Everything You Need to Know About Bryce Canyon's Fairyland Loop

I just can’t get enough of Utah’s incredible National Parks. They are each so unique and Bryce Canyon National Park is no exception. This park stands apart because it’s incredibly beautiful and unique hoodoos that rise up out of the canyon. These hoodoos are a product of erosion but are also incredibly beautiful. Hiking the Fairyland Loop trail in Bryce Canyon is a terrific way to see these incredible hoodoos up close & personal.

Last weekend, we had the joy of hiking the Fairyland Loop Trail. This trail was everything we dreamt it would be & more. The entire trail was views, views, views and more views. Everywhere we looked were bright orange hoodoos protruding out of the canyon as well as striking red cliffs.

The colors here in Bryce Canyon were so vivid, it’s unreal.

Why You Should Hike the Fairyland Loop

Bryce Canyon has many incredible hiking trails but the Fairyland Loop is one of the best.

Incredible Hoodoo Views

Expect 8 miles of non-stop hoodoo views on the Fairyland Loop. The entire 3.5 hours on the trail were spent “oohing and aahing” over the spectacular views. Every turn of the trail lead us to a view just as incredible as the last. Not many hiking trails provide you with insane views the entire way, but the Fairyland Loop sure does!

Escape the Crowds

Although the Fairyland Loop trail has the same incredible views as other trails in the park, it is a lot less crowded. Many people flock to the iconic Navajo & Peek-a-boo trails, and while these trails are also incredible, they can become very crowded. Even to the point that it’s heard to get a picture without other people in it.

Maybe it’s the mileage and the difficulty that comes with a longer hike that keeps the crowds at bay. But this just makes it all the worthwhile for those who are willing to give this trail a try.

Fairyland Loop – Basic Trail Details

Trail Length: 8 miles
Trail Type: Loop Trail
Elevation Gain: 1571 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead Location: Fairyland Point (which may be closed in winter months, access trail from Sunrise Point)

Trailhead Location

Technically, the trail starts from Fairyland Point, which can be accessed by N Camp Ground Road right before you come to the parks fee station. This road is frequently closed & not maintained in the winter months.

If the road is closed when you visit, you can access the trail from Sunrise Point. This adds a very short distance onto your hike, but nothing too much.

Hike in a Counter-Clockwise Direction

There are two directions to hike this trail: clockwise or counter-clockwise. If you choose to hike the trail clockwise, you’ll have a very long and slow descent (with various ups & downs) over 6.5 miles and then a very brutal last 1.5 miles.

Instead, I highly recommend hiking the loop in a counter-clockwise direction. This makes for a significantly less steep ascent at the end of the hike. If you’re starting the trail at Fairyland Point, start heading South (right) on the Rim Trail and then before reaching Sunrise Point, you’ll take a left down into the canyon. This way will also break up your elevation gain a bit better, so it’s not all in one stretch.

What to Expect on the Trail

Starting at Fairyland Point, hiking in a counter-clockwise direction, the first 2.5 miles on the Rim Trail will include an elevation gain of roughly 300 feet and will follow along the rim of Bryce Canyon. This section of trail will give stunning views of Bryce Canyon from above and you’ll be able to see for miles and miles.

After the first 2.5 miles, you’ll see a sign for the Fairyland Loop Trail and this is when the trail begins a steep descent into the canyon. The next 1.5 miles will be entirely downhill and you’ll notice that your views of the canyon will completely change as your vantage point lowers. I found this section of the trail to be the most awe-inspiring. As you approach the bottom of the canyon, you’ll start to see more trees. I just love the contrast of the green with the orange red rocks.

Tower Bridge is located at mile 4 on this loop and actually resembles the Tower Bridge in London. So neat to see. This is the lowest spot on the trail.

After the Tower Bridge, it’s a lot of ups and downs for just about the rest of the hike. The next 4 miles go up, around, in, and out of the majestic hoodoos. Although there are many ups and downs, you can expect a net gain of 600 feet over the next 4 miles. Most of which will be gained in the last 1.5 miles. Also, be warned, there is very little protection from the sun from here on out.

Pack These for a Fairyland Loop Day Hike

1. Good Hiking Shoes

Utah is the land of beautiful red rocks. But it also makes for some pretty rocky trails.

When hiking around Utah, it’s super important to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sandals on the trails. I wear brands like Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator, Teva Universal Trail (trail sandal), and Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof. My husband, who is very prone to ankle injuries, wears Salomon X Ultra Low GTX and swears by them.

I love being able to switch between a solid hiking boot and a trail sandal with excellent traction on the easier hike. I’m very prone to blisters and having different shoes to change into makes a world of difference.

2. Water Bottle & Hydration pack

Most of Utah is a desert, so it’s important to stay hydrated on hiking trails. Especially if you’re traveling during the hot summer season!

To keep your drink extra cold, go with a Hydroflask, which is vacuum-sealed and keeps your liquids cold for up to 24 hours. If you’re looking for something a bit more lightweight, go with the traditional Nalgene.

On longer hikes, fill up your Ospry Hydraulics Reservoir to keep your water easily accessible & hands free. My favorite day pack that accommodates a hydration bladder is the Osprey Mira 22 Hydration Pack.

3. Trail Snacks

A lot of the popular National Park trails in Utah are day-long hikes, so make sure you bring enough energy-boosting food to get you through the day.

Some of our favorite trail snacks are the traditional PB&J, grapes, trail mixes, Go Macro Bars, and RX Bars.

4. Sunscreen and Sun Protection

The sun in Utah is INTENSE. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen. This Sun Bum sunscreen is so light and easy to fit in your pack. Also, it’s super protective against the sun. It’s also reef friendly, so save it for your next trip to the beach!

In addition to sunscreen, make sure you protect your face with a sun hat. I really enjoy wearing this Vintage Style Cap from Amazon. It has tons of colors to choose from, I’ve been loving the yellow.

Sunglasses are never a bad idea, either.

5. Lightweight & Moisture-Wicking Clothes

Make sure to choose moisture-wicking clothing (aka NOT cotton), to pull the sweat away from your body and stay cool and dry while hiking.

These Icebreaker T-Shirts have been a favorite of mine recently, they’re excellent at keeping you dry. And the best part is that they don’t stink even after a long sweaty day on the trail!

6. Lots of Layers

Depending on when you visit Utah, you may encounter cooler than expected temperatures. Especially during an early morning or late evening hike. Don’t forget to pack a jacket for your trip to Utah.

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Everything You Need to Know About Bryce Canyon’s Fairyland Loop