Last updated: June 21, 2023
Place
Peekaboo Loop, Hat Shop, and Under-the-Rim Trail Trailhead
NPS Photo / Brian Roanhorse
Quick Facts
Location:
At Bryce Point parking area
Significance:
Provides access north to the Peekaboo Loop and south to the Hat Shop / Under-the-Rim Trail
Amenities
1 listed
Trailhead
Peekaboo Loop Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8 km)
Elevation change: 1,555 feet (473 m)
Average time: 3-4 hours
The Peekaboo Loop trail quickly descends over 1,000 feet (305 m) to the floor of the Bryce Amphitheater before travelling north into one of the densest areas of hoodoo formation in the park. Here shaded north-facing slopes retain precipitation and support a diverse forest among these colorful spires of rock. The trail takes its name from the surprises that await around its many turns and elevation changes. In summer, these surprises may include horse and mule riders, which is why a clockwise direction of travel is recommended. This direction also provides for the best views of the Wall of Windows, one of the most iconic features along this strenuous trail. Hikers may choose to connect to either the Queen's Garden or Navajo Loop trails at the loop's northern junction. More about the trail
Hat Shop Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Elevation Change: 1,436 feet (428 m)
Average Time: 3-4 hours
The Hat Shop Trail offers long views overlooking the colorful cliffs of the Grand Staircase to the south and a quiet solitude in which to enjoy them. Hikers descend nearly 1500 feet (457 meters) as they travel the first 2 miles (3.2 km) of the much longer 23 mile (37 km) Under-the-Rim backcountry Trail before turning around to climb 2 miles (3.2 km) back. At the turnaround point, balanced-rock hoodoos cluster along the trail's edge. These narrow, orange pinnacles wear "hats" of large grey boulders, giving them a distinct appearance compared to hoodoos seen in the Bryce Amphitheater to the north. Visitors interested in backcountry camping experiences along the Under-the-Rim Trail should first obtain a permit at the Visitor Center. More about the trail
Under-the-Rim Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 22.9 miles (37 km)
Ascent: 5,884 feet (1,793 m)
Average time: 2-3 days
This trail may be inaccessible during mid-winter due to snow depths ranging from 2-15 ft (0.7-5 m).
Experience the solitude of Bryce's forested backcountry on the Under-the-Rim Trail. Descending from the rim, this trail meanders through forests and meadows, offering stunning views of pink-hued cliffs in the distance. The Under the Rim Trail follows the base of the Paunsaugant Plateau and is largely forested. The hoodoos are part of the distant vistas to the west as you hike the valley floor. To preserve this experience, backcountry camping is permitted only in designated campsites. A backcountry permit must be obtained at the Visitor Center prior to any overnight trips. This trail is not as easily followed as developed trails within the Bryce Amphitheater.
Note: the Agua Connecting Trail is closed until further notice.
Camping (Permits Available at Visitor Center)
There are 8 campsites on the 22.9 mile (36.9 km) Under-the-Rim Trail.
Backcountry Hiking and Camping
The Under-the-Rim Trail is approximately 22.9 miles (36.9 km) from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point. Connecting trails offer access from the park's Scenic Drive and intersect the Under-the-Rim Trail at Swamp Canyon, and Whiteman Bench. Agua Canyon Connector Trail **is closed** until further notice due to storm damage.
The Riggs Spring Loop is an 8.6 mile (13.9 km) hike beginning and ending at the Rainbow and Yovimpa Point parking lot at the south end of the Scenic Drive. Either the Yovimpa or Rainbow Point trailhead may be used to access this loop.
A backcountry hiking map with mileage is available at the Visitor Center. More information
Permits Required
A Backcountry Permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be purchased at the Visitor Center from 9 am - 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 6 pm. Backcountry campsites are limited to 6 people per regular site, and 15 people per group site.
No Fires Permitted
Though gas-powered cooking stoves are allowed, no open fires are allowed anywhere in the park outside of North and Sunset Campground's established fire rings.
Bears and Other Wildlife
Bryce Canyon is home to many animals including mountain lions, coyotes and black bears. Squirrels, snakes and other small animals may also be present near your campsite.
Due to the presence of black bears within Bryce Canyon National Park, the use of bear-resistant food canisters on overnight backcountry hikes is highly recommended. Bear-resistant canisters are available for loan, free of charge, at the Visitor Center.
Transportation
April through October the free park shuttle services Bryce Point. No park-provided transportation is provided south of Bryce Point. You can arrange a private shuttle using approved providers listed on our Commercial Tours and Services page.