Quick Facts:

Location: Bryce Canyon National Park

Coordinates: 37.475319492845294, -112.23959072973244

Length: 1 Mile

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 100 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Looking for a quiet spot in Bryce Canyon where you can soak in stunning views without the crowds? Rainbow Point, Yovimpa Point, and the Bristlecone Loop are just what you need. These lesser-known gems at the park’s southern tip offer breathtaking scenery and peaceful trails, perfect for a relaxed adventure.

How to Get There:

Getting to Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point is pretty straightforward. Just head 18 miles south from the park entrance along the main road (UT-63). It’s a beautiful drive with plenty of chances to stop and admire the views along the way. The road ends at Rainbow Point, where you’ll find parking and easy access to both viewpoints.

Parking Information:

Parking at Rainbow Point is usually easy to find, but it can get busy during peak season. If you’re visiting in the summer, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. And remember, the park shuttle doesn’t go this far south, so you’ll need to drive.

Landscape Description:

Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point are the highest viewpoints in Bryce Canyon, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. At Rainbow Point, you’re standing at 9,115 feet, with a panoramic view that stretches across the Bryce Amphitheater, the Grand Staircase, and even the Kaibab Plateau in the distance. It’s an ideal spot to catch the sunrise or sunset, with the changing light casting gorgeous colors over the landscape.

Yovimpa Point is just a short walk from Rainbow Point and offers a slightly different view, looking south towards the wide-open spaces of southern Utah and northern Arizona. It’s a great place to get a look at the Grand Staircase, a massive geological formation that stretches all the way to the Grand Canyon.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Bristlecone Loop is about as easy as hikes get—just 1 mile with very little elevation change. It’s great for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a short, scenic walk. You can probably finish the loop in 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how often you stop to take in the views or read the signs.

Is It Dog Friendly?

Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed on the Bristlecone Loop or most other trails in Bryce Canyon. So, if you’re traveling with your pup, be sure to make plans for their care while you’re exploring.

Local Regulations:

Let’s all do our part to keep Bryce Canyon beautiful. Stick to the trails to protect the landscape, and be sure to take all your trash with you, even those tiny food scraps. Drones aren’t allowed in the park to keep things peaceful. And, since the weather can change quickly (especially in winter), make sure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. By following these simple guidelines, we can help preserve this incredible place for everyone to enjoy.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re up for more adventure, the Riggs Spring Loop offers a deeper dive into Bryce Canyon’s southern wilderness. A short drive north from Rainbow Point brings you to the Agua Canyon viewpoint, where you can marvel at The Hunter and The Rabbit hoodoos. Not far from there, Ponderosa Canyon is another must-see, known for its towering pines and colorful cliffs.

Non-Hiking Activities Nearby:

Prefer a more relaxed experience? A scenic 38-mile drive through Bryce Canyon is a great way to take in the views without breaking a sweat. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center near the park entrance to learn about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife through interactive exhibits and a short film. And when night falls, Bryce Canyon’s famously dark skies offer the perfect backdrop for stargazing—don’t miss the ranger-led astronomy programs for an unforgettable evening under the stars.

Best Time to Visit:

For the best experience, visit Rainbow Point, Yovimpa Point, and the Bristlecone Loop between late spring and early fall. Summer brings warm weather and clear skies, but it can be busy. For cooler temperatures and fewer people, consider coming in April-May or September-October. Winter is also an option, but be prepared for snow and ice, which can make the roads and trails a bit tricky.