Sunset to Sunrise Point: A Bryce Canyon Scenic Hike

Discover the stunning vistas of Bryce Canyon's Sunset to Sunrise Point trail, an unforgettable scenic hike ideal for both early birds and sunset chasers.

Last updated: May 2024

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Park entrance Fee: $35
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Embark on a scenic journey from Sunset to Sunrise Point in Bryce Canyon National Park, one of the most picturesque trails that captivates with its unique landscape. Starting at Sunset Point, you're greeted by the Silent City, an impressive assembly of hoodoos that stand tall above the canyon floor. As you proceed along the Rim Trail, the path unveils the grandeur of the Bryce Canyon, leading you to Sunrise Point. Here, the panoramic views of Boat Mesa and the Sinking Ship formation against the Aquarius Plateau's pink cliffs are simply awe-inspiring. Discover the stunning vistas of Bryce Canyon's Sunset to Sunrise Point trail, an unforgettable scenic hike ideal for both early birds and sunset chasers. Whether you're an early riser aiming to catch the sunrise or someone who appreciates the calming effect of a sunset, this trail offers a spectacular experience at any time of the day. The 1.1-mile journey is family-friendly and allows pets on a leash, making it an inclusive outdoor adventure. Remember to bring traction devices in winter due to icy conditions, and always keep your furry friends close.

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Itinerary

Start at the end of Sunset Point Road at the designated parking area.
Hike southeast to Sunset Point to begin your scenic journey.
Follow the Rim Trail north towards Sunrise Point, staying right at any trail divides.
Enjoy the remarkable views at Sunrise Point before heading back along the same path to the Sunset Point Trailhead.

Location

Rim Trail, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764

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Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Camera to capture the stunning views
Traction devices in winter (e.g., microspikes)
Blanket and hot drink (if planning to watch the sunrise)

4.9 ● Google reviews

We dry camped nearby in our van and entered the park on a Sunday in October at 10:00 am. Unusually hot weather temps in the 90’s. Public bathroom inside the lodge. Walked straight out to the overlook about 50 ft where anyone can access. The sunset and sunrise viewing overlooks are the trail heads the left goes down gently into Queens Garden which is very scenic with shaded spots. At the bottom it Y’s to choose to walk straight to a dead end and view of the tiny queen or left to connect to the Navajo trail back up. The connection between the two is minimally scenic with flat areas and pine trees. When you start back up you get on crowded brick wall built switchbacks. Navajo was not scenic or worth the extra hike in my opinion. It doesn’t matter which direction you hike the loop. The gift store in the lodge has more jewelry and native rugs. The main general store is very busy with bathrooms, a small interpretive center and souvenirs.

this is a stunning place! we decided to do the queens x navajo trail, which was awesome. we started at sunrise point and had the hike uphill lastly (video below). you’ll need a certain level of fitness for sure but i guess that’s obvious. parking wasn’t an issue because we arrived early (8am). there might be a longer waiting time for a parking spot if you’ll arrive later. what i liked best about our trail is the fact that we didn’t need a shuttle bus.

High altitude hiking at its best. Make sure you are hydrated and electrolyte up to help adjust to being 8000 ft above sea level. Came here in July and it’s Monsoon season but it barely rained the day we were here. Start your easy hike along the rim trail the day you arrive during mid or late in the day. Rim trail is above the canyons looking in. Start your canyon hike early to avoid crowds. Some shade along the Queens trail/Navahoo Loop which is nice and helps with the heat. Shuttle buses come often. Proper hiking shoes are reccomended or a good pair of cross trainers at least. No sandels or basketball shoes!

Beautiful even in dense snow and fog. We visited in December. Would recommend good hiking shoes if you plan to hike around in winter. Get chains or spikes to attach to your shoes if you don’t have good hiking boots in snow. We didn’t had any chains but only some good shoes. Went around the 2 mile trail. Started snowing heavily after we returned. Was beautiful view. Must plan ahead on the you want to stop by. Get maps or nps maps to make sure you don’t take wrong turns in to longer trails.

A place recommended for enjoying sunrise at Bryce Canyon National Park. There are not so many standing hoodoos at the views here, as there are already some destroyed ones standing between hoodoo clusters. So this is a good point to see hoodoos in their different life stages. Here you can also see the hoodoos at a big surface, all the way at the distance.

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