Hiking Path: Fairyland Trail Loop
Delve into the heart of Bryce Canyon National Park with the Fairyland Loop Trail, a captivating hike offering breathtaking views of hoodoos and panoramic vistas. The 8-mile loop blends the Fairyland Trail and about 2.5 miles of the Rim Trail, providing a less crowded experience compared to other trails in the park.
Starting Your Journey
The trail begins and ends at either Fairyland Point or Sunrise Point. The recommended route is to start at Fairyland Point and hike counter-clockwise, allowing for a gradual descent into the canyon followed by a moderate climb back to the rim.
Best Time to Hike
The ideal time to conquer the Fairyland Loop Trail is during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot, while winter conditions may include snow, making it less ideal for hiking.
Essential Gear
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential for navigating the trail's uneven terrain.
- Water and Snacks: Bring enough water (at least 3 liters per person) and snacks to sustain you throughout the hike.
- Sun Protection: Include sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun.
- First Aid Kit: Always carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Map or GPS Device: Use a map or a GPS device to stay on track. Downloading the GPX file can be helpful.
Additional Considerations
- Elevation Gain and Distance: The trail has an elevation gain of approximately 1,555 to 1,716 feet and spans 8 miles.
- Difficulty Level: Rated as moderate to strenuous due to the rolling terrain and elevation changes.
- Crowds: Expect moderate crowds, though fewer than at more popular trails like those in the Bryce Amphitheater.
Park Information
- Entry Fee: There is a park entry fee of $20+ per vehicle, or use the America the Beautiful pass.
- Shuttle Services: Note that the shuttle bus does not run to Fairyland Point.
This trail offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Bryce Canyon with fewer visitors, making it a must-do for those seeking solitude and stunning natural scenery.
Location and Travel Time
The Fairyland Loop Trail is located at Fairyland Point, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764. Travel time from St. George, UT is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The trail is outside the Bryce Amphitheater, an area visited by fewer park goers.
Safety Measures
If there is snow or ice, use micro-spikes and trekking poles for safety. Check with the rangers at the visitor center if there's doubt about the trail conditions.
Navigation
A National Geographic trail map for Bryce Canyon can be helpful for navigation. The most of the trails on the Fairyland Loop Trail were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Getting There
Travel time from Salt Lake City is approximately 4 hours, and from Las Vegas, approximately 4 hours. The shuttle bus does not run to Fairyland Point.
- To embark on the Fairyland Loop Trail, start at either Fairyland Point or Sunrise Point, with the recommended route being counter-clockwise for a gradual canyon descent and subsequent moderate climb.
- The trail's optimal season is during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October), when the weather is mild and the crowds smaller.
- Essential gear for the hike includes sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, sun protection, a first aid kit, and a map or GPS device.
- This trail offers a less crowded experience than other trails in Bryce Canyon National Park, providing a unique opportunity for solitude and breathtaking views of hoodoos and panoramic vistas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor-living enthusiasts and home-and-garden lovers alike.
