Your Guide to One Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National Park

Top Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Best Hikes:

• Queen’s Garden Trail (1.8 miles round trip): This is one of the easiest trails into the canyon, making it accessible for most fitness levels. It’s an excellent introduction to Bryce’s unique rock formations.
• Navajo Loop Trail (1.5 miles): The Navajo Loop offers a moderate challenge, especially on the climb back up. The Wall Street section is a highlight, with narrow passages between towering rock walls. If you choose the other route out of the canyon, you will pass Two Bridges and Thor’s Hammer during the climb.
• Peekaboo Loop Trail (5.5 miles): This strenuous trail is for more experienced hikers. It takes you deeper into the canyon, with significant elevation changes and fewer crowds. The views are worth the effort, making this a favorite for those looking for a longer hike.
• Sunrise to Sunset Trail (1 mile): This is the easiest hike in the park. Staying entirely above the rim. Follow the rim trail between the park’s two best viewpoints. 
• Mossy Cave Trail (.8 miles): This is the only easy hike below the rim. Walk along a stream and see a waterfall.
• Fairyland Loop Trail (8 miles): This strenuous trail is one of the longest in the park. Tracing the rim from Sunrise Point to Fairyland Point, then descending below the rim. This is a strenuous but also quiet hike away from the crowds.

Biking:

• Explore the park’s paths on a bike. It’s a great way to cover more ground and see different parts of the park. Bike rentals are conveniently located within the park at the Historic Service Station near the lodge. There, you can rent mountain bikes or e-bikes. But all biking within the park is limited to the paved bike path, you can’t bike off trail or in the canyon itself.

Scenic Drives:

• The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive is an 18-mile road through the park and offers multiple viewpoints where you can stop and enjoy the scenery. Each point gives you a different perspective of the canyon.

Riding the Shuttle:

• The shuttle operates from mid-April to mid-October and is a convenient way to get around, especially during peak season. It stops at all major points of interest. The shuttle is free and great way to move around the park when things are busy. It’s also a great option if you want to shorten a hike along the rim.

Stargazing:

• Bryce Canyon’s dark skies make it an excellent spot for stargazing. On clear nights, you can see a sky full of stars, including the Milky Way.

Horseback Riding:

• Experience the park on a guided horseback ride. It’s a unique way to see the canyon and is suitable for all skill levels.

Camping:

• Spend the night under the stars at one of the park’s campgrounds. Camping in Bryce Canyon offers a close connection to nature and a quiet night away from city lights.

Park Ranger Programs:

• The park rangers at Bryce Canyon host many programs. For options when visiting, check out the calendar on the NPS website. 

FAQ

Some questions you might have when planning your one perfect day in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Is one day enough? Yes, one day is enough to see the main attractions of Bryce Canyon, especially if you start early and plan your day well.

How does the shuttle work? The Bryce Canyon Shuttle is a free service that runs during the high season from mid-April to mid-October. It operates from Bryce Canyon City into the park, with stops at major points of interest. It’s convenient during peak season when parking is limited. Remember, if you board outside the park, have a ticket or pass ready, the driver will ask for one.

What is the best time of year to visit? Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Bryce Canyon. The weather is mild, and the park is less crowded. Winter offers a unique experience with snow-covered landscapes, but some areas may be harder to access.

Is Bryce Canyon accessible for people with handicaps or mobility issues? Bryce Point and Sunset Point offer accessible viewpoints. The park also provides accessible restrooms and shuttle buses equipped for wheelchairs. However, many trails are steep and not wheelchair accessible.

What’s the weather like during the various seasons? Bryce Canyon has distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with cool nights, while winters can be cold with snow. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

What are the fees for entering Bryce Canyon National Park? The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing an America The Beautiful annual pass for $80, which covers all U.S. national parks.

What are the must-see lookout points at Bryce Canyon National Park?

1. Bryce Point: Known for its stunning sunrise views, this viewpoint offers a panoramic look over the Bryce Amphitheater and its countless hoodoos.
2. Sunrise Point: Ideal for early morning visits, this spot provides excellent views of the Bryce Amphitheater and is a great starting point for the Queens Garden Trail.
3. Sunset Point: Popular for sunrise and sunset, this viewpoint overlooks the Silent City and is the starting point for the Navajo Loop Trail.
4. Inspiration Point: This site offers breathtaking views from three levels, showcasing the full extent of the Bryce Amphitheater with its densely packed hoodoos.
5. Rainbow Point: Located at the end of the scenic drive, this viewpoint gives a broad view of the park and surrounding areas, including the Pink Cliffs and the Grand Staircase.