Drive To Rainbow Point

The scenic Rainbow Point Drive follows the edge of the plateau and climbs over a thousand feet in elevation to Rainbow Point.

To get to Rainbow Point from the visitor center go south past the Sunset Point and Bryce Point turnoffs. You will leave the warmer drier Ponderosa pine forests and climb into the higher elevation Douglas fir and blue spruce forests.

At Fairview Point, stop for a great view of Table Cliffs and platforms that stair-step southeast to the Kaibab Plateau and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

As you continue south you will come to the Natural Bridge. This natural rock arch is 125 feet high and 85 feet in length. The rusty red color of the sandstone contrasts with the green forests and blue sky.

Agua Canyon is your next pull-out and one of the most spectacular views in Bryce Canyon National Park. The huge, colorful rock hoodoos are close to the rim. You can see the Pink Cliffs in the background and Navajo Mountain at over 10,000 feet in elevation.

At the end of the road you will come to Rainbow Point. This is a great spot for a picinic.

After lunch, explore the Bristlecone Loop Trail. The hike is a mile in length and you can take the Yovimpa Point spur trail for more wonderful views.

There is a stand of ancient bristlecone pines that grow on the rim of the plateau.

After your trip to Rainbow Point, as you head back toward the visitors center, be sure to take the short spur road to Fairyland Point. This overlook provides one of the best views in Bryce Canyon National Park. There are spectacular and colorful monoliths and spires. Walk down the trail to stand among the spires. This will be a great final stop on your tour of Bryce Canyon National Park.