Peekaboo Loop

An overhead view of red rock formations with a blue sky in the background

The Peekaboo Loop is a strenuous hoodoo-filled descent-and-climb through Bryce Canyon. You'll descend 670 feet initially—then face a brutal 1,560-foot ascent back to Bryce Point with grades reaching 27%. The clockwise route is recommended. In summer, horses and mules share the trail; yield right-of-way. This is a grit-test for fit hikers only, not a sightseeing stroll.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 5.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 1560

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 5.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 1560
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours (fit hikers); 5+ hours if less experienced
Trail Surface: Firm native sediment with steep sections
Trail Features: Hoodoo spires and formations
Alpine descent and climb
Panoramic rim views
Seasonal horse encounters
Trail Highlights: Dramatic hoodoo formations—pale, jagged spires dominate the loop. The descent exposes the geology in detail; the ascent is the physical grit-test. This loop showcases Bryce's signature geology under relentless exposure.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Bryce Point
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Shuttle available when parking at capacity during peak season. Oversized vehicles (>15 passenger capacity) not permitted in parking area when shuttle is in operation.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required for day hiking.
Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fee, as of 2026-06-12)
Trail Status: Typically open; winter snow closures possible.
Seasonal Closures: Mid-winter snow closures likely (typically mid-December through February). Trail inaccessible due to snow depths of 2-15 feet.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Carry all water; minimum 2-3 liters recommended for this strenuous hike and full sun exposure.
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible. Firm native sediment surface but grades reach 27% max—terrain too steep and exposed. Not ADA compliant. Service animals allowed.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Full sun exposure at altitude
Steep terrain (up to 27% grade)
Altitude and elevation gain
Horse and mule encounters (summer)
Winter snow and ice (mid-winter)
Loose scree sections
Drop-offs and exposed edges
Hazard Details: Steep slopes with grades reaching 27% on descent and ascent. Full exposure to alpine sun—dehydration and heat sickness risk without water. Horses/mules present summer months; they have right-of-way. Heavy snow accumulation (2-15 ft) closes trail mid-winter. Exposed drop-off sections near rim.
Best Season: May through October (spring, summer, early fall). Winter snow (2-15 ft) may close access mid-winter.
Best Time To Visit: Start by 6 AM to beat afternoon heat and crowds. Spring and fall offer moderate conditions but bring layers—it's cold at altitude. Summer brings horses. Winter snow closes the trail mid-season.
Tips Advice: Carry 2-3 liters water minimum—no sources on trail
Trekking poles essential for the steep descent and relentless climb
Hike clockwise as recommended by NPS—the ascent is less demoralizing from that direction
Summer means horses—make noise, yield right-of-way
Start before 6 AM to escape afternoon heat; you'll bake in full sun
Check winter snow conditions before mid-winter visits

More details

Park Area: Bryce Point
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. Service animals allowed.
Shade Level: Full sun. Alpine terrain with zero shade. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, long sleeves) mandatory.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911 if cell service available. Contact Bryce Canyon Visitor Center for emergency support.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Mid-winter (typically mid-December through February); 2-15 feet accumulation possible. Trail likely inaccessible during heavy snow.
Insider Tips: The false summit at mile 2.5 tricks hikers—the real climb happens after
Clockwise is easier than counterclockwise; you'll appreciate this on the brutal ascent
Horses mean business—make constant noise, never stand on the trail
Summer afternoons are scorching; plan a 6 AM start and finish by noon
Your knees will thank you for trekking poles on the descent
Family Friendly Notes: Not recommended for young children. Rapid elevation gain (1,560 ft), steep drop-offs, and sustained physical demand make this unsafe for kids under 12. Older teens with solid hiking fitness and no fear of exposure may attempt with close adult supervision. Horses in summer add unpredictability.
Nearby Facilities: Pit toilets on the west side of the loop (summer only). No water sources on trail. Bryce Canyon Visitor Center has restrooms and drinking water. No gas, food, or lodging at trailhead—nearest supplies at park's main facilities.
Review Summary: Hikers respect the dramatic hoodoo geology but warn the elevation gain is relentless and full sun exposure is brutal. The clockwise route consensus is strong—experienced hikers praise the loop's beauty but confirm it's grit, not a leisure hike.