Mossy Cave Trail in Bryce Canyon: A Family-Friendly Winter Wonderland

Feb 5

.9 MILE OUT & BACK | ELEVATION GAIN 121 ft | EASY | ANYTIME | FAMILY FRIENDLY

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations, and one of its hidden gems is the Mossy Cave Trail. While this trail is popular during the warm months, winter transforms it into a serene and magical destination—perfect for a family outing.

Overview

The Mossy Cave Trail offers an easy and accessible hike that is ideal for families and casual explorers. In winter, the trail takes on a whole new character as water features freeze over, creating a spectacular display of icicles that adorn the cave and nearby waterfall. This winter transformation provides a safe yet enchanting environment for children and adults alike, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful walk while experiencing nature’s seasonal art.

Despite its popularity in the warmer months—when the trail tends to be bustling with activity—the winter season brings a quiet calm. With fewer visitors on the path, you can take your time, snap memorable photos, and truly savor the crisp mountain air and serene surroundings.

GETTING THERE

Accessing the Mossy Cave Trail is straightforward. The trailhead is conveniently located 1.2 miles west of the park’s east entrance, just under 4 miles from Tropic, making it an attractive option for families looking for a short day trip. It’s important to note that the overflow parking area used during the busy warm weather months is closed in the winter; however, this seasonal change means there are fewer cars, so you won’t have any problem finding parking. If you visit during the warmer months, plan accordingly by arriving early or using the main parking facilities to avoid any inconvenience.

ROUTE

The Mossy Cave Trail is a gentle, well-maintained path that follows a riverbed, which is typically dry during the winter months. Along the trail, you’ll cross two bridges. At the second bridge, a short distance away, you can catch a glimpse of the waterfall frozen into a massive display of ice.

Immediately after this bridge, you’ll encounter the only climb on the trail. Here, the path splits, offering you the option to either continue on to the mossy cave or detour to an overlook of the waterfall. On our hike, we first ventured to the cave and then stopped at the overlook on our way back.

In the colder months, the mossy cave transforms into a stunning display of icicles that drape from its edges.

The Mossy Cave Trail is a perfect winter escape for families seeking a mix of gentle exercise and awe-inspiring natural beauty. While it is a busy destination during the warm season, the winter months offer a quieter, more reflective experience, letting you enjoy the serene landscape without the crowds. With its easy route, captivating frozen features, and the charm of a winter wonderland, this trail is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bryce Canyon in the colder season.

Candice Outside https://www.candiceoutside.com