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Hike Bryce Canyon's Riggs Spring Loop

37.475289,-112.240302

5.0/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

8.71 miles

Elevation Gain

2044 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Jason Shepherd

A backcountry hike/camp in one of America's most scenic National Parks. The views are unparalleled and provide opportunities for great nighttime photography.

Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah is a spectacular place. It really has to be seen to be believed. Some of the most scenic parts of Bryce are easily accessible by the average visitor via car-accessible overlooks. However, if you're not into crowds or want to hike/backpack in Bryce...there are some wonderful trails and campsites! I recently did the Riggs Spring loop at the southern end of the park, which starts at Rainbow Point overlook.

I started the reverse way as I got there late in the day...so just a few miles to the campsite at Yohimba pass. It was labour day weekend and I had the whole place to myself...magical! After witnessing a spectacular sunset on the pink cliffs, I was treated to am amazing star show! Bryce has some of the clearest and darkest skies in the country...so if you're into night photography or just want to see the Milky Way in it's glory...I highly recommend it!

The loop is 9 miles total, so an easy two day hike, although you descend around 2000ft into the valley below and since you start at 9000ft this isn't an easy hike. The valley part of the hike includes beautiful pines, glimpses of pink cliffs throughout and just a lovely trail. You have to climb back up the 2000ft to Rainbow point, which is a slog...but you're treated to wonderful views of the Grandstaircase-Escalante area. Bryce is high up, between 7000-9000ft up so nights can be cold.

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Features

Camping
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Forest
Scenic
Wildlife

Hike Bryce Canyon's Riggs Spring Loop Reviews

Bryce is a really amazing place, super memorable. I would definitely include it on another road trip through Utah!

I just moved to Vegas and am so excited to be so close to this park! Thanks for sharing and can't wait to go explore it!

Utah by far has some of the most amazing parks I have ever seen. Bryce Canyon is no exception!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Bryce Point Trail