Bryce Canyon National Park

About

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southern Utah of the United states on the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. Established as a national park in 1928, it covers approximately 56 square miles (145 sq km) and protects one of the most unique geological landscapes in the world.

Despite its name, Bryce Canyon is not actually a canyon but a series of natural amphitheaters carved into the plateau’s edge. The park lies near other renowned public lands including Zion National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Together, these protected areas showcase some of the most spectacular landscapes of the American Southwest.

The park is best known for its extraordinary hoodoos, tall and slender rock spires created by thousands of yearsof erosion. Bryce Canyon contains the largest concentration of hoodoos found anywhere on Earth. Visitors are drawn to iconic viewpoints such as Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point, where thousands of colorful rock formations fill vast natural amphitheaters.

The park’s vibrant palette of red, orange, pink, and white sandstone changes dramatically throughout the day as sunlight shifts across the landscape. Scenic drives, hiking trails, horseback riding, and winter snowshoeing allow visitors to experience the park’s remarkable beauty in every season.

Geographically, Bryce Canyon National Park sits at elevations ranging from approximately 8,000 to over 9,100 feet (2,438 to 2,778 m). The high elevation contributes to a cooler climate than many desert parks in the region and plays a key role in the formation of its famous hoodoos.

Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing fracture the limestone, sandstone, and mudstone formations of the Claron Formation, gradually sculpting the landscape into intricate pinnacles, arches, fins, and windows. The park’s elevated position also provides sweeping views across the Grand Staircase, a vast sequence of geological layers extending toward the Grand Canyon.

Wildlife flourishes in the park’s forests, meadows, and rocky landscapes. Mammals commonly observed include mule deer, pronghorn, coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, and Utah prairie dogs. The endangered Utah prairie dog is one of the park’s most significant conservation species.

Birdlife is abundant, with more than 170 species recorded, including peregrine falcons, golden eagles, ravens, mountain bluebirds, and Clark’s nutcrackers. Ponderosa pine forests, bristlecone pines, Douglas-firs, and aspen groves provide habitat for numerous animals and add diversity to the park’s ecosystems. Some of the park’s bristlecone pines are among the oldest living organisms on Earth, with ages exceeding 1,600 years.

Bryce Canyon National Park plays a vital role in preserving a geological landscape unlike any other on the planet. The park protects fragile hoodoo formations, high-elevation forests, and important wildlife habitats while providing opportunities for scientific research and recreation.

Its geological significance is often compared to iconic parks such as Grand Canyon National Park and Badlands National Park, yet Bryce Canyon’s concentration of hoodoos remains unmatched. Through its colorful amphitheaters, ancient forests, remarkable wildlife, and stunning night skies, Bryce Canyon National Park stands as one of America’s most extraordinary natural wonders and one of the most visually distinctive landscapes in the world.

Photos

Things to See

Featured Wildlife Landscape Rock Formations

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

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 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

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.

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.

Mossy Cave Trail

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

Rim Trail

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

Bristlecone Trail

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

Queens Garden Trail

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

Navajo Loop

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

Riggs Spring Loop Trail

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

Under-the-Rim Trail

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

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.

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.

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.

Park Protection

Bryce Canyon National Park was created to protect a spectacular landscape of colorful rock spires known as hoodoos, formed through millions of years of erosion along the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah. The park provides habitat for wildlife such as mule deer, mountain lions, Utah prairie dogs, and numerous bird species. The threatened Utah prairie dog is one of the park’s most important protected species and is found only in southwestern Utah.

Bryce Canyon contains the largest concentration of hoodoos found anywhere on Earth, making it one of the most distinctive geological landscapes in the world. Elevations ranging from desert-like conditions to high-elevation forests support diverse plant communities, including ancient bristlecone pines that have survived for more than a thousand years. Together, Bryce Canyon National Park protects a globally unique geological wonder, diverse high-desert ecosystems, and wildlife adapted to the colorful plateaus and forests of southern Utah.

FAQ’s

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

These unique rock pillars, created by erosion over thousands 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is primarily visited for its spectacular hoodoos, colorful amphitheaters, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Located in southern Utah, the park is famous for having the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires formed by erosion.

Visitors come to hike among these unique formations, enjoy scenic overlooks, photograph vibrant red, orange, and pink rock landscapes, stargaze under exceptionally dark skies, and experience one of the most visually distinctive national parks in the United States.

Bryce Canyon National Park supports approximately 60 mammal species and more than 15 reptile species. The park’s high-elevation forests, meadows, shrublands, and canyon environments provide habitat for a diverse variety of wildlife.

Some of the most notable mammals found in Bryce Canyon National Park include:

Mule Deer
Pronghorn
Elk
Mountain Lion
Bobcat
Coyote
Red Fox
Gray Fox
American Badger
Long-tailed Weasel
Short-tailed Weasel
Striped Skunk
Porcupine
Black-tailed Jackrabbit
Desert Cottontail
Snowshoe Hare
Rock Squirrel
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel
Uinta Chipmunk
Cliff Chipmunk
Deer Mouse
Canyon Mouse
Pocket Mouse
Kangaroo Rat
Pocket Gopher
Woodrat
Meadow Vole
Montane Vole
Harvest Mouse
Muskrat
Beaver
Big Brown Bat
Hoary Bat
Pallid Bat
Townsend’s Big-eared Bat
Mexican Free-tailed Bat
Silver-haired Bat
Little Brown Bat
Long-legged Myotis
Fringed Myotis
Yuma Myotis
Western Red Bat
Desert Shrew
Vagrant Shrew
Ground Squirrel Species
Pack Rat Species
Rodent Species
Small Carnivore Species
Various Bat Species
Various Small Mammals

Bryce Canyon National Park is home to more than 175 bird species. The park’s forests, cliffs, meadows, and canyon habitats attract a wide variety of resident and migratory birds.

Some of the most popular birds seen in Bryce Canyon National Park include:

Golden Eagle
Bald Eagle
Peregrine Falcon
Prairie Falcon
Red-tailed Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Northern Goshawk
American Kestrel
Turkey Vulture
Common Raven
Clark’s Nutcracker
Pinyon Jay
Steller’s Jay
Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay
Black-billed Magpie
Mountain Bluebird
Western Bluebird
Canyon Wren
Rock Wren
House Wren
Bewick’s Wren
Mountain Chickadee
Juniper Titmouse
Bushtit
White-breasted Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Pygmy Nuthatch
Black-throated Sparrow
Brewer’s Sparrow
Chipping Sparrow
White-crowned Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Green-tailed Towhee
Western Meadowlark
Horned Lark
Say’s Phoebe
Ash-throated Flycatcher
Western Kingbird
Violet-green Swallow
Cliff Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-throated Swift
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Rufous Hummingbird
Northern Flicker
Hairy Woodpecker
Lewis’s Woodpecker
Western Tanager

Yes, Bryce Canyon National Park is absolutely worth visiting and is often considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States.

The park’s unique hoodoo formations create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. Visitors can enjoy spectacular viewpoints, excellent hiking, photography opportunities, dark-sky experiences, and relatively easy access to many of the park’s highlights. Many travelers rank Bryce Canyon alongside Zion National Park, Arches National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park as one of the premier parks in the American Southwest.

The best time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park is:

May through October

During these months:

Most trails and facilities are fully accessible.
Temperatures are pleasant.
Wildflowers bloom during summer.
Scenic conditions are excellent.

Winter also offers a unique experience, with snow-covered hoodoos creating some of the park’s most spectacular scenery.

Most visitors should plan for 1 to 2 days.

Half day: Major overlooks and viewpoints.
1 day: Scenic drive and popular hiking trails.
2 days: More extensive hiking and photography.
3+ days: Backcountry trails, stargazing, and nearby attractions.

Bryce Canyon is often combined with other southern Utah national parks.

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southern Utah near Bryce Canyon City.

Most visitors:

Fly into Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or St. George.
Drive to the park via Utah’s scenic highways.
Access the park through the main entrance near Bryce Canyon City.

Many visitors include Bryce Canyon as part of a multi-park Utah road trip.

Several organizations help protect Bryce Canyon National Park:

National Park Service – manages Bryce Canyon National Park.
Bryce Canyon Natural History Association – supports educational, scientific, and interpretive programs.
National Park Foundation – supports projects throughout the National Park System.
Grand Canyon Trust – supports conservation efforts across the Colorado Plateau.
Volunteers, researchers, and local communities who help preserve the park’s natural and cultural resources.

Sources

Britannica, Bryce Canyon National Park, https://www.britannica.com/place/Bryce-Canyon-National-Park, retrieved June 2020.
National Geographic, Everything you need to know about Bryce Canyon, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/national-parks/bryce-canyon-national-park/, retrieved June 2020.
National Park Foundation, Pillars of Stone, https://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/bryce-canyon-national-park, retrieved June 2020.
National Park Service, Bryce Canyon, https://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm, retrieved June 2020.
Utah.com, Bryce Canyon National Park, https://utah.com/bryce-canyon-national-park, retrieved June 2020.
Visit Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park, https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/bryce-canyon/, retrieved June 2020.