Pros & cons
PROS
- Peekaboo’s interior loop is noticeably quieter even on busy days
- One loop links three marquee trails—no shuttles or backtracking needed
CONS
- Wall Street can close, forcing a less dramatic detour via Two Bridges
- High rim altitude makes the final climb feel harder than the mileage suggests
Park at Sunrise Point or Sunset Point; both have lots by the rim and the closest restrooms. Start from either point and use the short Rim Trail segment to close the loop.
Steep, dusty switchbacks and uneven footing; altitude around 8,000 feet; limited shade and no water on route; Wall Street may close for ice or rockfall—check conditions and be ready to use Two Bridges instead.
Overview
This combo route stitches together Queen’s Garden, Peekaboo Loop, and the Navajo Loop into a single 6.3–6.4 mile total loop that dives below the rim, weaves through dense hoodoo mazes, and climbs back out on steep switchbacks. It’s the most efficient way to see Bryce’s greatest hits in one go—expect nonstop scenery and a solid workout.
Route & What You’ll See
Start from either Sunrise Point (Queen’s Garden) or Sunset Point (Navajo Loop). Many hikers descend the Navajo Loop (Wall Street when open), complete the Peekaboo Loop in the amphitheater’s heart, then climb out via Queen’s Garden and stroll the short Rim Trail segment between Sunrise and Sunset Points to close the loop. You’ll pass towering hoodoos, arches and windows, tight switchbacks in the slot-like Wall Street, the Two Bridges formation, and classic viewpoints near both rim points. Expect rolling terrain down in Peekaboo and a final sting-in-the-tail climb of roughly 320 feet to finish.
Difficulty, Stats, and Timing
Plan on ~1,575 feet of elevation gain overall and 3–5 hours depending on pace and photo stops. The grade changes and altitude make this feel moderate to strenuous for most hikers, especially if you’re not acclimated to ~8,000 feet.
Best Time to Hike
March through November typically offers the most reliable experience. Start at sunrise for cooler temps, softer light on the hoodoos, and fewer people—midday crowds pack Queen’s Garden and Navajo. Summer afternoons can be hot; winter brings snow and ice that can close steep sections and make footing slick.
Conditions, Closures, and Safety
Wall Street on the Navajo Loop occasionally closes due to rockfall or ice; if it’s closed, use the Two Bridges side. Surfaces are unpaved and can be dusty or muddy, with steep switchbacks requiring good traction. The altitude amplifies effort—expect the final ascent to feel punchy if you’re coming from sea level.
Logistics & Tips
- Trailheads, parking, and restrooms are at Sunrise and Sunset Points; there are no water refills on the loop—pack what you need.
- “Figure 8” won’t appear on signs; just follow the marked Queen’s Garden, Peekaboo Loop, and Navajo Loop segments and the short Rim Trail connector.
- No pets are allowed below the rim on this route.
Nature Notes
Keep an eye out for shifting rock colors in the Claron Formation—frost-wedging has sculpted the park’s signature spires and windows over millions of years. Wildlife encounters are occasional but possible in quieter stretches: mule deer, chipmunks, and various birds.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. If you only have half a day and want Bryce’s most iconic terrain in a single loop, this is the move. If you want a lighter taste, do just Queen’s Garden or Navajo, but the Figure 8 delivers the fullest experience for the effort.
Elevation
6.4 mi · 4 hrWhere it starts
37.6234, -112.1672Wildlife on this trail
Near Figure 8 Combination
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayNavajo Loop and Queen's Garden CombinationHoodoo showcase: slot walls, arches, and a steep finaleModerate · 2.9 mi · 2.5 hr
0 mi awaySunset Point to Sunrise PointBig hoodoo views on an easy, paved rim stroll between top overlooksEasy · 1.1 mi · 30 min
0.1 mi awayNavajo Loop TrailShort, steep dive into Bryce’s hoodoos with iconic switchbacksModerate · 1.3 mi · 1 hr
0.1 mi awaySunset PointPanoramas of hoodoos with trails dropping right from the rimTrailhead · Restroom
0.2 mi awayWall StreetSteep switchbacks into a slot of hoodoos and cool shade
0.2 mi awayThor's HammerSignature hoodoo with classic views from Sunset Point and Navajo LoopScenic Viewpoint
0.2 mi awaySilent CityA dense hoodoo maze viewed best from Sunset Point
0.4 mi awayQueen's Garden - Navajo LoopBryce’s signature hoodoo loop with tunnels and tight switchbacksModerate · 2.9 mi · 2.5 hr
