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About

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in the corner of southwestern Utah. The park covers an area of 56 square miles (sq km 145). It is a sister protected area to neighboring Zion National Park.  Together, they create some of the most pristine and stunning wilderness found across the country.

The remoteness of the park makes it visited less than its neighbor and other national parks in the northwestern region of the United States.  However, the incredible collection of hoodoos and other picturesque rock formations makes the visit worthwhile.

The varying colors of red, orange, and white intertwined across the hoodoos, rock formations, and canyon walls create awe-inspiring landscapes.  The Bryce Canyon ridge ranges in height from 8,000 to 9,000 feet (2,400 to 2,700 m).  It is technically not a canyon.

The hoodoos, as some of the pinnacle attractions, reach heights up to 200 feet (60 m).  The hoodoos drape across many of the amphitheaters’ walls serving as nature’s own spectators. 

The Paria River meandered throughout the Paunsaugunt Plateau over the years creating these amphitheaters that blanket the park.  Many of the amphitheaters are decorated with colorful hoodoos.  Over 400 endemic plants are found within the park boundaries with three different ecological zones.

Bryce Canyon is home to a nice variety of wildlife as well as spectacular landscapes.  Some of the popular species include badger, black bear, bobcat, elk, fox, mule deer, porcupine, prairie dog, and pronghorn.  The wildlife is topped off with around 170 species of birds.

There is an 18-mile (29 km) scenic drive across the park.  The drive is amazing on its own, however, it delivers people to Rainbow Point.  Rainbow Point, at 9,105 feet (2,775 m) is the highest part of the park with panoramic views to visitors who make the journey. 

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Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Things to See

Bryce Canyon is home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world.  These hoodoos blanket the natural amphitheaters creating some of the most picturesque landscapes.  Without question, the colorful hoodoos are one of the leading highlights of the park.

Rainbow Point

Rainbow Point is one of the leading highlights of the national park.  This point reaches a height of 9,105 feet (2,775 m) providing incredible panoramic views of the region.  The point is accessible as the endpoint of the park’s 18-mile scenic drive.

From this viewpoint, you can see the Aquarius Plateau, Bryce Amphitheater, Henry Mountains, Vermillion Cliffs, and the White Cliffs.

Night Sky Watching

Bryce Canyon features a 7.4 magnitude night sky.  This means that it is one of the darkest places in North America creating an incredible view of stars and the night sky. 

Henry Mountains

The Henry Mountains extend about 30 miles (50 km) north-south across the park.  Mount Ellen is the tallest peak with a summit at 11,522 feet (3,512 m).  These have the distinction of being the last mountain range added into the map of the 48 contiguous United States.

White Cliffs

The Navajo Sandstone cliffs are rugged geological rock formations that add a unique landscape to the park that differs from the traditional orange colored sedimentary rocks.

Bryce Canyon National Park, celebrated for its extraordinary geological formations and hoodoos, is equally remarkable for its diverse array of wildlife. Amidst the park’s high-altitude forests and meadows, a variety of animals have adapted to the unique environment, offering visitors a chance to witness the interplay of life in this stunning landscape.

From small, industrious insects to large, majestic mammals, each species contributes to the ecological richness of Bryce Canyon, making it a fascinating place for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Mule Deer – Frequently seen at dawn and dusk, Mule Deer are graceful inhabitants of the park, easily recognized by their large ears and black-tipped tails.

Utah Prairie Dog – Endemic to the area, these social rodents are vital for the ecosystem, often spotted in meadows within their extensive burrow systems.

Mountain Lion – Although elusive and rarely seen, Mountain Lions roam the park’s backcountry, apex predators that maintain the balance of Bryce Canyon’s ecosystem.

Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel – Often mistaken for chipmunks, these ground squirrels are a common sight, scurrying across the park in search of food.

Steller’s Jay – With its striking blue plumage and crest, the Steller’s Jay is a noisy and vibrant presence among the park’s coniferous forests.

American Kestrel – The smallest falcon in North America, the American Kestrel can be seen hovering or perched, searching for insects and small mammals.

Peregrine Falcon – Renowned for its speed, the Peregrine Falcon nests on the park’s cliff faces, diving at incredible speeds to catch its prey.

Rock Squirrel – These large squirrels are common around the park’s rim, often seen sunning themselves on rocks or foraging for seeds and nuts.

Clark’s Nutcracker – A key species for the propagation of whitebark pine, Clark’s Nutcracker is often seen flying across the park, its sharp bill adept at extracting seeds.

Great Basin Rattlesnake – This venomous snake, while less commonly seen, inhabits the park’s lower elevations, playing a crucial role in controlling rodent populations.

The wildlife of Bryce Canyon National Park adds an additional layer of wonder to the park’s already breathtaking scenery, creating a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem where each species, from the fluttering Steller’s Jay to the stealthy Mountain Lion, plays a role in the story of this extraordinary landscape

Thor's Hammer

Thor's Hammer

One of the most iconic and recognizable rock formations in Bryce Canyon, Thor’s Hammer stands as a solitary hoodoo towering above the canyon floor.

This stunning geological feature resembles the mythical hammer of the Norse god Thor, with its narrow shaft and large, hammer-like head.

Located near Sunset Point, Thor’s Hammer is a favorite subject for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset when the angled light casts dramatic shadows across its surface.

Visitors can admire its intricate details up close by hiking the Navajo Loop Trail, which offers breathtaking views of this remarkable hoodoo along with other scenic wonders of Bryce Canyon.

The Amphitheater

The Amphitheater

The Amphitheater is the heart of Bryce Canyon’s awe-inspiring landscape, characterized by a vast collection of towering hoodoos, spires, and fins sculpted by millions of years of erosion.

Stretching across the main Bryce Amphitheater area, this natural amphitheater offers visitors panoramic views of the park’s most dramatic formations, including Silent City, Wall of Windows, and the Chessmen.

Hiking trails like the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop provide opportunities to explore this mesmerizing landscape up close, allowing visitors to marvel at the intricate details of the hoodoos and witness the ever-changing interplay of light and shadow.

Sunset Point

Sunset Point

As one of the most popular viewpoints in Bryce Canyon, Sunset Point offers visitors an unparalleled vantage point to witness the park’s breathtaking sunsets.

Perched atop the rim of the canyon, Sunset Point provides panoramic views of the expansive Bryce Amphitheater, showcasing a stunning array of hoodoos, spires, and rock formations bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Visitors can gather at this iconic overlook to witness the vibrant colors of the sky as they reflect off the intricate geological features below, creating a mesmerizing display of natural beauty.

With its accessibility and awe-inspiring vistas, Sunset Point remains a must-visit destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking the magic of Bryce Canyon’s sunset.

Things To Do

Engaging Bryce Canyon

HIking

Embark on a journey through Bryce Canyon’s otherworldly landscape by exploring its extensive network of hiking trails.

From leisurely walks along the rim to challenging descents into the amphitheaters, there’s a trail for every skill level and interest.

Marvel at the park’s iconic hoodoos, towering spires, and natural arches as you traverse trails like the Navajo Loop, Queens Garden, and Fairyland Loop.

Scenic Drive

Experience the breathtaking vistas of Bryce Canyon from the comfort of your car by taking a scenic drive along the park’s main road.

Stop at various viewpoints such as Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Bryce Point to admire panoramic views of the amphitheaters and the surrounding landscape.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the hoodoos glowing in vibrant hues during sunrise and sunset.

HIking

Embark on a journey through Bryce Canyon’s otherworldly landscape by exploring its extensive network of hiking trails.

From leisurely walks along the rim to challenging descents into the amphitheaters, there’s a trail for every skill level and interest.

Marvel at the park’s iconic hoodoos, towering spires, and natural arches as you traverse trails like the Navajo Loop, Queens Garden, and Fairyland Loop.

Scenic Drive

Experience the breathtaking vistas of Bryce Canyon from the comfort of your car by taking a scenic drive along the park’s main road.

Stop at various viewpoints such as Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Bryce Point to admire panoramic views of the amphitheaters and the surrounding landscape.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the hoodoos glowing in vibrant hues during sunrise and sunset.

Bryce Canyon National Park Trails

Bryce Canyon is a tremendous place to enjoy the wildlife and wilderness with an abundance of hiking trails to enjoy.  There are 13 different viewpoints that peer out over the amphitheaters and hoodoos landscape.

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Mossy Cave Trail

This trail is a shorter trek taking about one hour to complete.

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Rim Trail

A trail that takes you along the rim of the canyon.  It takes most people 5 to 6 hours to trek.

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Bristlecone Trail

This is a loop trail that takes about 1 hour to make the excursion.  This trail is connected to Rainbow Point.

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Queens Garden Trail

This is a moderate hike that lets you experience Sunrise Point.  Most people complete this between 1 to 2 hours.

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Navajo Loop

This trail is a moderate hike that allows travelers to visit Sunset Point.

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Riggs Spring Loop Trail

This overnight trail covers a distance of 9-miles (14 km) and it requires a backcountry permit.

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Under-the-Rim Trail

This is a longer overnight trail covering a distance of 23-miles (37 km).  It also requires a backcountry permit.

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Navajo Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 550 feet (168 meters)

Description: This popular trail descends from Sunset Point through the iconic Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon surrounded by towering hoodoos. Hikers will experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Bryce Canyon’s amphitheater up close, making it a memorable hike that showcases the park’s unique geological formations.

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Queens Garden Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 320 feet (98 meters)

Description: Starting from Sunrise Point, this trail offers a gentler descent into the amphitheater, leading to the Queen Victoria rock formation. It’s the least difficult path into the canyon and provides hikers with spectacular views of Bryce’s famous hoodoos and natural garden-like scenery.

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Rim Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 11 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, depending on the section

Description: Stretching between Fairyland Point and Bryce Point, the Rim Trail offers panoramic views of the entire amphitheater. Hikers can choose to walk the entire length or select shorter segments for a customizable experience, with each section offering unique vistas of the hoodoos and landscape below.

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Fairyland Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,700 feet (518 meters)

Description: This less crowded trail starts at Fairyland Point and takes hikers on a spectacular journey through diverse landscapes, including hoodoos, towers, and arches. The trail offers stunning views of the Fairyland Canyon and Boat Mesa, providing a serene and immersive experience in Bryce Canyon’s natural beauty.

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Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,500 feet (457 meters)

Description: Accessible from Bryce Point, this trail takes hikers into the heart of the park, passing through the Peek-A-Boo Canyon with its extraordinary rock formations and vibrant colors. The trail is known for its series of steep switchbacks and offers close-up views of the park’s stunning geological features, including the Wall of Windows.

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Navajo Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 550 feet (168 meters)

Description: This popular trail descends from Sunset Point through the iconic Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon surrounded by towering hoodoos. Hikers will experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Bryce Canyon’s amphitheater up close, making it a memorable hike that showcases the park’s unique geological formations.

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Queens Garden Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 320 feet (98 meters)

Description: Starting from Sunrise Point, this trail offers a gentler descent into the amphitheater, leading to the Queen Victoria rock formation. It’s the least difficult path into the canyon and provides hikers with spectacular views of Bryce’s famous hoodoos and natural garden-like scenery.

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Rim Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 11 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, depending on the section

Description: Stretching between Fairyland Point and Bryce Point, the Rim Trail offers panoramic views of the entire amphitheater. Hikers can choose to walk the entire length or select shorter segments for a customizable experience, with each section offering unique vistas of the hoodoos and landscape below.

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Fairyland Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,700 feet (518 meters)

Description: This less crowded trail starts at Fairyland Point and takes hikers on a spectacular journey through diverse landscapes, including hoodoos, towers, and arches. The trail offers stunning views of the Fairyland Canyon and Boat Mesa, providing a serene and immersive experience in Bryce Canyon’s natural beauty.

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Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,500 feet (457 meters)

Description: Accessible from Bryce Point, this trail takes hikers into the heart of the park, passing through the Peek-A-Boo Canyon with its extraordinary rock formations and vibrant colors. The trail is known for its series of steep switchbacks and offers close-up views of the park’s stunning geological features, including the Wall of Windows.

FAQ’s

What is Bryce Canyon known for?

Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its spectacular geological formations known as hoodoos.

These unique rock pillars, created by erosion over millions of years, create a mesmerizing landscape of intricate shapes, colors, and textures.

Visitors flock to Bryce Canyon to witness the otherworldly beauty of these hoodoos, which are particularly striking during sunrise and sunset when the angled sunlight casts dramatic shadows across the canyon floor.

The park’s expansive amphitheaters, including the main Bryce Amphitheater, showcase an array of hoodoos, spires, and fins, providing visitors with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Additionally, Bryce Canyon’s clear night skies offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the United States, with minimal light pollution allowing for unparalleled views of the Milky Way and countless stars.

What is Bryce Canyon known for?

Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its spectacular geological formations known as hoodoos.

These unique rock pillars, created by erosion over millions of years, create a mesmerizing landscape of intricate shapes, colors, and textures.

Visitors flock to Bryce Canyon to witness the otherworldly beauty of these hoodoos, which are particularly striking during sunrise and sunset when the angled sunlight casts dramatic shadows across the canyon floor.

The park’s expansive amphitheaters, including the main Bryce Amphitheater, showcase an array of hoodoos, spires, and fins, providing visitors with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Additionally, Bryce Canyon’s clear night skies offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the United States, with minimal light pollution allowing for unparalleled views of the Milky Way and countless stars.

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