Under-the-Rim Trail

Under-the-Rim Trail is Bryce Canyon’s long backcountry route from Rainbow Point to Bryce Point: 22.9 miles one way, generally a two- or three-day trip with one or two nights out. The route gains about 5,500 feet along the way, even though you finish lower than you start, because it repeatedly drops into drainages and climbs back out. This is a strenuous wilderness hike, not a rim walk or a quick way to see the amphitheater. Do it for the distance, solitude and forested backcountry; pick a frontcountry loop if close-up hoodoos are the priority.

The trail follows the forested base of the plateau’s eastern edge. You’ll spend much of the trip among pines, open meadows and canyon drainages, with cliffs and hoodoos appearing at a distance rather than surrounding you like they do on the park’s amphitheater trails. From Rainbow Point, the usual south-to-north direction, the path descends from the high southern rim and rolls through several creek valleys. Iron Spring, Black Birch Creek, Ponderosa Creek and the Natural Bridge area all bring changes in grade and water crossings; expect repeated climbs rather than one steady ascent.

Swamp Canyon and Whiteman Bench are the main road-access junctions, but most of the route feels far from the Scenic Drive. The path passes the Swamp, Mud and Noon Canyon Buttes, then works through open and wooded stretches toward Yellow Creek. A broad view toward Rainbow Point opens from Seven Mile Viewpoint, about seven miles south of Bryce Point. It’s a good moment to look back at how far the trail has carried you beneath the rim. Near Yellow Creek, one detailed route report warns that the continuation can be hard to spot on the far bank; pause there, check your map and pick up the tread before moving on.

There are no services along the trail. Water sources are unreliable, and any backcountry water needs treatment; check with a ranger before leaving and plan to carry enough between sources. A full traverse is much more than a day hike for most people. Overnight hikers need a reserved backcountry permit and a designated campsite, and must carry a bear-resistant food canister. Fires aren’t allowed; use a pressurized-gas stove. Day hiking does not require a permit, but the route’s length and elevation make the full trip a serious commitment.

Start at the Rainbow Point parking area on the southern end of Scenic Drive and finish at Bryce Point. Parking is listed at both ends; restrooms are available at Rainbow Point, but there are no facilities on the route. The park shuttle reaches Bryce Point, not Rainbow Point, so arrange a second vehicle or pickup before setting out. Hitchhiking in the park is prohibited. Pets aren’t allowed on trails or in the backcountry.