The Best Day Hikes
Navajo/Queen's Garden Trails: To truly experience magical Bryce Canyon, you should hike down into it, and this not-too-difficult combination of trails is the perfect way to go. Start at Sunset Point and get the steepest part out of the way first. You'll see Thor's Hammer, the towering skyscrapers of Wall Street, and some of the park's most fanciful formations, including majestic Queen Victoria.
Rim Trail: This underrated trail is a delight, providing splendid views down into spectacularly scenic Bryce Amphitheater from a variety of vantage points over its 5.5-mile length. More walking than hiking, the Rim Trail includes a half-mile section between two overlooks -- Sunrise and Sunset -- that is suitable for wheelchairs. Views are especially fine early in the morning, when you can watch the changing light on the red rocks below.
The Best Backcountry Hikes
Riggs Spring Loop Trail (Bryce Canyon National Park): Although this 9-mile loop can be hiked in 1 day, it's better as an overnight backpacking trip. This enables you to take your time to see wildlife (possibly even mountain lions), as you hike through forests of Douglas fir, ponderosa pines, piñons, and aspen, with views of the white and pink cliffs soaring above.
