Tower Bridge

A hoodoo arch reached by a scenic spur off Fairyland Loop

InsideBryce Canyon National Park

Overview

Tower Bridge is a named hoodoo-arch tucked below the rim, reached via the southern portion of the Fairyland Loop. The route is an out-and-back that descends from the rim to a signed, shady 1/4‑mile spur leading right to the formation [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/tower-bridge.htm).

Route & Logistics

You can access it from the rim trail north of Sunrise Point at the Tower Bridge trailhead, or fold it into the longer Fairyland Loop. If you’re doing the full loop, the park recommends hiking counter‑clockwise. There’s no shuttle pick‑up at Fairyland Point, so plan to return to your starting point. Parking is at Fairyland Point or Sunrise Point; note that oversized vehicles aren’t permitted at Sunrise Point parking when the shuttle is operating [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/fairyland-loop.htm). The spur to Tower Bridge is well indicated from the main trail [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/tower-bridge.htm).

What You’ll See

Expect classic Bryce scenery: airy hoodoos, fins, and colorful cliffs on the descent, then a close-up of Tower Bridge’s arch framed by tall “towers.” It’s a satisfying turnaround with plenty of spots to compose photos before tackling the climb back.

Difficulty & Time

This is a moderate outing with the classic Bryce pattern—down first, up last. The steady ascent on the return can feel long, especially mid‑day, so budget energy and water accordingly.

Amenities (or lack thereof)

There are no restrooms, water, or other services at the formation or along the trail. Seasonal restrooms and a water‑fill station are available at the General Store near Sunrise Point, which serves the trailhead area [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/tower-bridge.htm).

Best Time to Visit

Go early or late for cooler temps and softer light on the formations. Mid‑day can be hot and harsh for photos. If you plan to extend onto the Fairyland Loop, starting early also helps with parking and gives you time to enjoy the quieter northern end of the park [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/fairyland-loop.htm).

Pros

Photogenic hoodoo-arch formation with a dramatic backdrop
Straightforward spur off the Fairyland route with clear signage

Cons

Return leg is a steady uphill grind
No amenities at the formation or along the trail

Tips

Start from Sunrise Point if you want nearby seasonal restrooms and water at the General Store.
Carry plenty of water—there’s none on the trail and the return is all uphill.
Watch for the signed 1/4‑mile spur to the formation near the bottom.
If linking into Fairyland Loop, remember there’s no shuttle at Fairyland Point—plan your car logistics.
Aim for morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and better light.