NPS/Peter Densmore OverviewExperience the solitude of Bryce's forested backcountry and wilderness areas! To preserve this experience, backcountry camping is permitted only in designated campsites and a backcountry permit must be obtained prior to any overnight trips.
First time visiting?Please note that most first-time visitors are seeking the iconic scenery of the park's Bryce Amphitheater area. There are only day hikes located in this area, and no overnight camping below the rim. By contrast, Bryce Canyon's backcountry areas are defined more by forest punctuated with views of distant cliffs and features. While also beautiful, we suggest those looking to experience the park's most iconic scenery consider a combination of frontcountry camping and day hikes for their first visit. Permits and Fees: New ProcessBeginning December 1st 2022, overnight visitors to Bryce Canyon’s backcountry areas will be able to reserve permits for peak season trips up to three months in advance using the website Recreation.gov.
Trip Planning InformationPlease review the information below to help you prepare for your backcountry experience.
The Under-the-Rim Trail is approximately 22.9 miles (36.9 km) from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point. Connecting trails offer access from the park's Scenic Drive and intersect the Under-the-Rim Trail at Swamp Canyon, Whiteman Bench and Ponderosa Canyon trailheads. Agua Canyon Connector Trail at Ponderosa Point is closed until further notice due to storm damage. The Under-the-Rim Trail May Be Broken into Sections as Follows:
TH = Trailhead Note: Hitchhiking is not allowed in Bryce Canyon National Park. Backcountry Brochure We recommend you carry at least one gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day.
Please check at the Visitor Center for the most current information on water availability.
* Note: Water in Iron Spring has substantial sediment and metallic taste The Bryce Canyon Shuttle provides optional transportation to and from Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration, and Bryce Points April - October. It does not serve the southern end of the park. For transportation to the southern end of the park, contact one of our approved Commercial Shuttle providers. Bryce Canyon is home to many animals including mountain lions, coyotes and black bears. Squirrels, snakes and other small animals may also be present near your campsite.
Due to the presence of black bears within Bryce Canyon National Park, the following regulations and recommendations are also in place:
In the summer of 2010, a Black Bear had to be killed because it was conditioned to associate food with humans and began to exhibit aggressive behavior. Feeding wild animals is a form of animal cruelty. Please take your food storage practices seriously. Before your trip, we recommend you take a moment to review information on how to respond to bear encounters. Information about other animals that may be encountered in Bryce Canyon can be viewed at the park's wildlife page. Bear-resistant canisters are required, and available for loan, free of charge, at the Visitor Center If you have your own bear-resistant canister, you must present it to the backcountry ranger to make sure it meets park requirements (hard-sided and lockable)
Thru-hikers (Hayduke Trail) traveling and/or staying overnight in Bryce Canyon are still subject to park regulations. If you intend to stay overnight within the park, you will need to stop into the Visitor Center and obtain a permit. Plan ahead and make sure you have the proper bear-resistant canister and camp stove. Campsites fill up during the summer, so do not expect to arrive at any site at your leisure and start setting up camp without first checking in with a backcountry ranger and obtaining a permit.
Water sources within Bryce Canyon National Park can be unreliable and cannot always be
counted on! Please check at the Visitor Center for the most current information on water availability. The canyon can be an extreme and unforgiving environment. Make sure you carry enough water--one gallon per person per day--and make sure you drink it. Do not drink untreated water. Water in a stream, river or lake may look clean, but it can still be filled with bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can result in waterborne diseases! It is essential that you purify natural water. Purifying water involves filtering to remove large particles, and then treating by boiling or with chemicals to kill organisms such as bacteria, viruses and parasites. Plan ahead and prepare; your safety is your responsibility. Bryce Canyon National Park has had incidents of cows trespassing inside the park boundaries and defecating in springs and creeks. Cow defecation is known to have traces of E. coli and can contaminate water sources in the park. Water from backcountry sources must be purified.
Water caching is permitted within the park. Water must be labeled with your name and the
date. Caches are typically placed at the following locations. Do not cache anything with an odor or perishable items. Recommended locations for caching water.
The first step in the process is to collect the water you will drink. Chose a collection spot
The final step is disinfection. This can be done by either boiling, or treating with a disinfectant. This is the most important step. These methods will kill any remaining organisms in the water, especially those that could make you sick. Boiling: Disinfection:
WARNING: Do not use pool-cleaning tablets to disinfect drinking water! Poolcleaning ContactStill have questions? Send us an e-mail. |
Last updated: July 27, 2025