Bristlecone Loop I Hiked Hoodoos Scavenger Hunt

A Wayside panel with a peregrine falcon describes the Hike the Hoodoos program with a medallion

Bryce Canyon's 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program combines serious hiking with a tactical scavenger hunt for real rewards. You've got two routes: log 3+ miles on designated trails or hunt benchmarks with pencil rubbings and selfies as proof. Benchmarks span eight trails—Mossy Cave, Rim Trail, Tower Bridge, Queen's Garden, Navajo Loop, Peekaboo Loop, Sheep Creek, and Bristlecone Loop. Submit your documentation at the Visitor Center and claim your reward.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Loop
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Loop
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Trail Features: Hoodoos
Benchmarks for scavenger hunt
Historical/Interpretive information
Trail Highlights: Complete the 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program and earn an exclusive reward from the Visitor Center; hike or hunt through Bryce's iconic hoodoo landscape

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Bristlecone Loop Trailhead (along Bristlecone Loop Trail, coordinates 37.471537°N, 112.235496°W)
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required. Self-guided access to Bristlecone Loop Trail.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: The 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program is free. Participation requires either a 3+ mile hike or 3 documented benchmarks (pencil rubbings or selfies). Submit documentation at the Visitor Center for your reward.
Fees: $35 per private vehicle park entrance fee (as of 2026-06-12); program participation is free
Trail Status: Open and active

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0

Safety & strategy

Best Time To Visit: Year-round. Bryce Canyon is open 365 days a year, 24 hours daily. No seasonal closures documented for this program.
Tips Advice: Bring a pencil for benchmark rubbings (scavenger hunt requirement).
Bryce sits above 9,000 feet—pack double your normal water. Altitude hits hard.
Start early to maximize daylight; Bryce's weather can shift fast.
Get your Junior Ranger book at the Visitor Center; it has benchmark locations marked.

More details

Park Area: Bristlecone Loop area
Emergency Contacts: Bryce Canyon National Park Visitor Center or park ranger stations
Map Recommended: 1
Insider Tips: Benchmarks are NOT limited to Bristlecone Loop—they're on eight trails total. Mix and match to complete the hunt efficiently.
The Junior Ranger book shows benchmark locations; it's your tactical advantage.
You don't have to finish Bristlecone in one push. Hunt benchmarks as you explore multiple trails across the park.
Each benchmark has a unique location; some are marked with metal discs.
Family Friendly Notes: The program is designed for all individuals. Kids can hunt benchmarks or hike the 3-mile option with adult supervision. The flexible requirements accommodate mixed fitness levels.
Nearby Facilities: Visitor Center (where rewards are available and Junior Ranger books are distributed)
Review Summary: Hikers report the 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program engages all ages with achievable goals and tangible rewards. The scavenger hunt element adds purpose beyond standard hiking; flexibility in distance (3+ miles) or benchmark hunting keeps it accessible.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' and how does it work?

It's an official NPS program combining hiking with a scavenger hunt. Complete either 3+ miles of hiking on designated trails OR find 3+ benchmarks with pencil rubbings or selfies as proof. Submit your documentation at the Visitor Center for your reward.

Can I do this if I'm not a strong hiker?

Yes—the program offers two routes. Instead of hiking 3 miles, you can hunt benchmarks scattered across eight different trails. You control the distance and intensity.

Are there water sources or restrooms on the Bristlecone Loop?

Official data does not document facilities along the trail. Carry at least 2L of water (altitude dehydrates you fast) and plan your bathroom breaks before starting. Ask park staff for current conditions.

Do I need a permit or pre-registration?

No permits required. The program is free to join (though park entrance is $35 per vehicle). Just show up with your pencil for rubbings and documentation camera, then submit your proof at the Visitor Center.

Can kids do this?

Yes. The program is designed for all individuals. Kids can hunt benchmarks or tackle the 3-mile hike with adult supervision. It's a family-friendly goal.

What gear do I absolutely need?

Pencil (for benchmark rubbings), water (double your normal amount—you're at altitude), sun protection, and your Junior Ranger book (maps benchmark locations). A camera helps if you take selfies instead of rubbings.