Where does the Fairyland Loop Trail start?

The Fairyland Loop Trail starts at Fairyland Point, which is just before the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance by the Visitor Center. The shuttle does not run to this trailhead.

How long is the Fairyland Loop Trail?

The Fairyland Loop Trail is about 8 miles long. It combines the Fairyland Trail with roughly 2.5 miles of the Rim Trail to complete the loop.

Is the Fairyland Loop Trail difficult?

It's a moderate hike with a mix of ascents and descents, topping out around 8,150 feet. Starting counter-clockwise from Fairyland Point makes the elevation gain more manageable.

What is the best direction to hike the Fairyland Loop?

Counter-clockwise is the preferred route. You'll descend gradually, do most of the climbing in the middle, and finish with a shorter uphill section back to the rim.

What is the best time to hike the Fairyland Loop Trail?

Summer and fall are the best times. The trail sits above 8,000 feet and can be covered in deep snow during winter and early spring. The road to Fairyland Point may also be closed in snowy conditions.

What gear do I need for the Fairyland Loop Trail?

Bring at least 2L of water, sun protection, and proper hiking gear. If snow or ice is present, use micro-spikes and trekking poles. A satellite communicator and a National Geographic trail map are also recommended.

Is there parking at Fairyland Point?

Yes, there is parking at Fairyland Point, but it requires a Bryce Canyon National Park entry fee. The shuttle bus does not stop at this location.

Are dogs allowed on the Fairyland Loop Trail?

No, dogs are not allowed on backcountry trails in Bryce Canyon National Park, including the Fairyland Loop Trail.

Is the Fairyland Loop Trail crowded?

No, it's one of the quieter hikes in Bryce Canyon. It offers a more peaceful experience compared to the crowded trails in the Bryce Amphitheater.

What can I see on the Fairyland Loop Trail?

You'll see incredible hoodoos, eroded rock formations, the Tower Bridge viewpoint, and scenic views of Fairyland Canyon and Boat Mesa—many of which aren't visible from the main park trails.

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Fairyland Loop Trail

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated August 11, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 8 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Total Climbing: 1600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowds: Moderate
Dogs: No Dogs
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Bryce Canyon National Park

The Fairyland Loop Trail is one of the best ways to experience Bryce Canyon without the crowds. This 8-mile loop takes you deep into a quieter section of the park, winding through stunning hoodoos and rock formations. It's a stunning area that gets overshadowed by the trails in the nearby Bryce Amphitheater. If you like hiking, the Fairyland Loop Trail is a must-do.

Where is the Fairyland Loop Trail?

Fairly Land Loop Start Map — To start the Fairyland Loop, head to Fairyland Point. The turnoff to Fairyland Point is just before you reach the fee station near the Visitor Center.

Trailhead Address:

Fairyland Point, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764

Fees:

$20+ Park Entry Fee

Get your America the Beautiful pass to enter.

The Fairyland Loop is a hybrid hike combining Fairyland Trail and about 2.5 miles of the Rim Trail (to close the loop). I recommend starting at Fairyland Point and hiking counter-clockwise, which is also what the park suggests. That way, you’ll descend gradually into the canyon, do most of the climbing by the middle, and finish with a shorter, easier climb back to the rim.

The shuttle bus does not run to Fairyland Point.

Best Time to Do the Hike

Fairly Land Loop Snow — The high points on this hike are above 8,000 feet, and snow is common in the winter and early spring, making the hike a much different experience than when it's clear.

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The best time to do the Fairyland Loop is in the summer and fall, when it's snow free. According to the park service, the Fairyland Loop can be covered in 2-15 feet of snow in the winter, and the road to Fairyland Point can be closed to vehicles. If you're in doubt, I'd check with the rangers at the visitor center.

Gear Recommendations

Given the distance and location of this hike, I'd recommend proper hiking gear here, including the essentials. Second-best choice is fitness gear.
Bring at least 2L of water.
There's not much shade on this hike, opt for some sun protection.
Cellular reception can be sketchy. If you have a satellite communicator, bring it.
If there is some lingering snow or ice on this hike, the rangers recommend using micro-spikes, which are like mini snow chains for your shoes. They allow you to dig into the snow and ice and not slip. They pair well with trekking poles to keep your balance.
Pick up a National Geographic trail map for Bryce Canyon. It's helpful to see trail distances and landmark names.

Essentials I’m Using Now

Garmin inReach Mini 2: Reliable SOS Everywhere on Earth
Sawyer + CNOC Water Filter: Easy & Reliable Safe Water
Nitecore NU25 Headlamp: Running late? Get home safe
Altra Olympus 275: Favorite trail shoes right now, no blisters and very comfy.
AllTrails Plus: Offline maps on your phone with the Plus level
Full November 2025 Gear List →

Fairyland Loop Trail Maps

Fairly Land Loop Trail Sign — There aren't a lot of junctions on this trail, and when you do see them, they're generally well marked.

Click to activate map

Print Map, Work With It Yourself

View Hike on CalTopo

Bring the Guide to Any GPS

Download the GPX File

After a short climb to the highest point on the Rim Trail, we descend, have some ups and downs, and then a climb out at the end.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 3 — You'll get some incredible views of the hoodoos from this quiet section of the Rim Trail.

The hoodoos you see below are technically outside of the Bryce Amphitheater, an area visited by fewer park goers.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 4 — There are ups and downs on this section of the Rim Trail, with more ups than downs. In fact, you'll hit the highest point of the hike, about 8,150 ft, on this stretch.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 5 — You'll pass by a few access points to the North Campground along the way. Stay on the Rim Trail.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 6 — At around 2.5 miles make the sharp left and start descending on the Fairyland Trail. Going straight brings you to Sunrise Point.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 7 — You can enjoy a long easy descent with spectacular views.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 8 — You'll also pass some incredible eroded rock formations that rival, if not surpass, those found on the more popular trails.

Most of the trails you're hiking on were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 9 — At around 3.8 miles you'll reach the turnoff for the Tower Bridge viewpoint. Check out Tower Bridge and then come back to continue the Fairyland Trail.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 10 — Enjoy the views of Tower Bridge, named after Tower Bridge in London. This is also a good place to have a snack and refuel for the rest of the hike.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 11 — Hike back to the junction and continue on the Fairyland Trail. This is roughly the halfway point, about 4 miles to go.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 12 — The next 3 miles consist of ups and downs through the hoodoos as you circumnavigate Boat Mesa.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 13 — At about a mile to go, you'll start to hike out of Fairyland Canyon. It's an uphill but not as hard as other sections like Wall Street.

Fairyland Loop Trail Directions 14 — And at the top of the climb, you're back at Fairyland Point. That's the hike!

Originally published August 11, 2025