Two Bridges

Twin stone arches tucked into Navajo Loop's canyon walls
Two Bridges, Bryce Canyon National Park
InsideBryce Canyon National Park

Overview

Two Bridges is a named rock feature on the north branch of the Navajo Loop Trail—a pair of natural rock bridges spanning between hoodoo walls in a slot-like section of the Bryce Amphitheater. It’s a quick but memorable stop that adds a bit of drama to an already iconic loop.

What You’ll See

  • Two stacked stone spans linking canyon walls, viewed from a signed pullout along the trail (no climbing; viewing is from the trail).
  • Sheer, colorful hoodoos all around, with Thor’s Hammer nearby and the classic Navajo Loop scenery.
  • The bridges reveal themselves just after the famous switchbacks, making for fun compositions as light rakes across the canyon.

Getting There & The Hike

You’ll reach Two Bridges by hiking the Navajo Loop from either Sunset Point or Sunrise Point (it’s commonly paired with Queen’s Garden, and can be extended with Peek-a-Boo). Clockwise from Sunset Point is a popular direction. Expect some steep switchbacks; they’re manageable but can feel punchy at elevation, especially on the climb out.

Geology Snapshot

Like Bryce’s hoodoos, Two Bridges formed as water, frost-wedging, and rain carved the park’s soft sedimentary (primarily limestone) layers. Over thousands of years, those processes left behind twin spans that bridge the gap between adjacent fins—an eye-catching twist on the usual hoodoo shapes.

Wildlife

Sightings aren’t specific to this spot, but along the Navajo Loop you may encounter birds, chipmunks, mule deer, and lizards. Keep a respectful distance and store food securely so the locals don’t get handouts.

Best Time to Visit

  • Light: Mid-morning and late afternoon bring warm, angled light that flatters the bridges and canyon textures.
  • Crowds: This is a marquee loop; arrive early or go late to thin out the traffic, and avoid weekends/holidays if you can.
  • Season: Open year-round, but trail conditions vary—expect ice or mud in the shoulder seasons and plan footwear accordingly.

Good to Know

There are no facilities at Two Bridges—restrooms, water, and parking are back at the rim trailheads. Don’t confuse this feature with the roadside Natural Bridge overlook elsewhere in the park; Two Bridges is only reached by hiking.

Pros

  • Striking twin rock bridges in a narrow canyon—great photo spot
  • Easy add-on along the Navajo Loop with a signed viewpoint near Thor’s Hammer

Cons

  • Very popular section; expect congestion in peak seasons
  • Steep switchbacks and slick or dusty tread can make the return taxing

Tips

  • Start from Sunset Point clockwise; it’s a smooth way to reach the bridges after the switchbacks.
  • Watch for the small sign a few feet off the trail—people often walk past it.
  • Arrive early or near sunset to avoid the densest crowds and get better light.
  • Wear sturdy footwear; switchbacks can be icy or muddy in shoulder seasons.
  • Carry water and snacks—there’s none on the trail near Two Bridges.
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