Bryce Canyon National Park stands out as a premier destination within Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, captivating visitors with its breathtaking views, vivid hoodoos, and expansive vistas. Its unique landscape offers an unparalleled experience, making it a prime location for exploration—whether for a day or a week.
Park History
Established on June 8, 1923, Bryce Canyon National Monument was created to safeguard its “unusual scenic beauty, scientific interest, and importance.” Subsequently, on February 25, 1928, it transitioned to Bryce Canyon National Park, encompassing a sprawling area of 35,835 acres. This park boasts some of the clearest air quality worldwide, offering views that extend into three states and a visibility range of nearly 200 miles.
General Park Information
Park Entrance
Bryce Canyon National Park, UT-63, Bryce, Utah 84764
Hours of Operation
The park remains accessible 24 hours a day, although certain facilities have set operational hours. The visitor center operates daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Shuttle Services
Utilizing the complimentary park shuttle is recommended for alleviating traffic congestion; however, it is not mandatory. Upon arrival, parking is available at the visitor center, where the shuttle can transport you throughout the park. Given the limited parking at various overlooks, the shuttle enhances your ability to navigate the park with ease. For the latest shuttle times or schedule changes, please consult the National Park Service site prior to your visit.
Park Accessibility
Numerous locations within Bryce Canyon National Park are accessible. For detailed information on accessible areas, visit the National Park Service site .
Best Time to Visit
The summer months are the park’s peak season; however, visiting in early fall allows for a quieter experience on the trails, ample parking, and the tranquil opportunity to discover the park’s mesmerizing beauty.
Year-round access allows for exploring the park’s winter scenery, where snow-capped hoodoos present an enchanting perspective. However, caution is advised as certain trails may become hazardous in snowy conditions.
Passes and Fees
Fees vary based on your length of stay:
- Private vehicle (valid for 7 days): $35
- Walk-in (per person; valid for 7 days): $20
- Annual pass for Utah residents: $40
For frequent visitors, the America the Beautiful pass is an excellent choice for those planning to explore multiple national parks.
Getting There
When flying to hike Bryce Canyon, you have two primary options. Both Las Vegas and Salt Lake City are approximately 270 miles away. Las Vegas is recommended due to its affordable car rentals and accommodations.
Where to Stay
Finding lodging within or near Bryce Canyon National Park can be challenging from April to October due to high demand. Alternatively, the town of Panguitch offers reasonably priced accommodations if you are willing to drive slightly longer each morning.
Hotels
Accommodation options vary from luxury to budget-friendly:
-
Budget: In winter, prices tend to drop; consider staying at
Bryce UpTop Lodge
($72/night) or
Bryce View Lodge
($60-70/night).
Hostels
The Cowboy Bunkhouse is a popular hostel choice for visitors to Bryce Canyon.
Camping
Securing a campsite from April to October is competitive, but the shoulder seasons offer prime opportunities for amazing sites. There are two campgrounds:
- North Campground: First-come, first-served
- Sunset Campground: Requires a reservation
Fees are $20/night for tents and $30/night for RVs. Backcountry camping is also an option, requiring a permit available at the Visitor Center for $5. There are seven campsites along the 22.9-mile Under-the-Rim trail and three sites on the 8.8-mile Riggs Spring Loop Trail. Additional guidelines are provided on the park website .
What to Eat
A variety of dining options exist in Bryce Canyon City . Notable mentions include Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill, Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant, and Ruby’s Inn, each offering a unique culinary experience.
Best Hikes
Bryce Canyon offers diverse hiking options, from leisurely walks to more challenging trails. Even those not inclined to hike can admire stunning vistas from various overlooks.
Easy to Moderate Hikes
Rim Trail
This lengthy trail provides excellent views of the Bryce Amphitheater, with many opting to hike shorter segments, typically starting at Bryce Point or Fairyland Point.
Queen’s Garden Trail
An easy to moderate 1.8-mile trail beginning at Inspiration Point leads into the hoodoos, featuring a unique hoodoo resembling Queen Victoria.
Navajo Loop Trail
This trail, slightly strenuous due to its switchbacks, offers breathtaking views, including Thor’s Hammer. Many hikers connect this trail with Peekaboo and Queen’s Garden Trails for extended exploration.
Difficult Hikes
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, several longer trails provide opportunities for exploration.
Fairyland Loop Trail
This 8-mile loop is characterized by its stunning rock formations and relatively low foot traffic. Starting from Fairyland Point, the scenery offers numerous photo opportunities along the way.
Peekaboo Loop Trail
Starting at Inspiration Point, the Peekaboo Loop Trail provides a mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the canyon. Connecting to the Navajo Trail and the Queen’s Garden Trail allows for an extended hike in a truly breathtaking landscape.
Under-the-Rim Trail
The Under-the-Rim Trail is a multi-day hike spanning 23 miles one way with a 1,500-foot elevation gain. Stretching from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point, it stands as the park’s longest trail. For additional mileage, combine it with the Riggs Spring Loop Trail for a total of 31.5 miles.
Concluding Thoughts
Bryce Canyon National Park’s beauty is beyond description, making it an unforgettable destination. The park pairs elegantly with a visit to Zion National Park, providing an enriching adventure through Utah’s stunning landscapes.
