Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a United States National Park located in southwestern Utah. The park's major feature is Bryce Canyon, which despite its name, is not actually a canyon but rather a collection of natural amphitheaters and hoodoos that are formed by erosion along the eastern side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The orange, pink, and red colors of the rocks provide spectacular views for park visitors.

The area now known as Bryce Canyon National Park was first explored by Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s. In 1872, Ebenezer Bryce became one of the first settlers in what is now called Bryce Canyon and established a homestead at the foot of the canyon walls. He named the area after himself and it quickly became a popular spot for tourists and adventurers. In 1928, Bryce Canyon became a national park and today, visitors to the park can explore the area's beautiful landscape by taking guided tours or hiking the numerous trails that wind through the canyon walls.

Back-country hiking trails wind across the forested plateau and down through the Bryce Canyon hoodoos. There are numerous loop trails to travel, along with various trail that follow the rims of the amphitheaters. With elevations ranging between 6.500' and 9,000' it is important to consider your physical abilities primarily for the uphill portions of these trails. Oxygen is more scarce, and trails are fairly steep at times so bring snacks, water, good hiking shoes, and your camera. Most trails start high and descend, so a common mistake is to not realize how difficult the ascent may be until you've descended many hundreds of feet. Trails for walking or hiking are normally well maintained, but remember that erosion is always occurring. Stay on trails and avoid damaging sensitive foliage.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great destination for hikers, campers, and photographers. The park offers many activities to do including camping, backpacking, horseback riding, fishing, photography, bird watching, and star gazing. Whether you want to explore the hoodoos or take in the stunning views of the canyon walls from one of the numerous viewpoints, there is something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon is located just off National Scenic Byway 12 which is rated as one of the top scenic byways in America. Nearby Red Canyon in the Dixie National Forest, and Kodachrome Basin State Park are two destinations that may be easily included in a travel itinerary.

When planning a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park, be sure to check the park’s website or visit a local visitor center for information on current conditions and tips on how to best experience the park. The weather in the area can vary greatly so it's important to plan accordingly and dress appropriately.

Bryce Canyon can be a busy place on most weekends between April and mid-October. Weekdays may also be busy during this time frame. Many people have learned that starting very early is a good way to beat the crowds. The other best choice is to visit the park later in the afternoon when many visitors may be leaving the park. For the best experience on busy days we suggest you obtain a parking spot early and select lesser-known trails.

Horseback Riding in Bryce Canyon is available during warmer months (April – October, weather permitting). Horseback Riding in Bryce Canyon is available during warmer months (April – October, weather permitting). ATV tours, helicopter tours and other guided experiences are also available. Local outfitters and guides provide hiking, horseback riding, UTV or ATV experiences, bike rentals (pedal/electric), and more. View listings for these outfitters below.

Northwest of Bryce Canyon along Scenic Byway 12, and two miles east of the junction with Highway 89, you'll find Red Canyon. This area looks much like Bryce Canyon and is a part of the Dixie National Forest.

Just 20 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park is Kodachrome Basin State Park. This Utah state park offers 67 sedimentary chimney rocks, ranging from up to 170 feet in height. Researchers have determined that this area was once a geyser basin similar to what is found in Yellowstone National Park. Over time, when the geysers ceased to function, the remaining holes created by the geyser were filled with sediment. This debris hardened into rock and was more dense than the surrounding strata which eventually eroded away, leaving these hardened sediment towers standing as tall remnants of the geyser era.