Carved by wind and water, Bryce Canyon’s eerie landscape of red-rock spires, arches and slot canyons has intrigued visitors for centuries.
Best Trek
The 5.5-mile Peek-a-Boo Loop Trail begins at Bryce Point, well above 8,000 feet, and quickly descends 1,500 feet to the canyon floor. Expect to share the trail with hikers.
Best Riding Season
Riders enjoy the best weather from mid-July through September.
Requirements
Bryce Canyon visitors must pay a $25 fee per vehicle, good for seven days of park access. All rides must be coordinated through Canyon Trail Rides; (435) 679-8665. Stock must be fed certified weed-free feed, beginning at least 48 hours prior to arrival, and for the duration of their stay inside the park. Park rules require a negative Coggins test for all horses. For additional information, visit nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit.
Facilities
The Horse Trail trailhead offers horse-trailer parking, but because park regulations forbid overnight camping, the park offers no other equestrian facilities. However, the nearby Dixie National Forest offers horse-camping options. For information, phone the Powell Ranger District at (435) 676-8815.
Flora & Fauna
Wildlife abounds in Bryce Canyon, home to antelope, bear, coyote, deer, elk and mountain lion, as well as California condors. Ponderosa pine, spruce, piñon and juniper thrive at the canyon’s higher elevations.
Hazards
Water your stock before hitting the trails, as water availability within the park is intermittent. Park officials recommend riders pack water, sunscreen, extra clothing, rain gear and food, as well as a hat, map and compass.
Resources
• Backcountry Horsemen of Utah
bchu.com
• Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce, Utah
(435) 834-5322
nps.gov/brca
• Dixie National Forest
Cedar City, Utah
(435) 865-3700
fs.fed.us/r4/dixie
Local Outfitters
• Bryce Canyon Pines Resort
Bryce Canyon
(800) 892-7923
brycecanyonmotel.com
• Canyon Trail Rides
Tropic, Utah
(435) 679-8665
canyonrides.com
• Mecham’s Outfitter and Guide Service
Tropic, Utah
(435) 679-8823
mechamoutfitters.com
• Rockin R Ranch
Antimony, Utah
(801) 733-9538
rockinrranch.com
• Ruby’s Inn Horseback Riding
Bryce Canyon
(866) 782-0002
horserides.net
• Scenic Rim Trail Rides
Bryce Canyon
(800) 679-5859
brycecanyonhorseback.com
