With crimson hoodoos, sweeping amphitheater views, high-desert forests, and plenty of trails, Bryce Canyon National Park makes it easy for families to experience the wonder of the great outdoors together. Kids can peer over the rim into an otherworldly landscape, spot ancient bristlecone pines, join a ranger-led program, and head out on family-friendly hikes for a memorable park adventure.
And with a stay at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, the adventure is even easier to enjoy. Just 15 minutes from the park entrance, upscale glamping brings the fun and freedom of camping for kids, along with the comfort and ease adults appreciate after a day on the trails.
Here’s your guide to the best family-friendly hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park.
About Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is located in Southern Utah, between Zion National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Bryce Canyon is known for its towering hoodoos, natural amphitheaters, and red rocks dotted with sagebrush and ponderosa pines.
Bryce Canyon is also part of the Grand Circle Road Trip, the ultimate Southwest adventure for exploring multiple national parks and monuments in a scenic loop.
Getting Around Bryce Canyon National Park
The free Bryce Canyon shuttle is one of the easiest ways to reach popular trailheads and viewpoints, especially in the busy Bryce Amphitheater area. Parking can be limited during peak travel times, so families will have the smoothest experience by starting early, using the shuttle when available, and keeping the day flexible.
Family Friendly Hikes in Bryce Canyon
Lower, Mid, and Upper Inspiration Points
Distance: 0.6 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Short, scenic, and rewarding, the Inspiration Point Trail is a great introduction to Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoo-filled amphitheater. This paved path leads to three viewpoints, each offering a higher view of the park’s landscape.
For families, this is a big reward for minimal mileage. Younger kids can enjoy the shorter walk to the lower viewpoints, while older kids may want to continue higher for the full experience. Upper Inspiration Point does have steep drop-offs, so keep children close and use caution if anyone is sensitive to heights.
Sunset Point to Sunrise Point
Distance: 1.1 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
The paved Rim Trail section between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is one of the best family-friendly hikes in Bryce Canyon for sweeping views with minimal elevation change (85 feet). The route connects two of the park’s most iconic viewpoints and gives families plenty of chances to pause, take photos, and admire the amphitheater from above.
This is a popular area throughout the day, especially around sunset. Families can make this a quick 20-minute walk or spend up to an hour exploring, depending on how often you stop along the way.
This trail is also a helpful starting point if your family plans to continue onto longer routes like Queen’s Garden or the Navajo Loop. More on those trails below.
Bristlecone Loop Trail
Distance: 1 mile round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Located at Rainbow Point, the highest point in Bryce Canyon National Park, the Bristlecone Loop Trail offers a very different side of the park. At roughly 9,000 feet in elevation, this peaceful loop winds through high-elevation forest with views toward the Four Corners region.
The ancient bristlecone pines, some of which are up to 1,800 years old, are a highlight along the trail. It’s also likely that you’ll spot flora and fauna on this high-desert trail. Plan for about 30 to 60 minutes.
Mossy Cave Trail
Distance: 0.8 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Mossy Cave Trail is a favorite for families because it’s short and scenic, leading you past hoodoos and a waterfall. Located in the northern part of the park, this gentle trail leads to a sheltered rocky overhang where moss grows in the summer and icicles form in winter.
You can continue to the Water Canyon area for a beautiful picnic spot. The combination of water, red rock, and easy mileage makes this one of the most rewarding short hikes in Bryce Canyon. Expect to spend about 30 to 60 minutes on the hike.
Queen’s Garden Trail
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
For families ready to descend below the rim and walk among the hoodoos, Queen’s Garden Trail is one of the best options. It’s considered the least difficult trail descending into the Bryce Amphitheater, making it a good choice for families with younger hikers who are comfortable with some elevation change.
Starting at Sunrise Point, the trail winds down into the canyon, giving you an up-close look at Bryce Canyon’s whimsical rock formations. The experience feels completely different from viewing the amphitheater from above, and kids will love feeling like they’re exploring another world.
Families can hike Queen’s Garden as an out-and-back route or combine it with the Navajo Loop for a longer adventure. Plan for about one to two hours, and remember that the return hike climbs back up to the rim.
Navajo Loop Trail
Distance: 1.3 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
The Navajo Loop Trail is short but steep, and offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Bryce Canyon National Park. This popular route features famous rock formations like Thor’s Hammer and Two Bridges, along with canyon walls, switchbacks, and unforgettable views.
With about 550 feet of elevation change, this trail is best for families with confident young hikers. It can feel challenging on the climb back up, so take your time, bring water, and plan breaks as needed.
For a longer route, combine Navajo Loop with Queen’s Garden for a 2.9-mile hike that includes rim views, hoodoos, canyon walls, and switchbacks. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Bryce Canyon for a reason. Plan for one to two hours for the Navajo Loop or closer to three hours for the combination route.
Tips for Family-Friendly Hikes in Bryce Canyon
A little planning makes family hiking in Bryce Canyon much easier. As you prepare for your adventure, keep these tips in mind:
- Start early: Head out in the morning for cooler temperatures, easier parking, and softer light on the hoodoos.
- Pack the essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and a picnic lunch to keep everyone comfortable and energized. Just remember to pack out what you bring in to leave no trace.
- Dress in layers: Bryce Canyon’s high elevation means mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer, while midday sun can feel strong.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Sturdy footwear is especially helpful for trails that descend into the amphitheater or include uneven terrain.
- Plan for downtime: Choose accommodations close to the park so it’s easy to return for naps, downtime, or dinner after a morning on the trails.
- Consider a park pass: If you plan to visit multiple national parks in a year, the America the Beautiful Pass is a good choice.
Family-Friendly Glamping Near Bryce Canyon
Under Canvas Bryce Canyon is a DarkSky-certified resort just 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park. Experience comfort in nature with upscale glamping accommodations, 700 acres of high-alpine juniper forest, and easy access to the park. The outdoor setting is exciting and adventurous for kids, with none of the stress for adults. Enjoy daily programming for guests of all ages, from morning yoga, crafts, and games to painting and live acoustic music. Then cap off each day with nightly s’mores around the campfire under a sky full of stars. With average daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s, Under Canvas Bryce Canyon is the perfect lodging choice to cool off and unwind after a day of Utah adventures.
For more inspiration, check out our guide to 14 Adventurous Family-Friendly Vacations in the U.S.