Fairyland Loop Trail

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Although this trail is officially called the Fairyland "Loop" Trail, it does not actually start and end at the same place unless you also include the approximately 2.5 miles of travel on the Rim Trail between Fairyland Point and Sunrise Point. Completing the circle using both trails ends up being about 8 miles.

From the Fairyland Point parking area, dip down into the canyon heading northeast on the well marked trail. As you descend steadily, the impressive Fairyland amphitheater of hoodoos is sandwiched in on your right between the trail and Boat Mesa. Watch for the Sinking Ship formation across the valley to the east. After about 1.5 miles, the trail reaches its lowest point and begins a stiff climb up to a saddle and the cliffs below the Coliseum. From here the grades ease a bit until the Tower Bridge Side Trail turnoff - note that it's well worth the short detour to ogle Mother Nature's creativity.

Once back on the main Fairyland Loop Trail, begin the challenging climb up through parched Campbell Canyon, also crossing its namesake creek. The meandering trail ascends steadily through open terrain passing the Chinese Wall formation to the south. More vegetation and gnarled trees (look for evidence of lightning strikes) begin to appear closer to the rim. The Fairyland Loop Trail ends at a "T" junction with the Rim Trail about 0.3 miles north of Sunrise Point.

Occasional rattlesnakes. Bristlecone pines.