Riggs Spring Loop

Forested hills with rock formations in the background

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 8.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous. Altitude and descent are lung-busters.
Elevation Gain Feet: 2200

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 8.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous. Altitude and descent are lung-busters.
Elevation Gain Feet: 2200
Estimated Time: Day-hike: 6-8 hours for most people. Overnight: 2 days. Plan slower at altitude—high elevation drains fitness.
Trail Surface: Firm Native Sediment; rooty and steep in forest sections. Well-defined but natural terrain.
Trail Features: Bristlecone and conifer forests
Spruce and fir stands
Distant canyon views
High-elevation plateau terrain
Backcountry solitude
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Yovimpa Point
Parking Lot Size: Small capacity, typically 20-30 spots. Rarely full even in summer.
Parking Fill Time: Rarely fills. Arrive by 8am during July-August peak season; otherwise flexible.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No NPS shuttle. Private commercial options may be available; contact visitor center for details.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: 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.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: May be inaccessible mid-winter due to snow depths of 2-15 feet. December through April: high closure risk. Check conditions before committing.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: 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.
Accessibility: Rooty, steep, natural backcountry terrain. 2,200-foot elevation change. Not ADA accessible. Backcountry setting demands self-rescue capability.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: High elevation (9,000+ feet)
Sun exposure on plateaus
Steep descent (2,200ft)
Snow in winter
No water sources
Rapid weather changes
Remote location (no bailout)
Hazard Details: 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.
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.
Crowd Level: Ghost town. Backcountry loops are solitary by design. Most people are on rim trails.
Peak Crowd Times: July-August busiest due to school break. Weekends busier than weekdays. Still far less crowded than rim-trail alternatives.
Best Season: June through September
Best Time To Visit: June through September for snow-free access. Start by 5am if day-hiking to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Overnight trips are counter-clockwise standard; reserve permit early (bookings fill June-September).
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: Bryce Canyon High Plateau
Trail Markers: Well-worn in most sections; some cairns mark the route. Backcountry navigation required—not a beginner's route. Map and compass essential.
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are prohibited. Service animals only.
Biking Allowed: No
Shade Level: Mixed. Forest sections offer shade; plateau areas expose full sun. High altitude intensifies UV exposure—sunscreen is not optional.
Emergency Contacts: 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).
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: December through April typically snowed in. Check NPS forecast and trail report before committing.
Mud Season: April-May during snowmelt can create boggy sections on lower portions of trail.
Wildflower Peak: July-August in limited high-elevation pockets. Bristlecone zone doesn't have showy wildflower displays.
Fall Colors Peak: Late September through early October. Aspen and conifer color change is subtle at this elevation.
Bug Season: Mosquitoes July-August in wetter areas near camp. Not excessive at high elevation, but bring repellent.
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.
Recent Updates: Backcountry camping is restricted to designated sites only. Permit system is enforced. Check NPS Backcountry Information page for current trail conditions, site availability, and weather outlook before committing.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
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.
Review Summary: 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.

Location

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can I bring my dog?

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