Under-the-Rim Trail
~3 days · 22.2 mi · moderate · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Under-the-Rim Trail is known for
The Under-the-Rim Trail runs about 23 miles point-to-point beneath the pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon National Park from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point, weaving through ponderosa forest, ravines, and hoodoo amphitheaters below the rim. Typically 2-3 days using the park's designated backcountry campsites; a permit is required and water sources are scarce.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 22,205 ft to 29,826 ft over 22.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 11.8 mi · 53%
- Downhill 10.1 mi · 46%
- Flat 0.2 mi · 1%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Under-the-Rim Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Under-the-Rim Trail scores 27/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Under-the-Rim Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Under-the-Rim Trail in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 22.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Under-the-Rim Trail?
The Under-the-Rim Trail climbs roughly 5,308 ft total — about 239 ft per mile, topping out near 9,108 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.