Bryce Canyon National Park

Sunset to Sunrise

easy FamiliesPhotographersFirst-Time Visitors
1 mi Distance
40 ft Elevation Gain
Varies Estimated Time
one_way Trail Type

What to Expect

This is Bryce Canyon's greatest-hits reel compressed into a mile-long stroll. The paved path connects Sunset Point to Sunrise Point along the amphitheater rim, serving up unobstructed views of the hoodoo forest below without asking much of your legs — the elevation change is barely noticeable, less than a four-story building. You'll walk along the canyon edge with nothing between you and thousands of orange-and-white spires but a few feet of air and some strategically placed railings. The trail surface is smooth and paved, though a couple of short grades might wind you if you're not used to the 8,000-foot altitude. Every few hundred yards delivers a slightly different angle on the amphitheater, and the light shifts constantly. This is the trail for anyone who wants Bryce's signature views without descending into the canyon — perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone squeezing in a quick hit between drive stops.
FamiliesPhotographersFirst-Time VisitorsScenic StrollersShort on Time

Safety Advisory

The rim edge is real and unforgiving in spots — keep kids close and stay behind railings. The drop into the amphitheater is several hundred feet with no second chances.

At 8,000 feet, even a flat paved walk can leave sea-level visitors short of breath. Take it slower than you think you need to, especially in the first hour after arriving at the park.

Trail Details

Distance 1 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain 40 ft
Difficulty easy
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type one_way
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Sunset to Sunrise
Trail Tips
  1. 1

    Walk it in both directions if you have time — the hoodoo formations look completely different depending on the angle of sunlight, and the return trip genuinely feels like a new trail.

  2. 2

    Start at Sunset Point and walk toward Sunrise Point in the early morning; you'll be facing east into the amphitheater as the first light paints the hoodoos orange and pink, which is the money shot.

  3. 3

    Use this trail as a connector to the Navajo Loop or Queen's Garden trailheads — both drop into the amphitheater from points along this rim walk, letting you combine the easy overview with a below-the-rim adventure without backtracking to your car.

More Trails in Bryce Canyon

Two people walk a trail of red earth wearing gear on their backs.

Under-the-Rim Trail

strenuous
22.9 mi
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Riggs Spring Loop

strenuous
8.6 mi ·4-5 hours hrs
An overhead photo of red rock formations that appear to be glowing in the sun

Fairyland Loop

strenuous
8 mi ·4-5 hours hrs
Red rock formations on top of a steep sandy slope with distant red rock formations in the background

Figure-8 Combination

strenuous
6.4 mi ·4-5 hours hrs

Explore Bryce Canyon National Park

2 campgrounds, 20 trails, 2.5M annual visitors

View Park Guide