Descends into Bryce Canyon with incredible hoodoo rock formations. You get right up close to Wall Street and Thor's Hammer. It's unlike anything else - the terrain and views are really something special.
This trail is part of Bryce Canyon National Parkin the Southern Utah region — explore all hikes in Utah.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
We did Navajo Loop on a crisp autumn morning and honestly, it was otherworldly. The hoodoos - those red and orange rock formations - are unlike anything we'd seen before. You're literally hiking down into this canyon surrounded by these towering, otherworldly shapes. Wall Street is wild - you're surrounded by these crazy thin hoodoos pressing in on both sides. Thor's Hammer is this iconic formation that looks exactly like a hammer. It's surreal.
The trail is three miles but it's all downhill on the way in, which sounds easy until you realize you have to come back UP at the end. That's where it gets real. 1,500 feet of elevation gain climbing back out of the canyon in the afternoon heat. We were definitely feeling it. The switchbacks get repetitive but the scenery keeps you going.
It's busy - like REALLY busy. We went early morning and still had people around us the whole time. If you can go on a weekday, do it. The trail is well-maintained and the scenery makes it worth the crowds and the climb out. Bring plenty of water, start early, and pace yourself on the climb back up. This is one of those hikes that sticks with you.
See our photos from this hike on Instagram @best.hikes.usa
Start Very Early
This trail gets incredibly crowded. Get to Bryce Canyon early, ideally before sunrise. The parking lot fills up fast and the trail can feel like a highway later in the day.
Bring Tons of Water
You're in a desert and much of it is exposed. Bring way more water than you think you need - at least 3 liters per person. There are no water sources on the trail.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses are non-negotiable. The sun reflects off the red rocks and can burn you badly even in cooler weather. Reapply frequently.
Plan for the Climb Out
The descent is fun but remember you have to come back up. Don't go too fast on the way down - pace yourself for the return climb in the afternoon heat.
Sturdy Boots
The sandstone can be slippery and uneven in places. Good hiking boots with traction are important for footing and ankle support.
Watch the Weather
Weather in the high desert changes fast. Check the forecast. Afternoon thunderstorms can come up quickly in summer.
Respect the Environment
The hoodoos are fragile. Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, don't climb on formations.
Bryce Canyon Lodge RestaurantRestaurant
Inside Bryce Canyon park. Offers American fare with decent views. It's convenient but can get crowded, but there's not many other options
View in Google MapsEbels Broach HouseRestaurant
Offers sandwiches, burgers, pizza. More casual dining. Good for a quick bite.
View in Google MapsRuby's InnRestaurant
Just outside park entrance. Restaurant with fairly standard fare - burgers, steaks, sandwiches. Bar with some local beers. Can be busy but reliable.
View in Google MapsPanguitchTown
Small town about 30 miles north with more restaurant options than the immediate park area.
View in Google Maps
ExpertThe most famous and most terrifying trail in Zion. Chain-assisted scramble along a knife-edge ridge with 1,500-foot drops on both sides. The views are unmatched but this trail is not for everyone. If you have any fear of heights or are unsure of your balance, turn around at Scout Lookout.
View Trail
EasyShort, sweet, and absolutely stunning. One mile round trip to a viewpoint overlooking Pine Creek Canyon and the switchbacks of the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Possibly the best view-per-step ratio in all of Zion. Easy enough for almost anyone.
View Trail
ChallengingThe longest and quietest loop in Bryce Canyon at 8 miles. Takes you through hoodoo valleys most visitors never see. Tower Bridge is the highlight - a massive natural arch formation. Fewer crowds, more adventure, and some of the park's most dramatic scenery.
View TrailThese are the items we bring on every hike. Links help support this site at no extra cost to you.
Desert trails are rocky and loose — ankle support is non-negotiable on this terrain.
We use: Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP
Bring 4+ liters in Utah heat. Most desert trails have no water sources — run out and you're in serious trouble.
We use: CamelBak Chute Mag 32oz
There's almost no shade on Utah's slickrock and canyon trails. A hat is not optional in this environment.
No tree canopy means full UV exposure. Reapply every 2 hours or after sweating.
We use: Neutrogena Sport Face SPF 70
You'll need the extra capacity for 4+ liters of water, sun protection, food, and a first aid kit.
We use: Osprey Talon 22
Canyon descents and loose desert rock are significantly safer with trekking poles.
We use: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Starting early to beat the heat is smart — you'll need a headlamp at the trailhead before sunrise.
We use: Black Diamond Spot 400
Desert mornings and evenings — especially at elevation — can be genuinely cold. Bring something packable.
We use: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
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