Canyon Trail Rides

See Bryce's hoodoos from horseback, not just the rim

(246)

Tropic, UT

About

Canyon Trail Rides has been guiding riders through the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater for over five decades, operating out of Tropic and running the horse corral situated between The Lodge at Bryce Canyon and Sunrise Point inside the park. It's one of the few ways to see the hoodoos from below rather than above — looking up at the formations from canyon level is a genuinely different perspective than any overlook provides.

Rides Offered

Two guided options are available: a 2-hour ride that descends into the Amphitheater and a 3-hour ride that continues along the floor of the canyon via the Peek-a-boo Loop Trail. The longer ride passes landmarks including the Wall of Windows, The Chessmen, and the Silent City — dense clusters of hoodoos that are difficult to fully appreciate from the rim. Both rides use horses and mules.

Practical Details

There is a weight limit of 220 lbs per rider.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially in summer when demand is high.
The corral is inside Bryce Canyon National Park, so visitors pay the park entrance fee separately.
Riders should wear closed-toe shoes and long pants; the trail can be dusty and the sun is intense at elevation.
The Tropic office is located at 280 Bryce Way, about 11 miles from the park entrance.

Who It Suits

Canyon Trail Rides works well for travelers who want to experience Bryce differently, including those who find long hikes difficult. The 2-hour option is accessible to most reasonably fit adults and older children. Book well ahead for summer weekends — slots fill up fast.

Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards

Reviews (246)

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4.7

246 reviews

Google Reviews

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Reviewer6741

in the last week

Really nice staff! They have good mules and horses. Beautiful views just amazing

Phyllis Lubin

in the last week

Fantastic experience on the 1.5 hour ride into Bryce Canyon. Our guide was phenomenal and the ride itself was beautiful. My 7-year old was a bit nervous and the team put her on such a calm, gentle horse that she was having confident fun in no time. It was such a unique way to see the national park, highly recommend.

Sean Fenner

3 weeks ago

We did the 3 hour Bryce Canyon tour and I’m sure glad we did! I was a little apprehensive being that my wife had never ridden a horse prior to this. Not to mention the fear of falling off the side of a cliff. Needless to say we loved every second of it. Our guide Rachel was very helpful and knowledgeable of the area. She was so sweet and took the time to answer all of the questions my 11 y/o daughter had to ask, and trust me she had plenty. I would highly recommend the 3 hour tour regardless of your riding experience. The heights can get to you but we never felt like we were in danger.

Jaimie Sams

3 weeks ago

We had an awesome experience here and our guide, Rachel, was so kind, knowledgeable and funny. The other reviews are right - the horses do walk close to the edge but they know what they’re doing! You’ll see stunning views and it is a nice easy pace. Our 8 year old absolutely loved it. Would recommend!

Dawgs 1222

a month ago

Outstanding experience. VERY friendly people. We have done horseback riding a numerous National Parks, and this one was the best by far. Abbie was our guide. She was very knowledgeable. She stopped and checked scale fit several times. She had great knowledge of the park and told us interesting facts. I would recommend 100%