Tackle this scenic and relatively short loop trail for front-row views of the famous Thor’s Hammer formation, a thin sandstone pillar topped with a hefty rock.
The short Navajo Trail winds through a dramatic amphitheater in Bryce Canyon National Park, offering stunning views of the unusual rock formations eroded by wind and weather. Follow the 1.3 mile (2-kilometer) loop route for outstanding views of some of the park’s most-photographed pinnacles, columns and spires.
Although it is Utah’s smallest national park, Bryce Canyon is no less impressive than its bigger counterparts. Walk along the winding trail for some of the best vistas of the park’s collection of strangely shaped rock spires.
Set off from the rim of Sunset Point and continue along the trail as it descends down into the amphitheater. The initial descent leads to a narrow slot canyon, which is known as “Wall Street” because of the sheer cliffs that rise up on either side of it, resembling the tall buildings in New York City’s financial district.
As you trek along the trail, pause to view the strange, red-rock surroundings. Admire the colors of the rocks, which range from brown to rich orange and dusty pink. Look for the Silent City, a cluster of tightly packed spindly rock spires known as hoodoos. Bring along a camera to take photos of the unusual formations, which give the park an otherworldly appearance.
While the trail is not long, some steep descents and ascents are required. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring along water and sunscreen. For hikers who want more of a challenge, continue on to the connecting Queens Garden Loop Trail. Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Loop trails have a combined distance of just over 3 miles (5 kilometers).
Leave your car at Sunset Point Parking Lot just south of the Bryce Canyon Lodge and set off on the trail from there. Plan your hike along the Navajo Trail for the months between June and October. The trail is one of the most popular in the park, so don’t expect total solitude.
