Tower Bridge
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The trail drops a thousand feet, which means you're climbing a thousand feet on the way back. At Bryce's 8,000-foot elevation, that return climb hits harder than it would at sea level — pace yourself and carry more water than you think you need.
Sandy switchbacks can be slippery on the descent, especially if you're in worn-out shoes. Proper hiking footwear with tread makes a real difference here.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start early morning — you'll be hiking back uphill, and the afternoon sun on those exposed switchbacks turns a pleasant climb into a slog. A 7 AM start means you're back at the car before it heats up.
At the Tower Bridge junction, the spur trail is easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Watch for the signed fork about 1.5 miles in — veer left toward the formation rather than continuing on the Fairyland Loop.
The best photo angle of Tower Bridge is from slightly past the obvious viewpoint at the spur's end. Walk another thirty yards and look back — the arch frames against the sky instead of blending into the cliff behind it.
Photos
NPS Photo
