Yes, but hand-holding is mandatory for children under 12 (drop-offs on both sides). Children under 6 and those with altitude sensitivity should skip it.

Navajo Loop Trail

Q: Can I do this if I'm not super fit?

Yes—it's only 1.3 miles—but you'll feel every foot of the 515 ft gain at high elevation. Hike slowly, take breaks, and don't push through altitude sickness symptoms.

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes. The trail is well-marked and heavily trafficked during daytime. Stay aware on exposed sections near drop-offs and carry a whistle.

Q: Do I need trekking poles?

Highly recommended, especially for the descent. The switchbacks are steep and poles save your knees from absorbing the full impact.

Q: How much water do I need?

Minimum 2 liters. There's no water on the trail itself. Refill at Sunset Point before you start.

Q: What's the difference between Two Bridges and Wall Street?

Wall Street is steeper with better hoodoo close-ups; Two Bridges is gentler. Summer: both open for a full loop. Winter: only Two Bridges is open.

Overview

About This Trail

The iconic 1.3-mile Navajo Loop descends via tight switchbacks into the heart of Bryce Canyon's hoodoo formations, passing Thor's Hammer, the park's most famous landmark. At high elevation, the air is thin and the grade is steep (max 30%), but the views justify the burn. The loop has two sides: Two Bridges runs year-round, while Wall Street closes in winter. Most fit hikers complete it in 1–2 hours.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate—short but steep

Trail Highlights

Views of Thor's Hammer, the park's most iconic hoodoo, framed by narrow red-rock walls. Surrounded by hundreds of towering hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater.

Insider Tips

• Hike counter-clockwise (steeper descent on Wall Street is less punishing on the return). • Combine with Queen's Garden Trail for a 2.9-mile loop via the Rim Trail (more scenic variety). • Two Bridges section is open year-round and gentler; save it for winter visits if you want a legal alternative. • If parking is full, skip the lot-hunting—take the shuttle from the visitor center. It's faster. • The false summit at mile 0.8 tricks many hikers; the real payoff is just ahead.

Best Season to Hike

Year-round (Two Bridges section); Summer for full Wall Street loop

Hiking Tips

Carry 2+ liters of water—dehydration at high elevation hits fast.
Hike counter-clockwise (NPS recommendation) to manage the steep descent.
Trekking poles mandatory for the knees on the descent; they're not optional.
Start by 7 AM; afternoon thunderstorms can move in fast.
Wear layers—high elevation temp swings are extreme.
Take 30 minutes at the rim to acclimate before descending.

Family Info

Switchbacks are steep with drop-offs on both sides; hand-holding required for children under 12. At high elevation, children under 10 may experience altitude effects (nausea, fatigue). Not recommended for children under 6.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 515 ft

Duration: 1–2 hours depending on fitness and altitude acclimation

Difficulty: Moderate—short but steep

Route Type: Loop (summer, full Wall Street section); Two Bridges out-and-back year-round

Surface: Firm native sediment (packed dirt and stone)

Getting There

Trailhead: Sunset Point

Fills Up: Full by 7 AM during peak season (June–September)

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required

Fees: No fee for the trail itself. Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fee applies: $35 per private vehicle (as of 2026-06-12)

Shuttle Available

Shuttle service available via Bryce Canyon Shuttle system; recommended alternative if parking lot is full

Trail Rules

Dogs: No—pets not permitted on this trail (service animals excepted)

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked switchback trail; easy to follow

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail—carry all water (minimum 2 liters). Water fill stations at Sunset Point (seasonally); water available year-round at Sunset Point restroom.

Shade: Partial shade in narrow sections between hoodoos; exposed sun on ridges and switchbacks

Hazards:

Steep switchbacks (max 30% grade) with narrow sections (minimum 25" width). Exposed drop-offs on both sides. High elevation creates thin air and rapid weather changes. Loose native sediment can be slippery when wet.

Emergency: 911; Bryce Canyon Visitor Center (contact via nps.gov/brca)

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High—Navajo Loop is the park's most iconic trail; expect a conga line during summer

Peak Times: June–August, 9 AM–3 PM

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not wheelchair accessible. Steep switchbacks (max 30% grade) with narrow trail sections (minimum 25" width). Firm native sediment surface. Due to natural terrain, not considered accessible.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Restrooms and water (seasonal) at Sunset Point trailhead. Visitor Center, lodging, and additional services at park entrance (5–15 min drive from trailhead).

FAQs

Are there bears or dangerous wildlife?

No bears. Mule deer and pikas are common but avoid humans. Be loud if hiking solo.

Can I do this if I'm not super fit?

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need trekking poles?

How much water do I need?

Can my kids do this?

What's the difference between Two Bridges and Wall Street?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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