a bathroom, and it’s where the Bryce Canyon Ranger recommended we start. They usually know what they’re talking about.
Parking at Sunset Point
The parking area at Sunset Point can hold approximately 50 cars. Maybe more. It was a very large lot and we didn’t have any trouble finding a parking spot. There is a bathroom conveniently located in the center of the lot. The parking area is in a loop shape so it is an easy in and out.
From the parking lot, make your way out to Sunset Point and take in the view. Even though you’ll end up right back here, I would recommend looking around now because at the end of the hike, you will be tired. Trust me.
Rim Trail
Take a left and head down the Rim Trail. This is an easy, paved, 1/2 mile trail to Sunrise Point and the start of Queens Garden Trail.
Sunrise Point
Another great view at Sunrise Point. Don’t forget to look for Boat Mesa and the Sinking Ship before you get on Queens Garden Trail.
Queen's Garden Trail
You’ve completed your first 1/2 mile of this loop trail and now it’s time to get on the Queens Garden Trail and hike another 1.8 miles. The is one of the most beautiful trails we have ever been on. You’ll descend down among the hoodoos and see incredible views from the bottom up. MORE INFO
Let’s not forget about this trails namesake. While you’re hiking, you’ll come to a tunnel and then the trail immediately splits where you can go left or right. To the right is the Queens Garden. It’s just a short walk up to see a hoodoo that looks very similar to Queen Victoria. Return the way you came and then take the path that went to the left and continue on the trail.
After you see the Queen, this part of the trail makes you feel really small. You’re about 300ft down into the canyon and the views above are spectacular so don’t forget to look up.
Decisions, Decisions
You’ve come to the end of the Queens Garden Trail, but you’re still not back at Sunset Point. This time, you’ll have two options for how you want to end this trail.
Option #1: Navajo Loop Trail
This is the option we took because it is the more scenic of the two. The trails are quite similar, but Navajo offers a view of Two Bridges and Thor’s hammer.
You’ll come to Two Bridges first. It’s just off the trail. Then make your way up, up, up.
Be advised that this is the most difficult part of the trail. You are making your way back up AND I EMPHASIZE BACK UP to Sunset Point and it is a steep hike with several switchbacks. Take your time and drink plenty of water.
The pay off after the switchbacks is an eye level view of Thor’s Hammer. You probably saw it from above at Sunset Point, but this view puts you much closer. MORE INFO
Option #2: Wall Street
This trail is similar to Navajo Loop, but you will miss out on Two Bridges and Thor’s Hammer. Also, be aware that this trail is closed in the winter due to icy conditions making it dangerous. It is the more challenging of the two so make the choice that is best for you.
Back at Sunset Point
You’ve done it! 2.9 miles of beautiful hiking complete. Head back to your car or to the bathroom and enjoy the rest of your time at Bryce Canyon National Park. Maybe take the SCENIC DRIVE
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonder is not affiliated with Bryce Canyon National Park or the National Park Service.
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