Navajo Loop Trail: A Classic Hike in Bryce Canyon
The Navajo Loop Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Beginning at Sunset Point, the trail descends from the canyon rim into a maze of towering hoodoos—tall, irregular rock formations shaped by erosion. Along the way, hikers pass striking landmarks, including Thor’s Hammer and the narrow walls of Wall Street.
Trail at a Glance
- Distance: About 1.3 miles for the loop
- Elevation change: Approximately 550 feet
- Starting point: Sunset Point
- Difficulty: Strenuous, especially on the climb back to the rim
- Typical time: Around 1 to 2 hours, depending on pace and trail conditions
Trail conditions, route access, and travel times can vary. Check current park information before setting out.
What to Expect on the Trail
The hike starts with a steep descent from Sunset Point, winding down through the amphitheater on a series of switchbacks. Below the rim, the trail brings you close to Bryce Canyon’s colorful rock formations and offers changing views as you move through the landscape.
Two well-known features are Thor’s Hammer, a distinctive hoodoo visible near the trail, and Wall Street, a narrow passage framed by tall rock walls and bristlecone pines. Wall Street is not always open. When it is closed, hikers may use the Two Bridges section if that route is available. Park signs and staff can help you choose an open route.
Connecting to Other Hikes
The Navajo Loop can be combined with the Queen’s Garden Trail for a longer hike often called the Queen’s Garden–Navajo combination. This route offers a broader tour of the Bryce Amphitheater, but it also adds distance and climbing. Check the trail map and assess your energy before continuing.
When to Go
Spring, summer, and fall can all be rewarding times to hike, though weather and trail conditions change with the seasons. In winter, snow and ice may make the steep sections slippery, and some routes may close temporarily. Summer afternoons can be hot, while storms may bring sudden changes in conditions.
Hiking Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; the trail is steep and can be uneven or slippery.
- Bring water and take breaks, especially on the climb back to Sunset Point.
- Start early during busy seasons to avoid crowds and midday heat.
- Stay on the marked trail and give other hikers room on narrow switchbacks.
- Check weather forecasts, park alerts, and trail closures before your visit.
- Remember that Bryce Canyon sits at high elevation, which can make exertion feel more difficult.
A Memorable Bryce Canyon Hike
With its close-up views of hoodoos, dramatic switchbacks, and iconic rock formations, the Navajo Loop Trail offers a memorable introduction to Bryce Canyon’s distinctive scenery. The hike is short, but the steep climb and changing conditions make good preparation important. Take your time, follow park guidance, and enjoy the view from the canyon floor.
6 Essential Tips for Hiking the Navajo Loop Trail
- Check current trail conditions before you go.
- Bring water; the trail is steep and strenuous.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
- Take your time on the switchbacks and stairs.
- Start early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
- Stay on marked paths and keep away from cliff edges.
Check current trail conditions before you go.
Before heading out on the Navajo Loop Trail, check the latest trail conditions and park alerts. Snow, ice, storms, maintenance, or closures can affect access and make steep sections hazardous. Confirm which route is open, including Wall Street or Two Bridges, and adjust your plans based on the weather and your hiking experience.
Bring water; the trail is steep and strenuous.
Bring plenty of water when hiking the Navajo Loop Trail. Its steep switchbacks and strenuous climb back to the rim can be demanding, especially in warm weather or at Bryce Canyon’s high elevation. Sip regularly, take breaks as needed, and don’t rely on finding water along the trail.
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction on the Navajo Loop Trail. The route includes steep switchbacks and uneven, sometimes loose or slippery surfaces, so supportive footwear can help you stay comfortable and steady on both the descent and the climb back to the rim.
Take your time on the switchbacks and stairs.
Take your time on the Navajo Loop Trail’s switchbacks and stairs, especially on the steep descent and climb back to the rim. Move at a comfortable pace, watch your footing on uneven or slippery sections, and pause when needed to catch your breath and enjoy the views. Let faster hikers pass safely, and remember that the high elevation can make the climb feel more strenuous than expected.
Start early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Start your hike on the Navajo Loop Trail early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and a quieter trail. An early start can make the steep climbs more comfortable, help you avoid the strongest midday heat, and give you more time to take in Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos before the trail gets busy.
Stay on marked paths and keep away from cliff edges.
Stay on the marked paths throughout the Navajo Loop Trail, and keep a safe distance from cliff edges. The ground near the rim can be unstable, and loose rocks or steep drop-offs can pose serious hazards. Follow posted signs and barriers, and avoid stepping off-trail for photos or a better view.
