This handy Bryce Canyon National Park trip planning guide provides a list of important things to know before visiting the park, along with interesting facts and history about the popular tourist destination located in the state of Utah.
Bryce Canyon National Park Trip Planning Guide
How many days do you need to visit Bryce National Park?
There are several factors to consider when planning how many days you need to visit Bryce Canyon National Park.
Bryce Canyon can be done easily in one day or less, if your timing is right.
Start early in the day and you will be able to take in several of the key viewpoints and even fit in a short hike or two before exploring more of the many wonders of Utah or Arizona.
Discover the best viewpoints to see the world’s largest hoodoo collection and check out five easy to moderate hikes that might be best for you.
Latest COVID guidelines and alerts for Bryce Canyon
At the present time the risk for transmission of COVID 19 is rated as low in this Utah National Park.
COVID restrictions constantly change due to various variants being introduced to the world on a regular basis. Check for the latest updates.
Wearing a mask is optional at the moment.
Interesting Facts about Bryce Canyon National Park
- Bryce Canyon has the largest hoodoo collection in the world.
- After millions of years of natural erosion, Hoodoos were formed into a variety of chiseled shapes.
- Hoodoos display a variety of colours due to different mineral deposits.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the largest hoodoo collection in the world. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
- The Hoodoos are made mostly of limestone, along with other rock types. When formed together, they are known as the Claron Formation.
- Hoodoos can stand as tall as 150 feet or as small as 5 feet.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world.
- You can see 7,500 stars on a clear moonless night, more than other rural areas.
- On a clear day standing on the south rim of Bryce Canyon, you can see 100 miles to the Grand Canyon.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the largest hoodoo collection in the world. On a clear day from the south rim of Bryce Canyon, you can see 100 miles to the Grand Canyon. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Things to know before visiting Bryce Canyon National Park
- The annual Pass for access to all US National Parks is $80 and valid for one full year.
- The annual Pass for Bryce Canyon only – $35
- Rock climbing is illegal and dangerous.
- A free shuttle service runs from spring to fall, departing every 15 minutes.
- Ranger talks and seasonal stargazing are available.
- Full moon hikes are available though a lottery system.
- There are several day hikes available in the park. Read our list about 5 easy to moderate hikes in Bryce Canyon.
- Overnight hiking and camping in the backcountry requires a permit.
- Park elevations reach over 9,115 feet (over 2774 meters) Oxygen levels can be reduced to about 70% of normal.
- Daily temperatures can vary up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit between daytime and night.
- There is a year-round danger of lightning. Summer thunderstorms in July and August are the most dangerous. If a storm is brewing, seek shelter immediately in your vehicle or a building.
- Pets must be kept on a leash.
- Here is a complete list of maps to download before heading to the park.
Weather Conditions in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Plan before you go. Always check the current weather conditions in Bryce Canyon. In winter some areas of the park are closed.
Be sure to carry plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear with good traction and support if you plan to hike.
Wildlife in Bryce Canyon National Park
Many birds and animals can be found in the park. Here are a few to watch for: Mule Deer, Rocky Mountain Elk, Pronghorn (the world’s second fastest animal so you are not likely to see it), Peregrine Falcons, hummingbirds. Here is a checklist provided by the national park.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world.
History of Bryce Canyon
- The following American Indian groups have ties to the Bryce Canyon Area: Southern Paiute, Ute, Goshute, Navajo and Hopi.
- In the 1880s, Mormon settlers came from the north.
- In 1887, Ebenezer Bryce came with his family, built roads, then left for Arizona in 1880.
Discover more:
- Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the world’s largest hoodoo collection
- Trip planning tools for Bryce Canyon.
- Explore scenic Mossy Cave hiking trail in Bryce Canyon.
- Discover more hiking trails at Bryce Canyon.
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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National PD Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW & NATJA.
Have you been here? Want to go or have other tips or comments. We'd love to hear from you.