Walk the Rim Trail

The Rim Trail provides views all along the edge of the Bryce Amphitheater and connects viewpoints

NPS Photo / Peter Densmore

The Rim Trail stretches from its beginning in the south at Bryce Point 5.5 miles (8.9 km) north to Fairyland Point. As it follows the edge of the Bryce Amphitheater area of the park, it connects to Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point providing a relatively easy hike (depending on how much of it you do) that offers spectacular views of the park's most popular area.

Recommended: Sunset to Sunrise

The easiest hike in the park is the section of the Rim Trail that connects Sunset and Sunrise Points. It is 0.5 miles (0.8 km) long and walkers can begin from either Sunrise or Sunset Point. Elevation gain is 34 feet (10 meters). We recommend hiking from one point and back for a very easy 1 mile (1.6 km) walk. 

Winter Closures

In winter the 1.5 mile (2.4 km) section of the Rim Trail from Bryce Point to Inspiration Point is regularly closed.

Section Lengths

Difficulty: Varies (Easy to Moderate)
Total Distance: 5.5 miles (8.9 km)
Ascent/Descent (South to North): 1,330 feet (405 m) / 1,825 feet (556 m)
Average time: 3-4 hours

• Bryce to Inspiration: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
• Inspiration to Sunset: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
• Sunset to Sunrise: 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
• Sunrise to Fairyland 2.8 miles (4.5 km)

Riding the Shuttle

During shuttle season, hikers may use stops at Bryce, Inspiration, Sunset, and Sunrise Points to complete one-way hikes. Fairyland Point has no shuttle service.

Details

Duration

1-6 Hours

Most visitors will enjoy about an hour walk by travelling the flat surface from Sunrise to Sunset Point (or vice versa) and back.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

• Pets are permitted on all paved surfaces in the park: campgrounds, parking lots, paved roads, paved viewpoint areas, on the paved trail between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point, and on the paved Shared Use Path between the park entrance and Inspiration Point.
• Pets are not permitted on unpaved trails or viewpoints, in public buildings or on public transportation vehicles. These regulations also apply to pets that are carried.
• Pets must be on a leash at all times; the leash must be no longer than 6 feet.
• Pet owners may not leave pet(s) unattended or tied to an object. Pets may not be left in vehicles while their owners hike. Be aware that idling and generator use is not permitted in park parking lots.
• Pets may not make unreasonable noise.
• Pet owners are required to pick-up after their pets (excrement and other solid waste).

Activity Fee

Yes

Park admission provides access to this activity.

Location

Sunset Point

Access to the Rim Trail is found at Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, and Fairyland Point.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Those visiting in winter may find icy or snowy conditions and should dress accordingly. Footwear traction devices are highly recommended for all areas of the park in winter.

Accessibility Information

Because of the park's natural terrain, only the 0.5 mile (0.8 km) section of the Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Points is wheelchair accessible.

Map of the Rim Trail Area