The Navajo Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit for anyone exploring Utah. This short yet rewarding hike offers stunning views of the canyon’s iconic hoodoos—towering, thin rock spires shaped by years of erosion.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, this trail is perfect for all skill levels and is a great way to immerse yourself in Bryce Canyon’s incredible landscape.
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- NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL LOCATION
- NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL PARKING TIPS
- KEY INSIGHTS FOR HIKING THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
- BEST TIME TO HIKE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
- CAN THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL GET BUSY
- OTHER HIKES TO EXPLORE IN BRYCE CANYON
- IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE FOR BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
- PLACES TO STAY NEAR OR IN BRYCE CANYON
- PHOTOGRAPHING THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
- WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR DAY HIKE
- OTHER GENERAL TIPS FOR NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL LOCATION
The Navajo Loop Trail is located in Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce Canyon is one of the Mighty 5 National Parks, specifically within the state of Utah.
NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL PARKING TIPS
The Navajo Loop trailhead is best accessed from Sunset Point, one of the park’s most popular viewpoints. You’ll find Sunset Point is located about 5 miles from the park entrance.
Additionally, one of the great things about this trail is you’ll get a breathtaking panoramic view of the canyon before you even start the hike. If you’re looking for an extended walk, there is also the option of parking at Sunrise Point and walking along the rim to the trailhead.
During peak season, the parking lots can fill up quickly, therefore to secure a good spot, aim to arrive early. Ideally before sunrise if you want to catch the best lighting and beat the crowds. If you arrive later and the lots are full, there are Bryce Canyon shuttle services that can take you to and from other points within the park.
KEY INSIGHTS FOR HIKING THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
Distance: 3.2km | 1.4 miles
Elevation: 157 meters
Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate—there are some steep switchbacks, but most hikers can complete it comfortably.
Trail Type: Loop track
Open: Year-round, weather permitting. Snow in winter can make the trail more challenging.
Need to Have: Bring water, sunscreen, a camera, and a sturdy pair of shoes.
As mentioned, the Navajo Loop Trail starts from Sunset Point and as soon as you start the walk you’ll descend into the canyon. At the base you’ll be surrounded by the park’s famous hoodoos–towering rock spires that rise dramatically from the canyon floor. The scenery that you see here really puts into perspective the vastness of the landscape that you see from the rim.
Even though it’s a short walk there are incredible parts of the trail like Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon with towering walls on either side, and Thor’s Hammer, one of the park’s most photographed hoodoos. Even the views from the tops of the switchbacks is incredible.
In terms of walking Navajo Loop trail if you arrive in the morning I would suggest to walk the trail anti-clockwise. It’s an easier route as you only need to walk up one set of switchbacks rather than two and you’ll avoid walking up them in full sunlight since they’ll be shaded during this time. I suggest to start the hike shortly after sunrise as this is the time where the light really highlights the orange landscape and isn’t as crowded as the rim. Additionally, it’s perfect if you enjoy photography.
Overall, the Navajo Loop Trail and Sunset Point were one of my favourite solo hikes through Utah. The unique landscape makes it pretty unforgettable.
BEST TIME TO HIKE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
For the best experience on the Navajo Loop Trail, aim to start your hike just after sunrise. The soft morning light creates an incredible glow over the canyon’s orange and red rock formations. Not only will you avoid the heat and the majority of the crowds, but you’ll also get stunning images, too.
The trail is open year-round, but hiking in the summer can get hot, especially in the late morning and afternoon. Winter hiking offers a completely different experience with snow-covered hoodoos, but be prepared for potentially icy trail conditions. I visited mid-May and found that this was a great time to explore Bryce Canyon. It was much quieter and the weather conditions were great.
CAN THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL GET BUSY
The Navajo Loop Trail is a popular hike in Bryce Canyon, so it can get crowded, especially during peak season. As a result, if you’re visiting during these months, expect to encounter other hikers, especially later in the morning and afternoon.
To avoid the crowds, start your hike early in the day. Visiting during the off-seasons, such as late fall or winter, will also give you a more peaceful experience.
OTHER HIKES TO EXPLORE IN BRYCE CANYON
In addition to the Navajo Loop, here are some other hikes located within Bryce Canyon that you can add to your schedule:
- Queen’s Garden Trail: This easy, scenic trail is 2.9 km (1.8 miles) roundtrip and pairs well with the Navajo Loop Trail for a longer hike. Starting at Sunrise Point, it offers up-close views of Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos and leads to the iconic Queen Victoria formation. Ideal for families and beginners, and like Navajo Loop, it’s a great way to experience the canyon’s beauty with minimal effort.
- Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail: This 8.8 km (5.5 mile) trail is more challenging. However, it offers stunning views of Bryce’s amphitheaters and iconic formations like The Cathedral and Wall of Windows. Starting at Bryce Point, it’s perfect for experienced hikers seeking a longer adventure with beautiful vistas. You will encounter steep sections and significant elevation changes.
- Fairyland Loop Trail: At 12.9 km (8 miles), this less crowded trail offers solitude and expansive views of Bryce’s unique rock formations. Starting at Fairyland Point, you’ll pass landmarks like Boat Mesa and Tower Bridge on this peaceful, longer hike. Ideal for those wanting a more immersive experience away from the crowds.
Unfortunately I only had one morning to spend in Bryce National Park so Navajo Loop was my first choice. However, all of the above hikes will give you a different perspective of Bryce Canyon’s remarkable rock formations.
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE FOR BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Bryce Canyon National Park. Specifically, the cost is $35 USD per vehicle for a 7-day pass, which gives you access to all areas of the park. If you plan to visit multiple national parks (like I did), consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass. This provides access to all U.S. national parks for $80 annually.
PLACES TO STAY NEAR OR IN BRYCE CANYON
If you plan to stay overnight near Bryce Canyon, here are several options:
Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel is located just minutes from the park. This hotel provides modern amenities, a pool, and free breakfast–perfect for a comfortable and convenient stay. Price range: $$
Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn is a long-time favourite just outside Bryce Canyon’s entrance. It offers convenient amenities like pools and restaurants and is great for travellers wanting proximity to the park. Price range: $
Clear Sky Resorts Unique Stargazing Domes is a one-of-a-kind stay featuring domes designed for stargazing in a beautiful desert setting. Perfect for travellers seeking a unique glamping experience under the stars. Price range: $$$
Bullberry Inn Bed & Breakfast is a cozy B&B offering comfortable rooms and scenic views. Ideal for couples or a family seeking a peaceful stay close to Bryce Canyon. Price range: $$$
Bryce Canyon Pines is a rustic motel featuring charming cabins and a cozy diner known for homemade pies. It’s located just 10 minutes from Bryce Canyon. Ideal for a laid-back, budget-friendly stay. Price range: $
PHOTOGRAPHING THE NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
The Navajo Loop Trail is a dream for photographers. In particular, the dramatic hoodoos to the narrow Wall Street section, you’ll find endless opportunities for capturing unique shots.
The best time to photograph the trail is at sunrise, when the soft light enhances the warm colours of the rock.
For wide, sweeping landscape shots, make sure to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the canyon and its towering formations. When photographing the narrower sections, such as Wall Street, this type of lens will help you capture the towering canyon walls.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR DAY HIKE
As this is a short hike there aren’t many necessities that you’ll need but here’s a list of essentials that may be helpful:
- Water: As always on a hike, its best to bring a good stock of water with you.
- Comfortable shoes: Hiking boots or sturdy shoes with a good grip are recommended. The trail is covered in loose, sandy sediment.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are necessary. Even though in the canyon there will be points where you will be exposed to the sun.
- Snacks: I’m 100% a fan of the snacks on hikes. Energy bars or fruits are great for a quick boost.
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views.
- Layers: I highly recommend layers, especially if visiting before sunrise. The temperatures will vary, especially from early morning, leading into midday.
OTHER GENERAL TIPS FOR NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL
- Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Navajo Loop Trail. However, they are permitted on the Rim Trail between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point.
- The trail is suitable for children, but keep in mind the elevation change and drop offs.
In this post, we’ve covered the highlights of the Navajo Loop Trail, including its iconic hoodoos, Wall Street, and Thor’s Hammer. Moreover, knowing the best time to hike—just after sunrise to avoid crowds will give you the best experience. Additionally, don’t forget your camera for the breathtaking views, and pack essentials like water, sun protection and remember the tips for parking. With this guide, you’re fully prepared to experience one of Bryce Canyon’s most popular trails. Happy hiking!
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