Bryce Canyon, Utah
Bryce Canyon is like traveling to another world. Famous for its hoodoos and incredible views, it is a red rock wonderland formed by wind, water, and snow. The park showcases the beautiful geology of Utah and highlights why it's a world class destination for solo travelers, nature lovers, and families alike.
About Bryce Canyon
For millions of years, water carved Utah's rugged landscape, giving the sprawling reserve of Bryce Canyon its unique and stunning vistas. In 1928, Bryce Canyon was established as a national park. It has the largest collection of hoodoos-- the distinctive rock formations at Bryce-- in the world. It sits at about 8,000 to 9,000 feet, making it much higher than other parks in the region. There are various trails and hiking paths from the rim looking down into the canyon, as well as down into the canyon itself.
How to Get There
From Las Vegas, go north on Interstate 15 and connect to highway 20 heading east. From there, take highway 89 going south, then highway 12 heading east. From Salt Lake City, follow the same route but heading south on Interstate 15 before connecting to highway 20.
What To Do
Everywhere you turn in Bryce Canyon, a gorgeous view awaits. You can easily drive the park in about 3 hours-- but be sure to factor in time to take in the views and maybe get in a hike or two! Check out:
Scenic Drive-- The park's 38 mile round trip scenic drive features 13 viewpoints along the route. The northern overlooks have to most hoodoos, but the southern overlooks have the most expansive views.
Rim Trail-- From this trail, hikers can see the Main Amphitheater from above. The trail extends from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point. It is about 5.5 miles one way, but many shorter options are available.
Inspiration Point-- This viewpoint offers diverse perspectives of the main amphitheater and has three levels of view points.
Bryce Point- One of the most popular viewpoints in the park, this viewpoint offers amazing sunrise views over the hoodoos.
Sunrise Point-- From this viewpoint you can see the Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship, which are set against the Pink Cliffs.
Sunset Point-- This viewpoint offer views of famous hoodoos such as the Silent City and Thor's Hammer. The colors here are striking!
Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point-- At the southern end of the park, Rainbow Point offers expansive views of the entire park, whereas nearby Yovimpa Point has views of the rock layers of the Grand Staircase.
Fairyland Canyon-- One mile north of the park entrance, this overlook allows you to see the hoodoos up close. If you'd like to hike, you can follow the trailhead for Fairyland Loop here, which descends into the canyon. You'll see Boat Mesa and ascend back up to the Rim Trail at Sunrise Point. Be warned: The trail is a strenuous, 8 mile endeavor!
Dogs are only permitted on paved surfaces in the park, limiting your options if you're traveling with pets. We were with our dog and were still able to drive to each viewpoint, but could only hike the paved travel between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point, and the paved Shared Use Path between the park entrance and Inspiration Point.
For similar views outside the park that were dog friendly, we explored Dixie National Forest. There are hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and backcamping, and you'll still see the hoodoos, juniper trees, and stunning views that make this region famous. Stop by the Dixie National Forest Visitor Center on the way to Bryce Canyon and pick up a map of all the trails.
We recommend:
Pink Ledges Trail -- A 0.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail that begins and ends at the visitor center. It's quick and easy, but takes you up close to the hoodoos!
Cascade Fall-- A 1.2 mile heavily trafficked back and out trail that features a waterfall. Hit the trail early to avoid the crowds!
Yant Flats Trails- A 3.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail with scenic views and rock formations.
Golden Wall Trail-- A 4.2 mile lightly trafficked loop trail that features beautiful wildflowers and red rocks.
Where to Camp
We chose to camp outside the park in a central location, as we were visiting Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, and Antelope Canyon. We had a fantastic stay at Bryce Zion Campground, which offers RV, tent, and cabin camping. They have a small store, clean showers, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Fees range from $42- $65 a night, and the campground is pet friendly.
Within Bryce Canyon, the North Campground has 99 sites available on a first come first serve basis. The Sunset Campground has 100 sites available April through October, and reservations can be made in advance. Backcountry camping is popular in the Spring through Fall, though it does require a permit. Stop by the Visitor Center to pick one up!
Wherever you choose to camp, remember Bryce Canyon is at a higher elevation than surrounding areas. We camped in the middle of August and still woke up very cold. Pack layers and plan ahead.
Costs and Fees
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle (read: not per person). If you plan on visiting multiple parks, we recommend buying the America the Beautiful annual park pass for just $80. If you visit just 3 parks in the year it pays for itself, and you're able to visit unlimited parks and re-enter as many times as you want.
Camping fees: Camping within the park averages around $20- $30 a night. Our campground in Bryce Zion Campground was $40 a night.
Tips and Tricks
Utilize the National Park website to get the latest updates and help plan your visit.
Bring in any food and water you want. There are limited to no options inside of the park.
Pack layers! Due to the high elevation, weather at Bryce Canyon can be highly variable. From October to May, temperatures fall below freezing most nights. It is coldest and snowiest between December and February. In the summer, days are pleasant and with lows around 60° and highs around 80°. While the summer months are warm, the rainy season occurs in July and August. Check the weather before your visit and be prepared!
Leave everything better than you found it. Clean up after yourself your pets, and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
Utah is a world like no other, and one of its gems is Bryce. Plan your stay, bring your camera, and get ready to explore!
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