Last updated: June 21, 2023
Place
Swamp Canyon Loop Trailhead
NPS Photo / Peter Densmore
Quick Facts
Location:
Mile 6 of the 18 mile Scenic Southern Drive
Significance:
One of 3 connecting trails to the Under-the-Rim Trail between Rainbow and Bryce Points
Amenities
1 listed
Trailhead
Swamp Canyon Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 4.0 miles (6.4 km)
Ascent/Descent: 1,026 feet (313 m) / 1,034 feet (315 m)
Average time: 3-4 hours
The moderately strenuous 4.0 mi/6.4 km Swamp Canyon Loop begins here. The trail descends 647 ft/198 m to the canyon floor on a 3 - 4 hour hike. The loop is created by combining the Sheep Creek Connector Trail with 1.1 mi/1.8 km of the Under-the-Rim Trail and the Swamp Canyon Connector Trail. Both the Sheep Creek and Swamp Canyon connector trails provide access to the 23 mi/37 km Under-the-Rim Trail.
Under-the-Rim Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 22.9 miles (37 km) from Rainbow Point to Bryce Point
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.
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
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.