How to plan a first visit to Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is absolutely gorgeous! The hoodoos don’t even look real at first; it feels like you’re standing inside a natural amphitheater carved out of bright red rock. If you’ve ever scrolled through Bryce Canyon National Park photos online, seeing it in person is even more impressive. This guide covers everything you need to know before your first visit, including where to stay, how to get around, which hikes are truly worth it, and more. If Bryce Canyon is on your national parks bucket list, this post will help you plan it without overthinking it.

About Bryce Canyon National Park

Located in southwestern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its towering red rock formations, known as hoodoos: tall, thin spires formed by erosion over millions of years. The park is also home to massive amphitheaters, panoramic viewpoints, and some of the best dark skies in the U.S.

Bryce Canyon is a certified International Dark Sky Park, making it an incredible place for stargazing. If you visit around the new moon, you may even be able to see the Milky Way in late spring through summer.

👉 Bryce Canyon is less than two hours from Zion National Park, making it a perfect addition to a Utah road trip or national parks loop.

Where to stay in Bryce Canyon National Park

Camping & Hotels Inside the Park

There are two campgrounds inside Bryce Canyon National Park:

North Campground

• Located across from the Visitor Center
• Reservation required from May 19 to October 7
• First-come, first-served the rest of the year

Sunset Campground

• Located west of Sunset Point
• Open April 15 to October 31
• First-come, first-served
• Offers a group campsite (7-30 people)
• Includes two ADA-accessible sites

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon

• Located inside Bryce Canyon National Park, near Bryce Amphitheater
• Only non-camping lodging inside the park
• Walking distance to trailheads and viewpoints
• Historic lodge with rustic-style rooms
• Open seasonally (typically spring through fall)
• Rooms book far in advance, especially during peak season

Camping & Hotels Just Outside the Park

Ruby’s Inn Campground

• Located just outside the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance
• Open seasonally (April 1 to October 31)
• Free Bryce Canyon shuttle stop on-site
• Avoids parking inside the park
• Adjacent to a large grocery store and gift shop
• Easy access to the Bryce Canyon National Park sign

Bryce View Lodge

• Located just outside the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance
• Part of the Ruby’s Inn Resort complex
• Soundproofed guest rooms
• Microwaves, refrigerators, and cribs available on request
• Free Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas
• Free self-parking, including RV, bus, and truck parking
• Continental breakfast included
• Pet-friendly (dogs only; fee applies)
• Access to fitness center
• Picnic areas and barbecue grills on site

Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

• Located near the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance
• Free daily breakfast (6:30–9:00 AM)
• Seasonal outdoor pool (open May 1 to September 30)
• On-site fitness center
• Free Wi-Fi and wired internet access
• In-room microwave and refrigerator
• Elevator access and extensive accessibility features

Bryce Canyon Homestead

• Vacation rental home suitable for groups
• Sleeps up to 8 guests
• Full kitchen
• Multiple living areas
• Private bathroom for each bedroom
• Walking distance to restaurants, grocery store, and town park
• Located near Bryce Canyon National Park
• Good option for families or multi-day stays

How to Get Around Bryce Canyon National Park

Driving Your Own Car

You can drive your own car inside Bryce Canyon, but I don’t recommend it during peak season unless you arrive very early.

There is only one main road and limited parking at the viewpoints. Parking fills quickly, especially between late morning and early afternoon.

👉 Pro tip: If you want a photo at the Bryce Canyon National Park sign, you’ll need to drive; the shuttle does not stop there. The sign is located between Ruby’s Inn and the park entrance.

Using the Free Bryce Canyon Shuttle

The free Bryce Canyon shuttle is the easiest way to get around the park. I never waited more than 15 minutes for it, and the shuttle made the entire visit stress-free. Just don’t forget your America the Beautiful pass.

• Runs every 15 minutes
• Very reliable
• Loop system with stops at major viewpoints and trailheads
• Requires a park entrance pass or America the Beautiful pass
• Includes a live shuttle tracker

What to Pack for Bryce Canyon National Park

If you’re wondering what should be on your Bryce Canyon packing list, here are a few essentials to keep in mind. And for more of my favorite outdoor gear, check out my curated gear shop!

• Layers: Even in July, nights are chilly. A lightweight insulated jacket is a must.
• Traction: If hiking in spring or winter, bring “microspikes” for your boots. The shaded switchbacks stay icy long after the rest of the trail has melted.
• Hydration: The high elevation will dehydrate you faster than you expect. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person and consider electrolytes.

Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Hiking in Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon offers hikes for all experience levels, from paved rim walks to steep switchbacks that descend into the amphitheater. Many of the Bryce Canyon National Park photos in this guide were taken along these trails, where the hoodoos look completely different depending on the light and time of day. I recommend checking out AllTrails’ top picks and hidden gems, but below are some of my favorite hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Walk the Rim Trail (Easy)

The Bryce Canyon Rim Trail offers nonstop, breathtaking views and connects many of the park’s most famous overlooks.

• The Route: The full trail spans approximately 5.5 miles, running from Bryce Point to Fairyland Point.
• The Shortcut: I took the shuttle from Ruby’s Inn (Stop #5) to Bryce Point, then walked to Inspiration Point. This is a great way to get oriented and enjoy incredible views without a strenuous climb.
• Pet Friendly: The paved section between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point is the only trail in the park where leashed pets are allowed.

Wall Street and Queens Garden Loop Trail (Moderate)

The Wall Street and Queens Garden Loop Trail is the “must-do” hike in Bryce Canyon and the best way to experience the scale of the hoodoos up close. Queen’s Garden is especially fun for kids, as many of the hoodoos seem to have faces, some resembling the Queen and others forming familiar, imaginative figures.

• Distance: ~3 miles round trip.
• The Strategy: Most hikers recommend going clockwise, starting at Sunrise Point and ending at Sunset Point. This route allows you to descend gently through Queen’s Garden and finish with the dramatic climb up Wall Street.

Navajo Loop Trail to Peekaboo Loop (Moderate)

For a more challenging and unforgettable hike, combine the Navajo Loop with the Peekaboo Loop. This route offers nonstop views of towering orange spires and iconic formations like Thor’s Hammer. Be prepared for steep sections, loose gravel, and the occasional horse team passing through.

• Distance: ~5 miles round trip.
• Don’t Miss: Thor’s Hammer, Bryce Canyon’s most famous hoodoo, sits near the top of the Navajo Loop close to Sunset Point.
  

Other Popular Hikes & Viewpoints

• Fairyland Loop (Moderate/Hard): An 8-mile hike that’s far less crowded and feels like discovering a hidden side of the park.
• Rainbow Point & Yovimpa Point: The highest viewpoints in the park, located at the very end of the scenic drive.
• Bristlecone Loop: a short trail near Rainbow Point through ancient bristlecone pines
• Mossy Cave Trail: A short, easy walk that follows a creek past hoodoos to a small waterfall and a shaded overhang filled with moss in summer and icicles in winter, perfect if you’re short on time and don’t want to hike into the amphitheater.

Watch the Sunrise

Bryce Canyon faces east, making it a world-class spot for sunrise photography.

• Best Spots: While Sunrise Point is the obvious choice, Bryce Point actually offers a wider panoramic view of the sun hitting the hoodoos.
• The “Glow”: For about 15 minutes after the sun clears the horizon, the orange limestone literally looks like it’s glowing from within.

👉 Pro tip: Bring warm layers! Bryce sits between 8,000–9,000 feet, and even summer mornings can feel near freezing.

Stargazing in Bryce Canyon

As an official International Dark Sky Park, Bryce Canyon offers some of the best Milky Way views in the lower 48.

• Pro Tip: Visit during a New Moon for the darkest skies.
• Ranger Programs: Look for the “Dark Ranger” telescope sessions at the Visitor Center; they’re fascinating and well worth your time.

Beyond the Hiking Trails

If your legs need a break from the switchbacks, there are plenty of other ways to explore:

• Biking: While you can’t bike on the dirt trails, there is a 5-mile Shared-Use Path that connects the shuttle station to Inspiration Point. It’s perfect for a breezy afternoon ride and makes a 10-mile round trip.
• Horseback Riding: Canyon Trail Rides is the only outfitter that takes you into the canyon. It’s a very “Old West” experience that saves your knees from the hike back up!
• The Scenic Drive: Don’t just stay at the main amphitheater. Drive the 18-mile Southern Scenic Road to Rainbow Point.
  • Hack: Drive to the very end first, then hit all the viewpoints on your way back. This way, all the overlooks will be on your right side, making it much easier to pull over!

Winter in Bryce (The Hidden Season)

If you visit between December and March, the park can transform into a winter wonderland.

• Snowshoeing: You can rent snowshoes at Ruby’s Inn. The contrast of white snow against orange rock is a photographer’s dream.
• Wildlife: Look for Pronghorn Antelope near the park entrance and Mule Deer in the forested areas. They are much easier to spot against the white snow!

FAQ About Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park

When is the best time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park?
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal for a first visit. You’ll get comfortable daytime temperatures, fewer crowds than summer, and better hiking conditions. Summer is popular but busy, while winter is quieter and stunning if you’re prepared for snow.

How many days do you need at Bryce Canyon National Park?
One full day is enough to see the highlights, but two days lets you slow down, hike deeper into the amphitheater, catch both sunrise and sunset, and enjoy stargazing without feeling rushed.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park worth visiting if you don’t hike?
Yes. Bryce is one of the most accessible national parks for non-hikers. Many viewpoints are right off the road or shuttle stops, and the Rim Trail between Sunrise and Sunset Point is paved and mostly flat.

Do you need a shuttle at Bryce Canyon National Park?
You don’t need it, but using the free shuttle during peak season makes the visit much easier. Parking at viewpoints fills quickly, and the shuttle runs frequently to all major stops.

What is the elevation at Bryce Canyon National Park?
Bryce Canyon sits at a high elevation, with most rim viewpoints around 8,000-9,000 feet above sea level, while the bottom of the canyon drops closer to 6,600 feet. The elevation difference can make hikes feel harder than expected, so take breaks, drink plenty of water, and don’t push too hard on your first day.

Can you visit Bryce Canyon in one day from Zion National Park?
Yes, but it will be a long day. Bryce Canyon is about 1.5–2 hours from Zion. If possible, staying overnight near Bryce allows you to experience sunrise, sunset, and stargazing, which are some of the park’s best moments.

Is Bryce Canyon cold in the summer?
It can be. While daytime highs are usually pleasant, mornings and evenings are often chilly, even in July and August. Layers are essential year-round.

Are pets allowed in Bryce Canyon National Park?
Pets are allowed only in limited areas. Leashed pets can walk on paved roads, campgrounds, and the paved section of the Rim Trail between Sunrise and Sunset Point. Pets are not allowed on most hiking trails or inside the amphitheater.

Is Bryce Canyon good for families and kids?
Yes. Short hikes like Queen’s Garden, easy viewpoint access, ranger programs, and wide-open spaces make Bryce a great national park for families, especially with kids who enjoy exploring and spotting unique rock formations.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon completely exceeded my expectations. From the hoodoos to the quiet mornings on the Rim Trail, it’s a park that feels both dramatic and peaceful at the same time. If this is your first visit, take advantage of the shuttle, hike into the canyon at least once, and don’t skip sunrise or stargazing if the weather cooperates. It’s one of those places that sticks with you, and I already know I’ll be back.