Peekaboo Loop, Bryce Canyon National Park
Description
If you really want to have a true Bryce Canyon experience, the Peekaboo Loop is our favorite. We recommend descending via Navajo Loop, execute the Peekaboo Loop, then ascend through Wall Street. You will be amongst the hoodoos, hiking around and through them even. The scenery changes around every corner, with two common features through all of it — brilliant variations of the shade of orange and spectacular views all around you. Be sure to stop and smell the bark of a Ponderosa pine, they smell of delicious vanilla.
Tell Me More
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, the climb out is steep and may push some to a more challenging rating if they were to pick.
Trail Stats: 5.53 miles, 1,437 feet elevation gain. I don’t have a strong preference of completing the loop clockwise or counterclockwise.
Trail Finding: Relatively easy. Forks are marked. I would recommend having a trail map, but if you forget it, it will probably be okay.
Conditions: Variable shade, loose small gravel descending into the amphitheater. When we were last there in May, there was a surprising amount of horse droppings on the trail. Smell, flies, and affected our son who is allergic to horses. This was a surprising element that was not a problem when we had done this trail in the past.
Would I Repeat This: You bet, and we have!
Let’s Do This
Parking: The parking in the Sunrise and Sunset points parking lot is always full in the months outside of winter. That being said, many people seem to be in the area for the viewpoints, so if you do a few loops around you will probably be able to get a spot. Bryce does have a shuttle system too that will make a stop to this area.
Timing: Recommend start of the day to avoid the heat. The walk out is steep.
Downloaded Map: Not necessary, but helpful to know ‘how much longer’. I also enjoyed seeing where we were at for the elevation changes.
Fees: This hike is within Bryce Canyon National Park. You will be required to pay the entrance fee or to present your National Parks Pass.
Nearby Fun
Trails: So many! There are many recommended trails in Bryce Canyon National Park, including the Hat Shop, Navajo and Queen’s Garden Loop, Bristlecone Loop, and so much more. All of the overlooks within the park are worth stopping at as well.