Under-the-Rim Trail

The Under-the-Rim Trail runs nearly 23 miles along the base of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, connecting Bryce Point in the north to Rainbow Point in the south through forest and meadow country well below the rim's famous viewpoints. This is the park's serious backcountry trail - eight designated campsites along its length, and three connector trails at Agua Canyon, Whiteman Bench, and Swamp Canyon that let hikers build shorter loops without committing to the full traverse.

Good to know

• Roughly 22.9 miles one-way, usually done as a multi-day backpack rather than a day hike
• A backcountry permit from the visitor center is required for any overnight stay
• Bear-resistant food canisters are required on overnight trips, on loan free at the visitor center
• Connector trails at Agua Canyon, Whiteman Bench, and Swamp Canyon allow shorter out-and-back or loop options
• More solitude and forest cover than the amphitheater trails, with fewer of the dramatic hoodoo views