Sunset Point to Sunrise Point
Table of contents
The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park. This trail is family-friendly and appropriate for hikers of all ages and abilities. The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail is one of the few places that dogs are permitted in Bryce Canyon National Park, so please be respectful of other hikers and keep your dog on leash at all times.
Route Description for Sunset Point to Sunrise Point
The hike from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point is one of the most scenic hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park. This short trail can be extremely busy, especially in the height of summer. If you are hiking in the winter, be warned that this trail can get quite icy; we recommend bringing along a pair of traction devices such as microspikes for some extra grip. The hike from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point is one of the few areas in Bryce Canyon National Park where dogs are permitted. This is a great trail to enjoy with your pup, but please remember keep them on leash at all times.
Although Sunset Point and Sunrise Point are best visited at their namesake time slots, these viewpoints are breathtaking no matter what time of day you arrive. From Sunset point, you will get a fantastic look at the Silent City: a tight collection of hoodoos rising up above the canyon floor. At Sunrise Point, look northeast to see Boat Mesa and the Sinking Ship formation against the vibrant pink cliffs of the Aquarius Plateau.
To hike the trail from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point, begin at the end of Sunset Point Road. From the parking area, hike southeast a few hundred yards to Sunset Point before heading north along the Rim Trail. Stay right at all the trail divides and follow the Rim Trail for approximately half a mile to Sunrise Point.
Take a rest and enjoy the incredible views (or maybe even the sunrise) from Sunrise Point before turning around and retracing your footsteps back to the Sunset Point Trailhead where you began.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail?
The trail from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point is 1.8 km long.
Insider Hints for Sunset Point to Sunrise Point
- For a spectacular experience: start this hike just before dawn to catch the sunrise from Sunrise Point.
- If you are going to watch the sunrise from Sunrise Point, bring along a blanket and a hot drink so you can cozy up and enjoy the incredible views of the sun rising over the Utah horizon.
Getting to the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trailhead
From the Bryce Canyon Visitors Center, head south down Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive then take a left onto Sunset Point Road. Park at the lot at the east end of Sunset Point Road. The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail begins here.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
Year-round
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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