Trail

Wall of Windows Hike the Hoodoos

Trail
Wayside showing a wall of redrock limestone being shaped by ice also describes Hike the Hoodoos

Wall of Windows is a benchmark medallion on Bryce Canyon's western rim—one of nine stations in the official 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program. To qualify for rewards, hike minimum 3 miles or find 3+ benchmarks and grab proof (selfie or pencil rubbing) at each. You're at 9,000+ feet elevation with intense sun, rocky terrain, and hoodoo cliffs throughout. This is serious alpine hiking: pack triple water, start at dawn, and acclimatize to altitude.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Trail Surface
Rocky dirt, loose scree, uneven hoodoo terrain
Trail Features
  • Hoodoo formations
  • Benchmark medallion
  • Panoramic rim views
  • Orange and red rock formations
Trail Highlights
Part of the official 'I Hiked the Hoodoos!' benchmark program with rewards available at the Visitor Center for collecting medallion proof from three or more stations throughout the park.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Peekaboo Loop Trail entrance, western side of Bryce Amphitheater
Shuttle Required
0

Permits & conditions

Fees
$35 per private vehicle entrance fee
Trail Status
Open

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • High altitude exposure at 9,000+ feet
  • Intense sun exposure with minimal shade
  • Rocky uneven terrain
  • Cliff edges near hoodoo formations
  • Rapid dehydration risk
Hazard Details
High elevation causes altitude sickness symptoms—headache, shortness of breath, fatigue. Intense sun at 9,000+ feet burns fast; dehydration is rapid without constant water intake. Rocky, loose soil and uneven footing create ankle injury risk. Exposed cliff edges and drop-offs are present near hoodoo formations; falls are serious. Weather changes rapidly at elevation.
Best Time To Visit
Start by 6:30 AM before heat and crowds hit. Afternoon temperatures spike at elevation and you'll overheat fast even in spring. Go during the park's snow-free season when trails are fully passable. Avoid midday sun—your body at 9,000+ feet cannot recover from dehydration that quickly.
Tips Advice
  • Carry 3 liters of water minimum; dehydration sneaks up at altitude even in cool months.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are non-negotiable—UV intensity is extreme at elevation.
  • Wear solid hiking boots with ankle support; terrain is rocky and uneven throughout.
  • Bring a camera for benchmark selfies (proof for Visitor Center reward) or pencil and paper for rubbings.
  • Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.
  • Move slow and breathe deep; let your body acclimatize to thin air.
  • Confirm benchmark location with rangers before hiking—don't waste energy searching.

More details

Park Area
Bryce Amphitheater
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 or alert a ranger immediately. Nearest ranger station is at the Visitor Center.
Map Recommended
1
Insider Tips
  • Ask the ranger at the trailhead which benchmarks are easiest to spot—don't waste energy on a wild goose chase.
  • The Wall of Windows medallion is on the western side of Peekaboo Loop; confirm exact location before you hike.
  • Collect benchmark selfies or rubbings early in your hike while you still have energy.
  • Download a map to your phone even if the trail seems obvious; cell service is unreliable.
  • Late afternoon light hits the hoodoos golden, but you'll be exhausted by then—your best shots come mid-morning with fresh legs.
Family Friendly Notes
Altitude and physical demands make this challenging for young children. Some sections of Peekaboo Loop have steep, exposed areas requiring close supervision. Families with school-age kids who are hiking-fit may attempt shorter segments, but the full 3-mile benchmark hunt is not recommended for young children.
Review Summary
Hikers report the hoodoo views are striking and the benchmark reward program is a real incentive, though most underestimate the altitude challenge and sun exposure. Those who prepare with water and start early give it high marks; those who arrive late or underprepared regret it.

Location

Frequently asked questions

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

You can walk 3 miles at a slow pace, but 9,000+ feet elevation slows everyone down. Expect 3-5 hours if you're fit; 5-7+ hours if you're not. Start early, rest frequently, and be honest about your fitness level. Quitting halfway is better than a rescue call.

Is it safe to hike alone?

The trail is popular and marked, but it's remote. Carry a phone, tell someone your plan, and consider a partner. Cell service is spotty—don't rely on it. Stay on marked trails and don't wander off searching for benchmarks.

How much water do I really need?

Minimum 3 liters for a 3-5 hour hike at this elevation in the sun. Dehydration sneaks up fast at 9,000+ feet—the dry air masks how much you're sweating. There are no water sources on the trail; carry what you need from the start.

What exactly is the reward for collecting benchmarks?

Collect 3+ benchmark medallions with proof (selfie or pencil rubbing of each). Bring your proof to the Visitor Center and claim your reward. The 'I Hiked the Hoodoos' program is official; rewards vary by year.

Do I need a map to find these benchmarks?

The main trail is obvious, but finding specific benchmarks can be tricky. A map is cheap insurance. Ask a ranger exactly where Wall of Windows is before you start—it's marked as one of nine medallions on the western side of Peekaboo Loop.

What should I look for to spot the benchmark?

It's one of nine metal medallions mounted on rocks. Look for a circular marker. Wall of Windows is on the western side of Peekaboo Loop. If you can't find it after 10 minutes of searching, ask a ranger or another hiker.

Wall Street

Wall Street: 1.3 miles, 550 ft gain; slot canyon switchbacks—carry water.

Bristlecone Loop Trail

Easy 1-mile loop to ancient bristlecones at 9,100 feet—altitude will challenge you. Respect the elevation.

Day Hikes

Easy rim walks to strenuous hoodoo loops. Elevation is your challenge: thin air, lightning, loose rock.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated June 2026. Report an issue.