Sunset to Sunrise Point

Bryce Canyon National Park, Ut

Geological Wonders, History, Viewing Benches

Difficulty: Accessible

Length: 1.1 mi (there and back)
Elevation Gain: 82 ft
Approximate Hiking Time: 0.5 to 1 hr
Features: Geological Features
Nearest Town: Tropic, Ut

It’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular hikes in the park.  Sunset to Sunrise Point is one of the easier parts of the Rim Trail which winds around the Bryce Amphitheater.  The trail provides walkers with spectacular views of the hoodoos below.

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  • Usage 100% 100%
  • Trail Head Easy to Find 100% 100%
  • Kid Friendly 100% 100%

Hike Highlights

1. Amazing Views

As you walk along the path between Sunset and Sunrise Points take time to enjoy the spectacular view of the Bryce Amphitheater below. 

2. Take a Seat

Benches are set along the half mile path spanning the distance from Sunset to Sunrise Point.  Take some time to sit, rest, and enjoy the view.  

3. A Slice of History

About half way between Sunset and Sunrise Point lies the Bryce Canyon Lodge.  A very short jaunt from the trail will bring you to a sign detailing the history of Bryce Canyon tourism. 

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Hike Overview

Trailhead Directions

Park at the Sunset Point parking lot or Sunrise Point parking lot which is located near the general store. To get the viewpoints follow the signs to Sunset or Sunrise Point and follow the half mile path that links the two.

Note that this is a fee area within Bryce Canyon National Park.  From the parking area walk out to Sunset Point where you’ll find the trailhead.

Hike Details

You can start this trail at either Sunset or Sunrise Point.  If you’re driving it’s worth it to come early to find a parking spot.  Otherwise take the shuttle which is pretty fast and easy.

Starting from Sunset Point, take some time to enjoy the amazing view looking down at Wall Street and Thor’s Hammer.

Bryce Canyon Sunset Point
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From here take the paved path towards Sunrise Point.  The path is relatively flat and paved for the entire trail, except the final walk up to Sunrise Point.

Bryce Canyon Sunset to Sunrise Point
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Take time to stop at the benches along the path and take in the views of the Bryce Canyon Amiphitheare below.  It is one of the largest concentrations of hoodoos in the world!

Bryce Canyon Sunset to Sunrise Point
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About half way to Sunrise Point there is a trail which heads to the Bryce Canyon lodge.  Here there are information signs about the history of tourism in Bryce Canyon.  It’s a fun little side path to learn a little of the history.

The trail turns to hard packed gravel as it climbs to Sunrise Point.

Bryce Canyon Sunrise Point
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Sunrise Point offers incredible views of the Queen’s Garden trail below and the Bryce Amphitheater in general.  It’s possible to bypass this and head towards the parking area and general store.

Bryce Canyon Queens Garden
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From here either turn around to walk 0.5 miles back to Sunset Point or take the shuttle if it’s operating.

 

Why is this hike rated accessible?

The trail between Sunrise and Sunset Points is paved the entire distance.  There is a small section that heads to the top of the Sunrise Point overlook that is steep and hard packed gravel, but still possible to get to with effort.

More Hikes to Choose From

Check out this and more hikes in and around Bryce Canyon National Park and Tropic, Ut.

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