Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

A Labyrinth of Hoodoos and Timeless Landscapes

A view of the historic Hermitage of San Bernabé near Burgos, Spain, nestled into a green, rocky hillside. In the foreground, a small, ancient stone arch bridge crosses a stream. People are visible on the bridge and on the path leading to the hermitage, which is surrounded by lush trees and a smaller stone building.

Overview

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah Tours

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is a geological wonder renowned for its breathtaking labyrinth of rock formations known as "hoodoos." These whimsical, spire-shaped rocks, sculpted by erosion, create a surreal landscape of vibrant oranges, reds, and whites that changes with the light throughout the day. The park is a natural amphitheater of incredible scale and beauty, offering an unparalleled experience in the American West.

Beyond its famous hoodoos, Bryce Canyon is a place of serene beauty, with vast forests, clear blue skies, and some of the darkest night skies in North America, making it a certified International Dark Sky Park. A visit to Bryce is a journey into an ancient, quiet landscape that captivates the imagination and offers a refreshing sense of wonder and awe. It's a place for hiking, photography, and quiet contemplation amidst a truly unique and timeless environment.

Top Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail

Embark on the iconic Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail, a combination hike that takes you down into the heart of the amphitheater. This moderate loop allows you to walk among the towering hoodoos, pass through narrow canyons like Wall Street, and see famous formations like Thor's Hammer and Queen Victoria.

Tip: Hike the trail in a clockwise direction to descend the switchbacks of the Navajo Loop and ascend the gentler Queen's Garden trail. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Drive the Scenic Drive

Take the 18-mile (29 km) scenic drive to the park's main viewpoints. The road follows the rim and offers stunning vistas. Popular stops include Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, and Paria View, each providing a different and magnificent perspective of the main amphitheater and the surrounding landscape.

Tip: The best light for photography is at sunrise from Bryce Point and at sunset from Inspiration Point. Plan your drive accordingly to capture the magical light and shadows.

Visit the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center

Start your day at the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center to get a park map, check on current trail conditions, and speak with a park ranger. The center also has exhibits about the park's geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history, offering valuable context for your visit.

Tip: Watch the short film "A Canyon of Light" at the visitor center for an excellent introduction to the park's natural and historical significance.

Stargaze at Night (International Dark Sky Park)

Bryce Canyon has some of the darkest skies in North America, making it an incredible place for stargazing. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way, thousands of stars, and constellations that are not visible in urban areas. The park offers ranger-led astronomy programs and full-moon hikes.

Tip: Check the park's event calendar for scheduled ranger programs. Even on your own, simply driving to a viewpoint and looking up offers a spectacular view of the night sky.

Walk Along the Rim Trail

For a less strenuous but equally rewarding experience, walk a portion of the Rim Trail. This trail runs along the canyon's edge, connecting all the main viewpoints. The section between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is a flat, paved walk with fantastic views.

Tip: This section is a great option for those with mobility issues or families with strollers, as it provides stunning views without a steep descent.

Experience Mossy Cave Trail (outside the park)

The Mossy Cave Trail, located just outside the main park entrance, is a short, easy walk that follows a stream. It leads to a grotto where moss and ferns thrive in the shade, and to a small waterfall (seasonal). It offers a different, more forested landscape than the main canyon.

Tip: This trail is less crowded and a great alternative for a quick, scenic walk without having to navigate the main park traffic.

Overview