The Rim Trail

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. Trailhead: Bryce, Inspiration, Sunset, Sunrise, or Fairyland Point. Parking: Available at each trailhead above (check when parking lots are busiest). With the exception of Fairyland Point, oversized vehicles are not permitted in these parking areas when the shuttle is in operation. Distance: 1.0 mile to 11.0 miles (1.6 km to 17.7 km) depending on how far you choose to walk. 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) Approximate Time: 1 hour to 7.5 hours Elevation Gain: 719 feet (219 meters) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Services: Accessible restrooms available at Sunset Point (year-round) and available at the General Store near Sunrise Point (seasonally). Water-fill stations available at Sunset Point (seasonally), the Sunset Point restroom (year-round), and the General Store (seasonally). Shuttle Service: Yes. Available at Bryce, Inspiration, Sunset, and Sunrise Points. Fairyland does not have shuttle service. In winter, the 1.5 mile (2.4 km) section of the Rim Trail from Bryce Point to Inspiration Point is regularly closed. Pets are only allowed on the paved section of the Rim Trail between Sunrise and Sunset Points. Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal? 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. This section of trail is accessible and pet friendly on paved surfaces.