Backcountry Hiking and Camping

Hikers along the Under-the-Rim Trail near Rainbow Point.

NPS Photo/Peter Densmore

Experience the solitude of Bryce's forested backcountry! 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.

• There are 7 campsites on the 22.9 mile (36.9 km) Under-the-Rim Trail (Sheep Creek is closed)
• There are 3 campsites on the 8.8 mile (14.2 km) Riggs Spring Loop Trail
• The trails are strenuous, with multiple changes in elevation ranging from 6,800 feet (2,073 m) to 9,115 feet (2778 m)

Backcountry Trails

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). 
Note: the Agua Connecting Trail is closed until further notice.
Southern end at Rainbow Point, northern end at Bryce Point. Connecting trails at Ponderosa Canyon (Agua Canyon Connecting Trail), Whiteman Bench, and Swamp Canyon.

Riggs Spring Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
Ascent:  2,503 feet (763 m)
Average time: 4-6 Hours

This trail may be inaccessible during mid-winter due to snow depths ranging from 2-15 ft (0.7-5 m).
Trailheads located near Rainbow and Yovimpa Points.

Maps

A backcountry hiking map with mileage is available at the Visitor Center. View the map and more information online.

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

When available, hikers may reserve seats on the Rainbow Point Tour bus for transportation to Rainbow and Yovimpa Point. However, this service is seasonal in nature. Reservations and detailed information may be obtained by calling [phone].

Details

Activity

Backcountry Camping

Experience the solitude of Bryce's forested backcountry on the Under the Rim Trail. Descending from the rim, this 22.9 mile trail meanders through forests & meadows, offering stunning views of rainbow-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.

• There are 7 campsites on the 22.9 mile (36.9 km) Under-the-Rim Trail (Sheep Creek is closed)
• There are 3 campsites on the 8.8 mile (14.2 km) Riggs Spring Loop Trail
• The trails are strenuous, with multiple changes in elevation ranging from 6,800 feet (2,073 m) to 9,115 feet (2778 m)

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

$10/permit + $5/person, ages 16+ to obtain a permit. Cash and card accepted.

Reservations

Yes

Permits are required for backcountry camping and can be reserved in person up to 48 hours in advance.

Season

Year Round

While permitted year-round, these trails may be difficult to access during mid-winter due to snow depths ranging from 2-15 ft (0.7-5 m). 

Accessibility Information

Park backcountry trails are very rugged and not considered accessible.