![]() NPS/Peter Densmore OverviewExperience the solitude of Bryce's forested backcountry on the Under the Rim Trail. Descending from the rim, this 22.9 mile trail meanders through forests & meadows, offering stunning views of rainbow-hued cliffs in the distance. The Under the Rim Trail follows the base of the Paunsaugant Plateau and is largely forested. The hoodoos are part of the distant vistas to the west as you hike the valley floor. To preserve this experience, backcountry camping is permitted only in designated campsites. A backcountry permit must be obtained at the Visitor Center prior to any overnight trips.
Fees and Permits$10/permit + $5/person, ages 16+ to obtain a permit. Cash and card accepted.
![]() Backcountry Guidelines and Regulations
Thru-HikersThru-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. ![]() NPS Backcountry Map and BrochureBackcountry Brochure Backcountry TrailsThe 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. TransportationThe 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. Water in the BackcountryWe 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
![]() Bears and Other WildlifeBryce 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.
Information about other animals that may be encountered in Bryce Canyon can be viewed at the park's wildlife page. |
Last updated: May 9, 2022