What to see in Bryce National Park

Hoodoo Gonna Call

Welcome to Bryce Canyon National Park! This is one of the five National Parks in Utah, and just maybe my favorite ;) 

Each US National Park offers its own unique beauty, and Bryce's lies in the rocks. The amazing bright orange rock mixed with hues of white and red will surly make you say wow. Bryce Canyon is the most popular lookout and stop in the whole park, and rightfully so. 

The great thing about our National Parks is the diverse array of activities offered. From camping, biking, sight-seeing, hiking and even a good old walk there is something for every adventurer. I would love to see all 59 parks and camp at each one to truly experience all I can inside the park. My dad and I visited all 5 in Utah, but only had about 1 day or less at each, so I'm ready to go back all ready and see more!

tips for a successful day in the park

Because there is so much offered inside the parks, it can be overwhelming choosing exactly what to do. Luckily there are a few ways you can be better prepared for making accurate choices for the day. 

1. Always, always, always get a map. When you first get to the payment booth they should offer you one. This will give you some insights on the layout of the park and how far apart your target interest point are. 
2. Load up on Gas and Snacks. Some parks offer food for a pretty penny but it is always a good idea to bring your own food to save money for more exciting activities :) Also gas stations can be far and in-between from the parks so always start your trip on full!  
3. Plan a bit before you go. Take it from personal experience - knowing a bit about the park before you go will always make the day better.  I am all for spontaneous fun but sometimes weather, park entrances, time of year, and hours of operation can play a huge part in what you can an cannot do on your trip. I always start on the NPS website and Pinterest for some ideas of what the park is like + what I want to see!

what to see in bryce

1. THE SCENIC DRIVE

Bryce Canyon has one of the most beautiful drives with lots of easily accessible pull off areas. I would recommend starting here because it gives you an idea for how big the park is and you might stumble on a hike or short walk you want to take. There is plenty of parking at each stop and information. Each stop is pin-pointed on the map, but not all have explantaions. We stopped at almost eveyone just to see what was there! 

2. SEE BRYCE CANYON

Regardless of doing the full 14 mile drive, you should deffinetly make it to Bryce Canyon Overlook. There are three main lookouts of the Canyon, Inspiration Point, Sunrise Point, and Sunset Point. Obviously sunrise and sunset point are great during those times, but I found Inspiration Point Incrediable.  

At Inspiration Point you get the best view of the Hoodoos! Bryce is famous for these and one look at them will show you why. They are each so unique and vibrant. My dad and I stood there for at lest 10 minutes just taking it all in. It was honestly... inspiring! :) 

3. SEE NATURAL BRIDGE

One of the final stops on the scenic drive is this beautiful sight. Natural Bridge is a natural Arch that formed over thousands of years. It is perfectly placed making a Natural Bridge! It is so amazing to see what mother nature has created. 

Do not hop the fence for a perfect photo op or you will promptly be asked to pay a $100 fine! Some things are just meant to be enjoyed :)

4. SEE RAINBOW POINT

You'll defiantly feel the altitude here! One of the highest lookouts is Rainbow Point. I found it so beautiful, and true to the name with tons of colors spread throughout the rocks. I obviously haven't been any other time of the year, but Fall was absolutely stunning. The golden aspens and green trees spread throughout the canyon was breathtaking. 

5. HIKE TO THE HOODOOS

You can't come to Bryce without seeing them. Because we were on a tight schedule we didn't do many hikes in the parks so I can't wait to come back and hike to the Hoodoo's themselves. There are tons of hikes ranging from one mile to 15+ based on your adventure type! So take the time and plan out time to see them up close and personally - you will not regret it! 

6. STAR GAZE

Bryce Canyon is one of the darkest places in the US so that means its one of the best star gazing places too! The park is open 24 hours for your connivance to come star gaze and photograph as you please :) It is high on my bucket list the next time I come back! 

This adventure to Utah with my dad was SO FUN and I will cherish the memories forever. If you live in the Mid-west then I highly recommend getting in the car and going. Old fashion road trips are so fun - and in todays age you can make tons of fun playlists and download loads of podcasts and audio-books. The drives are so beautiful and then you have the freedom to go to all the parks and adventure on your own time!