All Trails Bryce Canyon Travel Guide
Introduction
If you are planning a trip to Bryce Canyon, you are in for a treat. This natural wonderland is located in the heart of Utah’s red rock country and offers visitors a wide variety of activities and attractions. From hiking to horseback riding, from camping to stargazing, this park truly has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. Let’s get started!
Top Attractions
Bryce Amphitheater
The Bryce Amphitheater is the main attraction in Bryce Canyon and is a must-see for any visitor. This stunning natural amphitheater is filled with hoodoos, spires, and other unique rock formations. The best way to experience the amphitheater is by taking the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes you down into the canyon and offers incredible views of the hoodoos up close.
Sunset Point
Sunset Point is one of the most popular viewpoints in Bryce Canyon and for good reason. From here, you can see the entire Bryce Amphitheater and watch as the sun sets over the hoodoos, turning them a brilliant shade of orange and red.
Thor’s Hammer
Thor’s Hammer is a unique rock formation that looks like, you guessed it, Thor’s hammer. This iconic formation can be seen from Sunset Point and is a popular spot for photos.
Hidden Gems
Fairyland Loop Trail
The Fairyland Loop Trail is a lesser-known trail in Bryce Canyon but is just as stunning as the more popular trails. This 8-mile loop takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the park, including the Tower Bridge and the Chinese Wall.
Mossy Cave Trail
The Mossy Cave Trail is a short and easy trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall and a small cave. This trail is great for families and is a nice break from the more strenuous hikes in the park.
Yovimpa Point
Yovimpa Point is a lesser-known viewpoint in Bryce Canyon but offers incredible views of the surrounding area. From here, you can see all the way to the Kaibab Plateau in Arizona and the Aquarius Plateau in Utah.
Food Scene
Ruby’s Inn
Ruby’s Inn is the main lodging option in Bryce Canyon and also has a great restaurant. The restaurant serves up classic American fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as more upscale options like steak and seafood.
Canyon Diner
The Canyon Diner is a great spot for breakfast or lunch in Bryce Canyon. They serve up classic diner food like pancakes, omelets, and burgers, as well as some healthier options like salads and smoothies.
Bryce Canyon Pines
Bryce Canyon Pines is a family-owned restaurant located just outside of the park. They serve up homestyle cooking like chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, and gravy, as well as some Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money in Bryce Canyon. The park has two campgrounds, North Campground and Sunset Campground, both of which are first-come, first-served. The campsites cost $20 per night and include a picnic table and fire pit.
Picnicking
Another great way to save money in Bryce Canyon is by packing a picnic lunch. There are several picnic areas in the park, including Sunset Point and Rainbow Point, where you can enjoy your lunch with a view.
Free Ranger Programs
The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including hikes, talks, and stargazing. These programs are free and a great way to learn more about the park.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Bryce Canyon is a hiker’s paradise, with over 50 miles of trails to explore. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the Navajo Loop Trail, the Queens Garden Trail, and the Fairyland Loop Trail.
Horseback Riding
If you prefer to explore the park on horseback, there are several companies that offer guided horseback rides. This is a great way to see the park from a different perspective and experience the Old West.
Stargazing
Bryce Canyon is a designated Dark Sky Park, which means that the park has minimal light pollution and is a great place to stargaze. The park offers several ranger-led stargazing programs, as well as telescopes that visitors can use on their own.
Family-Friendly Activities
Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program is a great way to get kids involved and excited about the park. Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center and complete activities to earn a badge.
Bryce Canyon Geology Festival
The Bryce Canyon Geology Festival is an annual event that takes place in July. The festival includes guided hikes, talks, and other activities that are geared towards families.
Bryce Canyon Rodeo
The Bryce Canyon Rodeo is a fun and entertaining event that takes place every summer. The rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, and other traditional rodeo events.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Peekaboo Loop Trail
The Peekaboo Loop Trail is a lesser-known trail in Bryce Canyon but offers some of the best views in the park. The trail is 5.5 miles long and takes you through some of the most remote parts of the park.
Bristlecone Loop Trail
The Bristlecone Loop Trail is a short and easy trail that takes you through a grove of ancient bristlecone pines. These trees are some of the oldest living things on earth and are truly a sight to behold.
Mossy Cave
Mossy Cave is a small cave located just outside of the park. The cave is home to an underground stream and waterfall and is a great spot for a cool break on a hot day.
Natural Wonders
Hoodoo Formations
The hoodoo formations in Bryce Canyon are truly unique and are the main attraction in the park. These tall, skinny rock spires were formed over millions of years of erosion and make for some incredible photos.
Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge is a natural arch that spans 85 feet and is one of the largest arches in Bryce Canyon. The best way to see the arch is by taking the Fairyland Loop Trail.
Rainbow Point
Rainbow Point is the highest point in the park and offers incredible views of the surrounding area. From here, you can see all the way to the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.
Vibrant Nightlife
Bryce Canyon Lodge
The Bryce Canyon Lodge is a great spot to grab a drink and relax after a long day of exploring the park. The lodge has a lounge with a fireplace and comfortable seating, as well as an outdoor patio with stunning views.
Stone Hearth Grille
The Stone Hearth Grille is located inside Ruby’s Inn and offers a more upscale dining experience. The restaurant has a full bar and a great selection of wines.
The Pizza Place
The Pizza Place is a casual spot in Bryce Canyon that serves up delicious pizzas and other Italian favorites. They also have a full bar and a great selection of beers on tap.
Local Markets
Ruby’s Inn General Store
The Ruby’s Inn General Store is a great spot to stock up on supplies before heading into the park. They sell everything from snacks and drinks to camping gear and souvenirs.
Bryce Canyon Trading Post
The Bryce Canyon Trading Post is a family-owned store located just outside of the park. They sell a variety of Native American crafts, as well as snacks and drinks.
Panguitch Farmers Market
The Panguitch Farmers Market is located in the nearby town of Panguitch and is a great spot to stock up on fresh produce and other local goods. The market is open on Saturdays from June to October.
Beaches and Mountains
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park is located just outside of Bryce Canyon and is