A Hike to Mossy Cave

Mossy Cave is located at the end of a short hike in Bryce Canyon National Park in the beautiful state of Utah. The cave isn’t what one might typically think when imagining a “cave” but with easy access and a unique surrounding area, it is worth a visit.

This hike is about 0.8 miles round trip with some elevation change but nothing too strenuous. The trail is lined with unique hoodoos and windows that we found much more interesting than the cave itself. We particularly enjoyed the Servier River.

The Servier River follows and crosses the trail. This presence of water makes this area more diverse in wildlife and creates an unusual landscape compared to other areas of Bryce Canyon. Eventually, the hoodoos will crumble due to erosion, and a variety of new vegetation, such as willow, will sprout up.

Surprisingly, the Servier River also has a waterfall on it. It wasn’t a roaring waterfall while we were there, but it certainly was beautiful, nestled in among the Hoodoos. This waterfall can be reached by taking the split in the trail away from Mossy Cave.

Mossy Cave itself is really a grotto or a shelter cave. It was formed by an underground spring and changes throughout the seasons.

While we were there, the cave was empty but in cooler months, giant icicles will sometimes fill it. Other times it is full of moss, hence its name. The views from the cave are pretty and provide views of the surrounding area.

This whole place is very different from anything we have previously experienced. Unique to the state of Utah, Bryce Canyon is a wonderful location for an adventure.

Like many of our National Parks, over the last few years the Mossy Cave Trail has become overwhelmed with visitors. Littering and vegetation trampling have become major issues. Promoting and practicing Leave No Trace principles can protect these special areas and all of our natural resources.

For more information, visit National Park Service – Mossy Cave Trail.