Length: .3 mi (.5 km)
Elevation Gain: 6 ft (2 m)
Route Type: Out and Back
Starting Location: Rainbow Point Parking Lot
According to the National Park Service, Yovimpa Point at Bryce Canyon National Park shows “one of the grandest, and longest views in the park, extending over 100 miles (161 km) across the tops of the colorful ‘steps,’ or cliffs, of the Grand Staircase.” From this viewpoint, you can also see “beautiful exposures of Bryce Canyon’s Pink Cliffs” as well as the Grey Cliffs and White Cliffs. This vista provides beautiful and unique photography opportunities and is definitely worth a stop!
Accessing Yovimpa Point
The Yovimpa Point Overlook is accessible from the Rainbow Point parking lot, found at the end of the Southern Scenic Drive on UT-63. It is one of the highest viewpoints in the park. This hike has a paved path with easy stroller and wheelchair access. From the sidewalk leading to Yovimpa Point, you can also access the unpaved Riggs Spring Loop and Bristlecone Loop Trails.
Be sure to check the park website for current road conditions as there are sometimes road closures, especially during the winter months. Please note that as the park shuttle does not go to Yovimpa Point, you will need to drive 18 mi (29 km) to get there. Thankfully there are several parking spaces as well as bathrooms at the Rainbow Point Parking Lot.
Hiking to Yovimpa Point
One thing I love about the trail to Yovimpa Point is how easy it is to navigate. Even after a long day of hiking, this short and flat trail is totally doable and beautiful. On the way up to Yovimpa Point, you will pass the entrance to the Bristlecone Loop Trail (not wheelchair accessible) which is home to bristlecone pines up to 1,800-years-old. Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, and White Fir trees also provide shade and beauty along the hiking trail. Because of the diverse landscape, you will likely see a Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel or Uinta chipmunk dart across the hiking trail on your way to the lookout.
Amazing Vistas and Photography Opportunities
The Yovimpa Point lookout showcases a vast drop off with amazing vistas. For example, if you turn to your left, you will see a large cliff formation beyond which is the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and the White and Grey Cliffs. To the right, you will see the rippling edges of Bryce Canyon’s Pink Cliffs. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Kaibab Upwarp on the horizon, which forms the northern rim of the Grand Canyon. (NPS)
Elevation and Weather at Yovimpa Point
With an Elevation of 9,115 ft (2,778 m), you will want to be prepared with extra water and layers as temperatures and weather conditions can vary. (Click here for my favorite water bottle!) In addition to changes in weather, altitude sickness is also a possibility at this elevation. Choose trails that match your fitness level and be mindful of signs of altitude sickness, which include headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and weakness.
When we visited Yovimpa Point in May 2024, the weather changed within minutes of our hiking there. Although the forecast for Bryce Canyon National Park that day showed up as “partly cloudy with a 0% chance of precipitation,” we found the weather to be sporadic and unpredictable. At first we encountered clear skies, however, they were quickly followed by snow and then sleet. When we heard loud claps of thunder echoing in the distance, we headed back towards our car. Lightning safety is of utmost importance in Bryce Canyon.
In spite of the crazy weather, I personally loved the dynamic skies created by the changing weather. They provided an amazing backdrop for my photos. The clouds also provided a natural soft box which I loved.
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you stop, the entire hike out and back at Yovimpa Point provides amazing landscape photography opportunities. Be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed shots of the hoodoos, change your perspective, and most importantly enjoy your time in Bryce Canyon National Park.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Bryce Canyon National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. Enjoy your time exploring the natural wonders of Yovimpa Point!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Do you want more information about photographing Bryce Canyon National Park? Check out our new Photographer’s Guide to Bryce Canyon National Park!
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