Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah, USA. It is famous for its unique "rock forest" - the spire-shaped red rock group (Hoodoos), which is the most densely populated rock column area in the world.
It is not as majestic as the Grand Canyon, but it has a fairy-tale-like mystery, especially at sunrise or sunset, the whole red rock seems to light up the sky, and the picture is so beautiful that it seems unreal.
For photography enthusiasts, hiking enthusiasts, and even family tourists, this is a perfect travel destination. What's even better is that it is open all year round, with different styles in spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Opening hours & ticket prices
- Open all year round, 24 hours a day, including holidays
Tickets (valid for 7 days):
- Private car: $35
- Motorcycle: $30
- Hikers/cyclists: $20
- Annual pass (exclusive to Bryce): $70
- Annual pass (available in all national parks): $80
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and it is also recommended to book in advance on the official website.
How to get to Bryce Canyon?
- Self-driving is the most convenient way, about 4 hours from Las Vegas; about 4.5 hours from Salt Lake City.
- Public transportation is not convenient, and it is not recommended to rely on buses. It is recommended to rent a car or take a one-day/two-day tour from Las Vegas.
- The free shuttle bus in the park (operating from May to October) can be taken from the visitor center. It is recommended to use it during the peak season to avoid difficulty in finding a parking space.
Best time to visit
May to October is the best season for tourism, with suitable weather, rich vegetation and the most beautiful scenery.
Winter (November to March of the following year) Although there are few people and it is quiet, Bryce Canyon under the snow is also particularly dreamy. However, some trails may be closed, so please pay attention to safety.
Recommended attractions and trails
- Sunrise Point & Sunset Point: Appreciate the color changes of the rock pillars in the morning or evening glow, which is the first choice for photography.
- Navajo Loop Trail (1.3 miles, about 1 hour): The most popular circular trail, where you can see the iconic "Thor's Hammer" (Thor's Hammer).
- Queen's Garden Trail (1.8 miles, about 1.5 hours): A relatively easy trail, very suitable for family tourists.
- Peekaboo Loop Trail (5.5 miles): An advanced route that allows you to explore the beauty of the rock forest deep inside the canyon.
- Rim Trail (5.5 miles): Stroll along the edge of the canyon, connecting multiple viewpoints, suitable for tourists who do not want to go down the canyon but still want to enjoy the scenery.
Accommodation recommendation
- Bryce Canyon Lodge (in the park): The best location, within walking distance to the main attractions, but reservations must be made several months in advance.
- Campsites: North Campground and Sunset Campground (reservations are required during peak season)
- Hotels near Bryce Canyon City: Such as Ruby’s Inn and Best Western Plus, with convenient transportation.
Practical tips
1. The altitude is high (about 2,400 meters), and the temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so be sure to bring a jacket.
2. The ultraviolet rays are strong, remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat.
3. Bring enough water and snacks, as there are limited supply points in the park.
4. It is recommended to take photos in the early morning or evening, when the light is soft and the colors are more three-dimensional.
5. You can plan your trip with the nearby Zion National Park or Monument Valley to form a "Utah Grand Loop".
We should see the sculpture art of nature with our own eyes
The beauty of Bryce Canyon lies not in its scale, but in its strangeness and delicacy. Each rock pillar is a sculpture of nature for millions of years, and every change of light and shadow is breathtaking. Walking here, we seem to be walking between Mars and dreams.
If you have seen the Grand Canyon, you might as well come to Bryce Canyon; if you haven't planned your next trip, why not start from here. Let's explore this place that is least like the earth together!