Discover the world’s largest collection of hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Here is a list of the most popular viewpoints and tips for visiting the park.
Bryce Canyon’s scenic drive is 38 miles round-trip and will take about four hours, including stops. There are 13 viewpoints to enjoy along the route. If you plan to drive instead of taking the shuttle, arrive early in the day before the park is congested and parking areas are at full capacity. Taking the free shuttle, departing every 15 minutes, helps alleviate delays and offers stops at the most popular viewpoints. For those interested in capturing the beauty of Bryce Canyon, it’s essential to know how to take canyon photos effectively. Lighting conditions can dramatically change throughout the day, so early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best opportunities for vibrant shots. Whether driving or taking the shuttle, be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning hoodoos and sweeping vistas from multiple angles.
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Popular viewpoints in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Point Amphitheatre – the world’s largest hoodoo collection
This vast cavern is one of the most popular viewpoints. The immense display of limestone hoodoos is probably the most photographed spot in the entire park. This spot offers incredible photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset. Here, you will find some of the larger, sturdier hoodoos that look as if cement was poured on top of them. This coating protects the weaker limestone beneath from eroding and has been naturally produced by dolomite, a magnesium-rich limestone.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Sunset Point
Thor’s Hammer can be spotted standing alone on the northern edge of this magnificent viewpoint.
Sunrise Point
This vista point allows access to the Queen’s Trail and has views of the tilted rock formation ‘Sinking Ship’ on the mesa to the northeast.
Inspiration Point
A three-level viewing area of the spectacular hoodoos is offered here, but remember there is no trail access at this point. Do not wander off the designated pathways and remain behind the railings. The sheer drops are extremely slippery and very dangerous.
Rainbow and Yovimpa Points
The stop at Mile 18 provides some of the longest continuous views available in North America. On a clear day, you can see the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This viewpoint provides access to the Bristlecone Loop trail. (see below)
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world. The stop at Mile 18 provides some of the longest continuous views available in North America. This viewpoint provides access to the Bristlecone Loop trail.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world. The stop at Mile 18 provides some of the longest continuous views available in North America. This viewpoint provides access to the Bristlecone Loop trail.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover The largest hoodoo collection in the world. The stop at Mile 18 provides some of the longest continuous views available in North America. This viewpoint provides access to the Bristlecone Loop trail. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Natural Bridge
The natural arch is just past Mile 12. The arch was formed through erosion.
Natural Bridge is an arch. Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the largest hoodoo collection in the world. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Thor’s Hammer is accessed by taking the Navajo Loop Trail.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the largest hoodoo collection in the world. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Wall Street is the only slot canyon found in the park and can be seen on the Navajo Loop Trail.
Queen Victoria is a rock formation found on the Queen’s Garden Trail.
Wildlife viewing in Bryce Canyon National Park
Do not feed the animals or get close to them. Rodents can bite and pass deadly viruses like the Bubonic Plague and Hantavirus onto humans. Keep a lookout for Utah Prairie Dogs, a rare species only found in the southwest region of Utah. In the summer, watch for Elk and Mule Deer grazing in the forested areas.
Travel to Bryce Canyon to discover the largest hoodoo collection in the world. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Plan your visit to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Check the current weather conditions. Some areas of the park close in winter. Be sure to carry plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear with good traction and support if you plan to hike.
Download a planning map of Bryce Canyon National Park.
Discover more about Bryce Canyon
- Trip planning tools for Bryce Canyon.
- Explore scenic Mossy Cave hiking trail in Bryce Canyon.
- Discover more hiking trails at Bryce Canyon.
- Learn interesting facts about Bryce Canyon.
- Discover the world’s largest gypsum dunes.
About the Author:
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, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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