15 Epic Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Start an exciting journey in Bryce Canyon, where funny rock formations and lots of fun are waiting!

From exploring the Fairyland Loop to enjoying the night sky, there's a ton of enjoyment.

Shaka Guide has all the tips to make sure your Bryce adventure is both fun and amazing!

1. Hike the Navajo Loop Trail

trail in navajo loop trail in bryce canyon Shutterstock Image

The Navajo Loop trail is one of the most popular hiking trails at Bryce Canyon National Park, and for good reason—it’s full of hidden gems!

The 1.3-mile loop leads you through a series of switchbacks and through the heart of the park's iconic hoodoo formations.

Along the way, you’ll see the famed Thor’s Hammer, Queen’s Garden, and more!

2. Watch the Sunrise from Sunset Point

bryce canyon overlook from sunset point Shutterstock Image

Wait…what? Yep, you read that correctly!

Sunrise and Sunset Points are popular places to view the spectacular Bryce Canyon Amphitheater, and both will provide you with a spectacular view of the rising sun.

However, Sunset Point is much closer to the Amphitheater than Sunrise Point, so the view is much more expansive.

3. Attend a Ranger Program

Join the talented and knowledgeable Bryce Canyon park rangers for:

guided hikes
astronomy programs to explore the park's dark skies, and
informative talks at designated viewpoints

Rangers often share insights into the park's natural and cultural history, providing an educational and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.

4. Watch the Night Sky

bryce canyon at night Image from Flickr by Barton Davis Smith

Bryce Canyon is an International Dark Sky Park. Its remote location, clean air, and high altitude make it one of the darkest places in the country after sunset.

This makes it an excellent location for stargazing.

Attend a ranger-led astronomy program or venture out on your own to witness a dazzling display of stars and celestial bodies.

5. Take a Full Moon Hike

Every month (weather permitting), the Bryce Canyon park rangers offer Full Moon Hikes.

These guided hikes lead visitors along designated trails, allowing them to witness the mesmerizing hoodoos and rock formations illuminated by the moonlight.

Experience the ethereal ambiance at Bryce Canyon. The absence of artificial lights enhances the celestial spectacle.

Furthermore, it provides a magical and immersive way to appreciate the park's natural beauty during the tranquil night hours.

6. Take a Scenic Drive

tunnel road in bryce canyon Shutterstock Image

Take a leisurely drive on the 18-mile scenic drive along the main road.

This route takes you to multiple viewpoints, offering spectacular panoramas of the Bryce Amphitheater and other geological wonders.

Be sure to check out the Natural Bridge, Agua Canyon, and the stunning views from Yovimpa and Rainbow Points—aka, the southernmost viewpoints in the park.

7. Ride a Horse

In the early days of the park, horseback riding was the only mode of transportation through the hoodoos.

Nowadays, there are several stables in the surrounding Bryce Canyon City that offer guided horseback riding trail rides for every skill level!

It’s a fun and unique way to see the entire canyon up close and personally.

8. Hike the Fairyland Loop

hiker hiking fairyland loop trailhead in bryce canyon Image from Flickr by Alissa

This hike is challenging at Bryce Canyon National Park, yet incredibly scenic!

The Fairyland Loop spans 8 miles, showcasing enchanting hoodoos, spires, and unique rock formations.

It offers hikers panoramic views of the vast amphitheater.

Additionally, as you traverse the trail, expect to encounter iconic features such as Tower Bridge and the Chinese Wall.

The varied terrain, including open meadows and rocky descents, makes for a diverse and rewarding trek.

9. Go Snowshoeing

When the snow hits the ground at Bryce Canyon, snowshoers hit the trails!

Snowshoers with some experience often enjoy the Rim Trail and the Bristlecone Loop Trail.

The roads to Fairyland Viewpoint and Paria View are closed in winter, allowing for snowshoe traffic.

If you're not an experienced snowshoer but have always been curious, ranger-led snowshoe hikes are a perfect way to get started!

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes are free, and they even lend out their snowshoes and poles! All you have to do is register at the visitor center.

10. Party at WinterFest

During President’s Day Weekend each February, Ruby’s Inn at Bryce Canyon National Park hosts a family-friendly Winter Festival.

During this long weekend, the Park is filled with free activities for all ages, interests, and skill levels.

Past activities included archery clinics, guided snowshoe tours, yoga clinics, watercolor classes, and cross-country skiing clinics.

End the day with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace in Ruby’s lobby!

11. Attend the Annual Astronomy Festival

Usually held every June, the Bryce Canyon National Park Astronomy Festival is a weekend filled with:

ranger-led hikes
Native American storytelling
family-friendly activities
astronomy talks and
demonstrations from some of the world’s leading astronomy experts

You can even gaze at the stars through state-of-the-art telescopes!

12. Explore Ruby’s Inn

brown wooden store Image from Flickr by Anna Irene

Serving as a gateway to the park, Ruby's Inn offers a range of accommodations, including a hotel, campground, and RV park.

The facility also features amenities such as:

restaurants
a general store
an indoor pool, and
recreational activities

...making it a convenient and well-equipped base for visitors to Bryce Canyon National Park

13. Hike the Mossy Cave Trail

river in bryce canyon with mountains on top Shutterstock Image

Located in the northern section of the park, this trail offers a uniquely peaceful experience, especially during warmer months.

The easy walk provides unique geological features. These include hoodoos and a dripping moss-covered alcove.

It makes for a family-friendly trip with rewarding views of both the scenic landscape and the intriguing mossy formations.

14. Go Camping

There are two full-service campgrounds—North and Sunset— inside the park and plenty of camping options nearby.

If you seek a more immersive experience, obtain a backcountry permit and embark on a backpacking adventure.

15. Explore the Backcountry

The backcountry allows visitors to connect intimately with the park's stunning natural beauty.

Be prepared for challenging terrains, varying elevations, and potentially rugged conditions, as backcountry trails often lead to less-explored areas of the park.

Hikers can anticipate encountering mesmerizing geological formations, expansive vistas, and a sense of solitude amid the striking landscapes.

Just be sure to obtain a backcountry permit from the park, adhere to Leave No Trace principles, and be well-equipped for the journey.

Conclusion

bryce canyon hoodoos from below Shutterstock Image

Wrap up your Bryce Canyon adventure with Shaka Guide's audio tour guide, your perfect companion for exploring this natural wonderland. Don't miss out on the laughs, breathtaking views, and insider tips. Let Shaka Guide turn your visit into an unforgettable experience – fun, easy, and full of surprises!

Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Bryce Canyon National Park!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Bryce Canyon National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.

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