One Day In Bryce Canyon National Park

I travel full-time in my camper van and have visited more than 17 National Parks. On my most recent trip to Bryce Canyon I only spent one day in the park, which is enough time if you’re on a timeline!

If you only have one day in Bryce Canyon you can still see the highlights. This guide will help you maximize your time in the park so you can see all the best parts while still being efficient and avoid the crowds.

While I have been to Bryce Canyon several times, my most recent trip was just one day. It’s possible to see everything this smaller national park has to offer if you go in with a solid itinerary for your time there.

In this guide I’ll cover everything you need to know about the park before visiting, offer a 1 day itinerary and some additional things to do in Bryce Canyon if you have spare time to explore more of the national park.

Bryce Canyon Map

Bryce Canyon is the smallest national park in Utah and only has one entrance and one primary road. This makes it pretty hard to get lost! Most of the hikes start from Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Bryce Point or Rainbow Point (that’s a lot of points).

One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park

If you’re tight on time, it’s possible to spend one day (or less) in Bryce Canyon National Park. My last trip to Bryce Canyon National Park was just one day, and I was still able to see everything I wanted to!

The benefit to being a smaller park is that it’s very manageable to build a one day itinerary for Bryce Canyon. While you’re there, you’ll want to get in some hiking, drive the scenic road, and stop along the beautiful viewpoints. I’ll cover all of that (and more) in this itinerary!

Things To Do In Bryce Canyon

Don’t be fooled by its size, there’s quite a bit going on at Bryce Canyon National Park. From horseback riding to stargazing there’s something for every type of traveler and outdoor enthusiast here.

1. Bryce Canyon Hikes

There are many incredible hikes in Bryce Canyon to choose from. Easier hikes primarily stay along the rim and do not descend into the canyon. 

If you’re up for more of a challenge, and elevation gain, consider some of the moderate and hard hikes which take you down into the canyon and up close and personal with the hoodoos.

My favorite hikes are Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail, and Sunset Point to Sunrise Point.

Additional hikes to consider are Mossy Cave Trail, Peekaboo Loop Trail, Fairyland Loop Trail, Rim Trail and Under-The-Rim Trail.

15 Incredible Bryce Canyon Hikes

2. Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

Bryce Canyon has one of the prettiest scenic drives I’ve seen in a national park (in addition to Going To The Sun Road in Glacier National Park). 

Southern Scenic Drive, the main park road, is 18-miles long. It runs from the park entrance to Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Points.

There are 9 scenic overlooks along Southern Scenic Drive. It took me 2-3 hours to drive, including all my stops and a few very short hikes.

I recommend driving from the park entrance to Rainbow Point without stopping. On your return you can stop at each of the overlooks – they’ll all be on your right side on the return which makes pulling in and out much easier.

Pull offs that you absolutely must see are Rainbow Point, Yovimpa Point, Agua Canyon and Natural Bridge. My favorite was Natural Bridge.

3. Stargazing and Astronomy Programs

Bryce Canyon sits at high elevation, more than 9,000 feet above sea level, where the air is clear and city lights don’t spoil the view. That’s why it’s designated as a Dark Sky Park, and one of the best spots on earth to look at the stars. 

In fact, it’s one of the darkest places in North America accessible by paved roads which makes this an ideal opportunity to stargaze.

The park rangers, known as Dark Rangers, lead nighttime walks so you can see the famous rock towers glow in the moonlight and spot the Milky Way with just your eyes, or with binoculars and telescopes. They also offer astronomy programs where rangers show you around the sky and teach you about the stars and planets. It’s like stepping from a land full of rock spires straight into a star-filled sky. 

If you visit Bryce Canyon between the end of May and the start of September, telescope viewings are offered. They even have special hikes during the full moon that you can sign up for at the visitor center.

4. Backpacking In Bryce Canyon

Backpacking in Bryce Canyon National Park takes you deep into Utah’s wild heart, where you can have a quiet, up-close experience with the park’s amazing scenery. The park has two trails that are great for spending a few days hiking and camping: Under-the-Rim Trail and the Riggs Spring Loop Trail. These trails wind through giant rock spires, peaceful meadows, and spots where you can see for miles.

You need to get a permit if you want to camp overnight, which helps keep the park natural and not too crowded. 

As of December 2022, you can book these permits online three months before your trip. Before this change, you had to go to the visitor center and could only get permits two days ahead of time.

5. Horseback Riding In Bryce Canyon

Riding a horse through Bryce Canyon National Park is a classic adventure that lets you see the park’s wild beauty from a whole new angle—right from the horse’s back. 

On my first visit to the park, I went on a horseback tour, and it’s still one of the best things I’ve ever done. The horses sometimes snack on the plants along the trail, which can be a bit scary when you’re riding close to the edge of a cliff. But don’t worry, the horses are steady on their feet!

The guided rides take you on paths that cut through the quiet, impressive landscape of huge rock towers and along the edges of the natural amphitheater. These tours are great for anyone, no matter if you’ve never ridden a horse or if you’re an experienced pro, and they can last from an hour to half a day. 

You’ll feel like you’re stepping back into the old days of the Wild West.

The local tour companies have guides who really know their stuff and horses that are easy to ride, so you’re sure to have a fun and safe trip through this amazing place. Horseback riding in Bryce Canyon lets you enjoy the park’s beauty slowly and magically, just like the first people who explored this land.

One Day In Bryce Canyon Itinerary

On my most recent trip to Bryce Canyon, I explored the park in just one day. You can absolutely see all of the highlights in Bryce Canyon in less than a day, and it leaves you enough time to add in a longer hike. Here’s what I did, and what I recommend for anyone visiting Bryce Canyon National Park:

Watch the Sunrise

Get to the park early. Bryce Canyon National Park is open 24-hours a day, like most National Parks. I’ve always found it’s easiest to enter the park before the gate is open (you can pay later, some parks have a self-pay station or if you have an American The Beautiful Pass your admission is free). This cuts down on lines, crowds, and trouble finding parking spaces at popular trailheads and viewpoints.

The best place to watch sunrise at Bryce Canyon is from Sunrise Point (a little on the nose, eh?). There is plenty of parking at Sunset point. From there it’s an easy half mile, paved, flat hike to Sunrise Point. From here you look East, over the Bryce Amphitheater to see the glorious sun rising over the hoodoos. Trust me, this is one of those travel moments you won’t quickly forget. 

Hike Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail

Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail are two separate out-and-back trails that can be connected to form a loop. This was my favorite hike in Bryce Canyon and I highly recommend it if you only have time for one hike.

Queens Garden Trail starts from Sunrise Point. You’re already here for sunrise so take this hike clockwise, starting with Queens Garden Trail and ending with Navajo Loop Trail (which brings you back to the parking lot at Sunset Point).

This is a great hike following sunrise because the crowds will be minimal and the rising sun casts beautiful golden colors across the canyon. The combined loop is 3.1 miles with 649 feet of elevation gain. Because you’re starting at the top of the canyon you’ll descend first, and climb back out of the canyon through a series of iconic switchbacks.

Along the hike you’ll see Queen Victoria, a hoodoo formation named because it resembles the real Queen, followed by Two Bridges and Thor’s Hammer.

Be sure to pack lots of water. Even early in the morning, hiking in Bryce Canyon can be very dehydrating. Bryce Canyon is a high-desert, the elevation and dry air combined means you need more water than normal. Do not plan to find water on the trail, you should pack it with you.

Inspiration Point and Bryce Point

By now it’s mid-morning and the crowds are starting to pick up so it’s the perfect time to drive to Inspiration Point and Bryce Point and take in the views.

The first stop you’ll come to is Inspiration Point, which looks out over Bryce Amphitheater. Inspiration Point also sits along Rim Trail, a 10.7 mile trail that follows the edge of the canyon. You can complete sections or the entire hike. 

The distance from Inspiration Point to Bryce Point along the Rim Trail is 1.5 miles (3 miles roundtrip). If you have some time this is a nice hike to do – either out and back for a total of 3 miles, or from point-to-point using the shuttle to return.

If you don’t opt to hike to Bryce Point you can continue the drive (2 miles by road).

Note: if you are using the shuttle to get around Bryce Canyon this is as far as it’ll take you. To travel beyond the Bryce Amphitheater area on the Southern Scenic Route to Rainbow Point requires your own vehicle.

Picnic Lunch at Rainbow Point

From Bryce Point, get back in your car and drive the Southern Scenic Drive to Rainbow Point. This drive takes about 30 minutes. You’ll pass by several scenic pull outs, but they’ll all be on the opposite side of the road so I recommend visiting them on the return trip when it’s easier to pull in and out.

At Rainbow Point there is ample parking and picnic tables, along with an epic view. I had to circle the parking lot 2 or 3 times for a spot to open up, but because so many people come just to see the view and then leave there are constantly parking spaces becoming available.

Be sure to see Yovimpa Point as well as Rainbow Point while you’re here. I also found this to be a great place to use the restroom and refill my water bottles.

Rainbow Point is the highest elevation in Bryce Canyon National Park. It’s over 9,000 feet above sea level! This means it can be cold. I visited in mid-October and had to wear a winter coat. I was so chilly! The area is fairly exposed so if there’s a breeze it can chill you off quickly.

If you’re in the mood for a more challenging hike, Under-the-Rim and Riggs Spring Loop trails can be started from Rainbow Point. For an easy 1-mile hike through an ancient pine forest consider hiking Bristlecone Loop Trail.

Southern Scenic Drive

Rainbow Point is the farthest point in the park you can reach by vehicle. Next, head back towards the visitors center along Southern Scenic Drive – this is the same route you came in on, and the only road through Bryce Canyon. 

On the way back to the entrance make sure to stop at the scenic pull offs along the route. The order in which you’ll approach them, coming from Rainbow Point, is Black Birch Canyon, Ponderosa Canyon, Agua Canyon (a must-see), Natural Bridge (also a must-see), Farview Point, Piracy Point and Swamp Canyon.

Visit the Bryce Canyon Lodge and General Store

Before leaving the park be sure to stop at the Bryce Canyon Lodge and the General Store. 

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon was opened in 1925 and has 114 rooms – including the lodge suits as well as motel rooms and cabins. The restaurant in the lodge serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is open to the public. There is also a gift shop located in the lodge.

If you’re hungry, you can pick up grab-and-go meals from the General Store, or get a slice of pizza at Valhalla Pizzeria. Unfortunately, all of these are closed during winter in Bryce Canyon.

Shuttle Service At Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon offers a free shuttle service to get around the park, but there are a few important things you need to know before you go.

The shuttle service operates from 8am – 6pm April through October with extended hours to 8pm May through September. The most current schedule can be found on the parks website.

You can park outside the park, at Shuttle Station Old Bryce Town, Best Western+ Grand, Best Western+ Ruby’s Inn or, inside the park at the Visitor Center to catch the shuttle.

The shuttle only stops at locations along Bryce Amphitheater: Visitor Center, Sunset Campground, Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, Bryce Lodge and Sunrise Point. The Bryce Canyon shuttle does not take visitors along the Southern Scenic Route to Rainbow Point or Yovimpa Point.

If you choose not to take your own vehicle into Bryce Canyon National Park, don’t worry! I think the best views are along Bryce Amphitheater, so you’ll see the best of the park via the shuttle routes.

Hotels Near Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon Lodge

If you’re looking to stay inside Bryce Canyon National Park then you have limited options. The only hotel accommodations available are at Bryce Canyon Lodge – this is a very popular option, though, so be sure to book reservations far in advance.

If you’re ok with fewer comforts, consider camping at one of the two campgrounds at Bryce Canyon: North Campground or Sunset Campground.

Best Western+ Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

The Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel is one of two options immediately outside of the park entrance. It’s a great option if you’re looking for easy access to the park, especially if you plan on catching sunrise.

This hotel is known for its spacious rooms, modern amenities, and warm, rustic charm that echoes the natural beauty of the surrounding area. 

Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including a complimentary breakfast buffet to kick-start a day of adventure, an outdoor swimming pool to relax after a day of hiking, and a fitness center. With its prime location, the hotel provides easy access to the park, making it an ideal base for visitors looking to explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities that Bryce Canyon has to offer.

Best Western+ Ruby’s Inn

Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn is an iconic lodging option that stands as the closest full-service hotel outside Bryce Canyon National Park. 

This historic inn has been welcoming visitors since 1916, offering a blend of comfort and rustic charm. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, all equipped with modern conveniences, ensuring a restful stay amidst the excitement of exploring the park. 

The inn boasts amenities such as a stunning indoor pool, on-site dining options, and a general store. 

It’s also a hub for outdoor activities, with guided tours and equipment rentals available for those eager to venture into the stunning red rock landscape.

FAQs – One Day In Bryce Canyon National Park

Is 1 day enough for Bryce Canyon?

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park can be enough to see the highlights, especially if you’re short on time or just passing through on your way to Capitol Reef or the other Utah national parks. With a well-planned itinerary, you can experience some of the park’s most famous viewpoints and enjoy a few short hikes.

While one day is enough to see the main sights, spending more time in the park allows for deeper exploration, including longer hikes, backcountry adventures, and more time to soak in the natural beauty at a leisurely pace.

How much time do I need at Bryce Canyon?

The ideal amount of time to spend at Bryce Canyon National Park really depends on your interests and the depth of exploration you’re after. I have found one day in Bryce Canyon is enough time to see everything and enjoy some of the best hikes in the park.

Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:

Short Visit (1 Day in Bryce Canyon):

• If you’re pressed for time, one full day can suffice to see the park’s main highlights. This includes watching the sunrise or sunset from one of the famous viewpoints, hiking a couple of the shorter trails like the Navajo Loop or Queen’s Garden, and driving along the park’s main road to various overlooks.

Moderate Stay (2-3 Days in Bryce Canyon):

• With a couple of days, you can delve deeper. You can tackle more extensive hikes like the Fairyland Loop or the Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail, spend time at the Visitor Center, and enjoy ranger-led programs. This also gives you a chance to experience both sunrise and sunset, and perhaps some stargazing. Bryce Canyon is a certified International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best night sky viewing in the United States.

Extended Visit (4+ Days in Bryce Canyon):

• If you have the luxury of time, four days or more allows for a comprehensive experience. You can explore the backcountry trails, such as the Under-the-Rim Trail, with overnight camping. There’s also time for leisurely enjoyment of the park’s beauty, wildlife watching, photography, and attending multiple ranger-led programs.

Ultimately, even a short visit can be fulfilling with proper planning, but allowing more time gives you a richer, more relaxed experience.

Is Bryce or Zion better?

Choosing between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks is like picking between two stunning gems; each has its unique allure and offers different experiences.

Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its otherworldly hoodoos, spire-shaped rock formations that are densely packed into a series of natural amphitheaters. It’s at a higher elevation, which means cooler temperatures, especially at night, and potentially snow in the winter. Bryce is typically less crowded than Zion and can be seen in a shorter amount of time due to its more compact size. The park is known for its incredible night skies, making it a haven for stargazers. Hiking among the hoodoos is a surreal experience, and the park’s scenic drive offers breathtaking views.

Zion National Park, on the other hand, is characterized by its dramatic canyon views, high cliffs, and diverse ecosystems. It’s much larger than Bryce and has a wider variety of trails, ranging from easy riverside walks to the infamous Angel’s Landing, known for its sheer drop-offs and stunning vistas. Zion is generally warmer due to its lower elevation, making it more accessible in the winter months. The Virgin River running through the canyon offers unique hiking experiences, such as The Narrows, where you wade through the river between towering canyon walls.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Scenery: Bryce has hoodoos and high-elevation vistas; Zion has towering cliffs and deep canyons.
• Hiking: Bryce offers easy access to unique hikes among the hoodoos; Zion has a wider range of hikes, including some challenging and adventurous trails.
• Climate: Bryce is cooler and can have snow in winter; Zion is warmer.
• Accessibility: Bryce can be fully appreciated with a short visit and is less crowded; Zion may require shuttle use during peak season and can be quite busy.
• Activities: Both offer standard National Park activities like hiking, camping, and ranger programs, but Zion also offers rock climbing and canyoneering.

Which is better? It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a quick visit with easy but unique hikes and cooler weather, Bryce might be the better choice. If you’re after a more varied and potentially adventurous outdoor experience in a warmer climate, Zion could be the way to go.

Many visitors choose to visit both parks since they’re relatively close to each other (about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive apart), making it possible to enjoy the distinct beauty of both landscapes.

Can you do Bryce Canyon in half a day?

Yes, you can do Bryce Canyon National Park in half a day, although it will be a brief introduction to its beauty. Here’s how you could maximize your time:

• Drive the Scenic Route: Start with the 18-mile main park road, which has several pullouts and viewpoints. You can see some of the best views of the park from these spots, including Bryce Amphitheater, Inspiration Point, Bryce Point, and Rainbow Point at the end of the park road.
• Take a Short Hike: Choose one of the shorter trails to hike, like the Navajo Loop or the Queen’s Garden Trail, which offer a quick descent among the hoodoos and a real feel for the park’s unique landscape.
• Visit Sunrise and Sunset Points: These are easily accessible viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the hoodoos and amphitheater, especially dramatic at the times of day they’re named after.
• Stop by the Visitor Center: If time allows, the visitor center provides exhibits on the park’s natural history, geology, and wildlife.