No. Dogs are not allowed on this backcountry trail. Service animals only.

Riggs Spring Loop - 8.6mi Strenuous Backpack

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Risky. No cell service, no bailout points. Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB). Tell a ranger your exact route and expected return time. Solo is technically possible but not recommended.

Q: What gear do I absolutely need?

Trekking poles (descent-saving mandatory), 3L water minimum, map/GPS device, headlamp, layers. Missing any = turn back. This isn't optional-gear territory.

Q: How long does this realistically take?

Day-hike: 6-8 hours for most people. Overnight: 2 days. High altitude slows everyone—don't plan like your road 5K. Add 2 hours to your estimates.

Q: What happens if snow appears mid-hike?

Descend immediately. This trail is impassable in mid-winter (Dec-April). Spring/fall: check forecast before leaving. If snow looks heavy, postpone.

Q: Do I really need a permit for overnight camping?

Yes. Permits are required and enforced for any overnight stay. Day-hiking is free. Reserve early through recreation.gov—June-September books up fast.

Distance

8.6 mi

Elevation Gain

2,200 ft

Est. Time

Day-hike: 6-8 hours for most people. Overnight: 2 days. Plan slower at altitude—high elevation drains fitness.

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

June through September

Overview

About This Trail

The Riggs Spring Loop is an 8.6-mile strenuous backcountry circuit at 9,000+ feet elevation with 2,200 feet of gain. Most hikers overnight (permit required), though day-hikes are possible for the very fit. The reward is solitude in bristlecone and conifer forests with distant canyon views—but this trail demands serious preparation. This is not a casual walk; it's a mountain commitment.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous. Altitude and descent are lung-busters.

Trail Highlights

Solitude in a true backcountry setting; views of distant cliffs through remote forest ecosystems. Counter-clockwise loop is standard. The payoff is psychological—earning a night in genuine wilderness far from rim crowds.

Insider Tips

• Counter-clockwise is the standard route—confirm current NPS recommendation before starting. • The descent is harder than the climb; save energy for the downhill. • Some hikers combine this loop with the Under-the-Rim Trail for multi-day trips. • The forest sections are navigational—keep map in hand. • Water is the limiting factor; don't improvise. • High altitude hits everyone—give your body time.

Best Season to Hike

June through September

Hiking Tips

Carry 3L water minimum—no fill stations exist. Treat any stream water.
Trekking poles are joint-saving mandatory on the descent.
Bring layers—high elevation, temps drop 30°F by dark.
Cell service is unreliable; tell someone your exact itinerary.
Turn back by 2pm if day-hiking.
Start acclimated if possible—altitude hits at 9,000+ feet.

Family Info

Not recommended for children under 12. The elevation and 2,200-foot descent exceed most kids' capacity. Teens 14+ with strong hiking experience and serious fitness can manage with close adult supervision.

What Hikers Say

Hikers report the elevation gain is relentless and the solitude is legitimate. Most rate it strenuous but worthwhile if you're fit and prepared. The descent is the killer—bring trekking poles or pay with your knees.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 8.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,200 ft

Duration: Day-hike: 6-8 hours for most people. Overnight: 2 days. Plan slower at altitude—high elevation drains fitness.

Difficulty: Strenuous. Altitude and descent are lung-busters.

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Firm Native Sediment; rooty and steep in forest sections. Well-defined but natural terrain.

Getting There

Trailhead: Yovimpa Point

Parking: Small capacity, typically 20-30 spots. Rarely full even in summer.

Fills Up: Rarely fills. Arrive by 8am during July-August peak season; otherwise flexible.

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Day-hiking is free. Overnight backcountry stays require a permit from recreation.gov/permits/4675330. Reserve in advance, especially June-September. Contact Bryce Canyon Backcountry office at visitor center for current availability and site specifics.

Fees: $35 entrance fee (private vehicle); $30 motorcycle; $20 per person on foot. Non-US residents 16+ add $100. Backcountry day-use is free; overnight permits vary by site.

Shuttle Available

No NPS shuttle. Private commercial options may be available; contact visitor center for details.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Dogs are prohibited. Service animals only.

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-worn in most sections; some cairns mark the route. Backcountry navigation required—not a beginner's route. Map and compass essential.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail—no reliable water fill stations. Some hikers filter from streams familiar with the route, but this is risky at high elevation during dry season. Carry all water or don't go.

Shade: Mixed. Forest sections offer shade; plateau areas expose full sun. High altitude intensifies UV exposure—sunscreen is not optional.

Cell Service: Unreliable to nonexistent. Verizon marginally better than others. Do not rely on cell for emergency contact. Tell someone your exact itinerary before leaving.

Hazards:

Elevation exceeds 9,000 feet; altitude sickness is a real risk. The 2,200-foot descent is relentless on knees and quads. Snow can trap you mid-winter (2-15 feet possible). No bailout creeks or alternate routes—you're committed to the loop once you start. Exposure to sudden weather changes on high plateau. Dehydration risk is serious with zero resupply options.

Emergency: Contact Bryce Canyon Visitor Center at nps.gov/brca for ranger assistance. Emergency: 911 (cell service unreliable). Nearest hospital: Garfield Memorial Hospital, Panguitch (25 miles away).

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Ghost town. Backcountry loops are solitary by design. Most people are on rim trails.

Peak Times: July-August busiest due to school break. Weekends busier than weekdays. Still far less crowded than rim-trail alternatives.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty, steep, natural backcountry terrain. 2,200-foot elevation change. Not ADA accessible. Backcountry setting demands self-rescue capability.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Yovimpa Point (trailhead) has restrooms. Visitor Center area 2-3 miles away (water refill, supplies, ranger info). North Campground and Sunset Campground nearby for pre/post-hike camping. No water sources on the trail—fill before you start.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this hike?

Only if you're fit. This is backcountry-grade strenuous—not a rim walk. High altitude and 2,200 feet of descent will humble you. If you haven't summited 12,000+ feet before, train first.

Is it safe to hike alone?

What gear do I absolutely need?

How long does this realistically take?

What happens if snow appears mid-hike?

Do I really need a permit for overnight camping?

Can I bring my dog?

📖 National Park Service — Riggs Spring Loop (official page) (checked 2026-06-13) 📖 National Park Service — Bryce Canyon National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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