Fairyland Loop

The Fairyland Loop is, in my opinion, the best hike in Bryce Canyon. This roughly 8-mile loop drops about 900 feet from the rim into a maze of hoodoos and winding drainages, then climbs and descends its way through some of the most dramatic terrain in the park before returning via the Rim Trail.

What sets this hike apart is how immersive it feels. You’re not just looking out over Bryce—you’re moving through it, weaving between formations and constantly shifting perspectives. The sweeping views are incredible, but it’s the close-up moments—the textures, the scale, the way the light hits the rock—that stay with you.

One of the highlights is Tower Bridge, a striking rock formation accessed by a short spur you won’t want to miss. It’s an easy detour and one of the most unique features along the route.

Despite being one of the most spectacular hikes in Bryce, Fairyland sees far fewer people than trails like Navajo or Peekaboo. Likely because of its length, but don’t let that deter you—it’s surprisingly moderate for 8 miles and, in my experience, much less strenuous than Peekaboo.

I’ve hiked this loop more times than I can count, and every time feels different. It’s one of my favorite places for an awe walk—you’re simply taking it in the entire time. If you’re looking for solitude in a truly extraordinary landscape, this is the trail.

An 8-mile loop that drops from the rim into Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos, offering a quieter, more immersive alternative to the park’s more crowded trails.

Awe Rating (1-5):

5 Length:

5-8 miles

Difficulty:

Moderate

Trail Type:

Loop

Time Needed:

Half Day

Highlights:

Big Views, Photography

Landscape:

Hoodoos, Canyon

Solitude Potential:

High

Trailhead Access:

Paved Access

Special Considerations, Best Season to Hike:

Best in spring and fall for comfortable temperatures. Summer heat can be intense with little shade, while winter may bring snow and icy sections—traction can be helpful. Start early in warmer months.

Things to Know

The Fairyland Loop Trailhead is located outside the main park entrance, meaning you can access the hike without entering the fee area
You can also connect to the loop from North Campground, making it especially convenient if you’re staying inside the park
The trail drops about 900 feet early on—save some energy for the climb back up to the rim
Tower Bridge is a short, worthwhile spur off the main loop—easy to miss if you’re not paying attention
There is very little shade once you’re below the rim—sun exposure can be intense, especially in warmer months
Carry plenty of water; this is a longer hike with sustained elevation changes
Footing is generally good, but expect loose dirt and some steeper sections on the climbs

More to Explore

If you’re drawn to longer, immersive hikes through Bryce’s hoodoos, the Peekaboo Loop offers a similarly close-up experience with more sustained climbing and a bit more traffic. For a shorter but iconic route, the Navajo Loop combined with Queen’s Garden delivers classic Bryce scenery in a more compact hike.