Fairyland Loop

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 rises 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.Once you reach Rim Trail, you've completed the hardest portion of this hike! Turn right and continue north, back to Fairyland Point. At this point, pass through some meadows and a sandy, beach-like area. Once you finally reach your destination, stop for a while and enjoy the views!