The best way to experience Bryce Canyon National Park, this figure-8 trail meanders through various corners of the canyon and provides stunning ever-changing views of the towering hoodoos.
The Peekaboo and Queens Garden Loop trail is a 6 mile figure-8 hike in Bryce Canyon National Park near Hatch, Utah. Due to the distance and moderate ascent, this hike is considered moderate. Since it is within the boundaries of Bryce Canyon National Park, dogs are not allowed on this hike. It took us 2 hours 30 minutes with lots of stops to take pictures.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Peekaboo and Queens Garden Loop trailhead, search for the Sunset Point in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Kanab, Springdale or Hatch head north on Highway 89 and then take Highway 12 East. Go for 17 miles through the pay booth and into the main turnaround in the park. The parking lot area is to your left.
Driving Info: This is an easy paved drive the entire way. During colder months there is snow all along Highway 12, although that highway is well maintained.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in early February and started hiking around 11am. The weather was cold at 45 degrees. The wind was moderate throughout the hike and can be extra chilly as you sweat and ascend. There was snow all over the Peekaboo Loop due to the longer shadows, and requires either crampons or very careful hiking as you go up and down the trail.
Gear: We wore 2-3 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, gloves, hat & sunglasses. Gloves are especially helpful in the colder months or in the mornings. We used crampons, and although not necessary they were extremely helpful and supportive for the ascents on descents in the snow. The main descent at the beginning of the hike gets icy and steep. We used hiking poles as well. There is a lot of exposure and little shade so wear sunscreen.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow, but we suggest bringing a park map so you can clearly understand the intersections of various loop hikes. Signs clearly mark the difference sections as well.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. There is no water source along the trail. We at a few snacks but the hike only takes a few hours.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts at the main parking lot that often fills up during the busier months. There is a bathroom at the trailhead parking lot. You can easily spend an hour walking just the rim of the canyon to soak in the views.
Pictures of Peekaboo and Queens Garden Loop:
Like all trails within the main section of Bryce Canyon, this trail starts off with spectacular views of the hoodoo-filled canyon below.
As you descend you get up close & personal with exquisite rock formations.
In the winter time with snow, you get many layers of colors and depth.
Unique landscapes of hoodoos line the canyon walls in all directions.
Soak in the depths as you explore the interior of the canyon.
The Wall of Windows along the Peekaboo Loop trail.
After Peekaboo Loop and into Queens Garden Loop where the snow has melted off.
Dip under the archway.
Stunning landscape shots looking back down the canyon as you slowly ascend.
Pointy hoodoos now surround this section of the hike.
Ascend towards the tops of the hoodoos to get a new perspective as you complete the loop.
Going to be in the Kanab area? There's a ton of hiking, camping and outdoor activities to get up to. Check out our Ultimate Hiking & Travel Guide for our tips on the most amazing hikes within a few hours of Kanab.
