National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo / Peter Densmore
Bryce Canyon National Park
Hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) exist on every continent, but here is the largest concentration found anywhere on Earth. Situated along a high plateau at the top of the Grand Staircase, the park's high elevations include numerous life communities, fantastic dark skies, and geological wonders that defy description.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
2.9 mi · 625 ft gain · loop
The park's most popular trail past Thor's Hammer, Wall Street switchbacks, and towering hoodoos.
Starts at: Sunrise Point or Sunset Point
1.3 mi · 515 ft gain · loop
Short but steep loop featuring iconic switchbacks through Wall Street. Wall Street side closed seasonally.
Starts at: Sunset Point
5.5 mi · 1,560 ft gain · loop
Steep, spectacular hike through the heart of the park past the Wall of Windows. Must be hiked clockwise.
Starts at: Bryce Point
8 mi · 1,900 ft gain · loop
See the Chinese Wall, Tower Bridge, and tall hoodoos on a picturesque, less crowded trail through Fairyland and Campbell Canyons.
Starts at: Fairyland Point
Upcoming Events
Geology Ranger Talk
Come join a Ranger near Sunset Point and learn about the geology of Bryce Canyon. Program typically lasts 20-30 minutes. Wheelchair accessible. This event will be cancelled in the event of thunderstorms, low wind chill, or staffing shortages.
Rim Walk with a Ranger
Come join a Ranger at Sunset Point for a rim walk toward Sunrise Point. The talk will be on a random topic of the ranger's choosing, covering natural, cultural, or historical resources. Visitors meet Ranger at alcove to the right of Sunset Point overlook. This program will be cancelled by thunderstorms, extreme cold weather, or staffing shortages. Wheelchair Accessible.
Star Party
Come join the Constellation & Telescope Tours! Meet with Astronomy interns and rangers to gaze through varying telescopes upon planets, galaxies, and the stars under the night sky of Bryce Canyon National Park. All events take place at Sunset Point. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own red lights for visibility, but they can be provided a red-light filter (red cellophane) by the AstroStaff upon arrival. Visitors will be greeted by a member of the AstroStaff, who will inform them of program safety and what they will be experiencing that night. Wheelchair accessible. All ages welcome. No pets.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: February, March, April, November
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Due of its high elevation climate, weather at Bryce Canyon through autumn, winter, and spring can be highly variable. From October to May temperatures fall below freezing nearly every night. The park typically experiences its coldest and snowiest periods from December through February. Spring storms in March and April can still produce heavy snowfall that may impact travel in the region. Summer highs are typically in the 70s-80s F and afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.