The Fairyland Loop trail is one of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park. And that’s saying something considering the park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of the United States. The Fairyland Loop trail offers superb scenery over its eight mile length. There’s a bit of elevation loss and gain – 950 feet up and down but it’s done gradually so you’ll barely notice it. And the trail is very well signed.
I certainly recommend hiking the Navajo, Peekaboo and Queens Garden trails too – because they are in-your-face beautiful. But if you have a second day or you’re a strong hiker then the Fairyland loop trail offers a quieter beauty.
It took us 8.5 hours to hike both loops with lots of time for photography. Otherwise allow between 3 – 3.5 hours to hike just the Fairyland Loop trail.
The Fairyland Loop trail is one of the best one day hikes I’ve ever done.
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What the hike on the Fairyland Loop Trail entails
The Fairyland Loop Trail heads down on a well-signed trail past rock made of pinkish siltstone that is increasingly more spectacular the more you descend. Mind-blowing really.
After about 1.5 miles of hiking reach a spur trail to see Tower Bridge. It won’t take you long to hike it and its very worthwhile. It’s named for Tower Bridge in London, England because of its obvious boxy shape.
Head counterclockwise around Boat Mesa past a variety of wildly shaped hoodoos on the Fairyland Loop trail. There are a couple of short spur trails again where you can walk off to get some truly glorious, otherworldly views.
Before you start hiking the Fairyland Loop trail
Before you head off on the Fairyland Loop hike be sure to have lots of water and sunscreen. You’re at altitude here and staying hydrated is very important.
Always take the hiking essentials and let someone know where you are going.
Note: There is a free park shuttle to Fairyland Point from the park headquarters.
Where to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park
The easiest access point for the Fairyland Loop trail hike is from The Lodge at Bryce Canyon. It’s the only lodging in the national park.
There are lots of B&B’s and motels/hotels near the entrance to the park. A solid pick would beBest Western Plus Ruby’s Inn.
For answers to questions about Bryce Canyon National Park, visit their website.
More reading about hikes in Utah
- Moqui Caverns – Kanab Sand Caves Hike
- Best Hikes in Snow Canyon State Park
- Coyote Buttes South – A Great Alternative to The Wave
- The Devil’s Garden Hike in Arches National Park
- Murphy Point Canyonlands Hike, Utah
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