There’s something about the Peekaboo Loop that feels like stepping into a hidden kingdom. After descending Queen’s Garden and winding deeper into Bryce Canyon, the crowds thin and the hoodoos tower taller, their spires and arches framing the trail like a natural cathedral. This section of the figure 8 is where Bryce feels its most wild – quiet, vast, and endlessly dramatic.
Trail Overview
The Peekaboo Loop is a 3-mile circuit winds through the heart of Bryce Amphitheater, taking you deeper into the hoodoos than most other routes. On its own, its a 3-mile loop that typically takes 2-3 hours depending on pace and stops for photos. The trail is rated moderate to strenuous thanks to steady climbs, and loose terrain.
Most hikers experience Peekaboo as part of the Figure 8 Combination, which links Queen’s Garden, Navajo and Peekaboo into one seamless adventure. The Figure 8 totals 6.4 miles with an elevation chang of around 1,500 ft, usually taking 3-5 hours to complete
- Trailhead: Sunrise Point (for Queen’s Garden) or Sunset Point (For Navajo/Peekaboo access).
- Best Direction: Clockwise for the best views and to align with Figure 8 flow.
- Highlights: The Wall of Windows, towering hoodoos, sweeping amphitheater views.
Along the Trail
As you enter Peekaboo, the hoodoos grow denser ad the walls more imposing. Here, the trail winds up and around crimson ridges, opening up to vistas that feel like hidden amphitheaters carved by time.
The trail lives up to its playful name: narrow passages open suddenly into sweeping views, and just when you think you’ve seen it all, another formation steals the spotlight.
The Heart of Peekaboo
Midway through the loop you’ll find yourself dwarfed by walls that seem to stretch endlessly skyward. It’s quieter here, and the only sounds are footsteps crunching against red dust and the occasional call of a raven echoing across the canyon
Hiking Tips
- Clockwise or Counterclockwise? Most hikers recommend clockwise to catch the big views head-on.
- Timing: Midday can be hot and exposed. Early morning or late afternoon light makes the hoodoos glow.
- Gear: Bring extra water – Peekaboo’s climbs sneak up on you. Trekking poles help with the ups and downs.
Closing Thoughts
By the time you rejoin the Figure 8 and head toward the Navajo Switchbacks, Peekaboo leaves you with a sense that you’ve stepped through Bryce’s secret corridors. It’s a trail that asks you to work – but rewards you with some of the parks most unforgettable perspectives.
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