Hat Shop Trail

Hat Shop Trail is a 4-mile out-and-back from Bryce Point to orange hoodoos capped by gray boulders, following the first two miles of Under-the-Rim Trail each way. The National Park Service rates it strenuous and allows 3–4 hours. Choose it for a demanding trip below the rim and an unusual rock cluster; this isn't the easy way to see Bryce's hoodoos. Reservations aren't required, and pets aren't allowed.

The signed route drops from Bryce Point into the backcountry. About 0.1 mile in, take the right branch for Hat Shop and Under-the-Rim; the left heads toward Peekaboo. The descent starts fairly gently, then gets steeper among the formations. Views open toward the colorful cliffs of the Grand Staircase, and the route passes through forest before a short, steep climb to the Hat Shop.

At the turnaround, narrow orange pinnacles hold large gray boulders. The harder caps wear away more slowly than the softer rock beneath them, leaving the hoodoos with their distinctive hats. From the upper slope, you can see the cluster below; at the destination, frame the gray caps against Bryce's cliffs. A route account notes that early morning gives the formations their best light.

Turn around at Hat Shop and retrace the same trail to Bryce Point. Under-the-Rim continues farther south, so carrying on changes this outing into a different backcountry route. The return climbs steadily after the descent, and Bryce Point is above 8,000 feet. Published elevation-change figures differ, so plan for the strenuous effort rather than a precise gain.

Begin at the Bryce Point parking area and follow the Hat Shop/Under-the-Rim signs near the overlook. No water source is documented on the route. The NPS listing says no reservation is required and pets are not allowed.