cslasor

I was just wondering if there is an opening time for the parks at Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, or Arches. We won't be staying in the parks, but since we'll be on East Coast time we'll be up early and would like to head into the parks for sunrise. Will we be able to get in that early, or do we have to wait until the gates are opened?

Thanks!

J62

Yes, you will be able to get in that early. The parks are open 24x7.

Dayle

Except for the fact that from March to end of October Zion's main canyon is only accessible via park shuttle. Those staying at the Zion Lodge (in park) can drive to the lodge, get a pass for their car to do so, and cannot drive any where else. Obviously, one of the shuttle stops is at the Lodge.

Check the nps.gov web site for shuttle schedules. They do start fairly early in the morning, but not early enough for sunrise.

J62

They did not ask about Zion. Only Bryce, CL and Arches....

cslasor

I appreciate the advice about Zion, but we've been there before and plan to skip it this time. We only have 3.5 days of exploring time before we have to head back to Vegas so I don't know if we'll make it to Bryce, Arches, AND CL but we'll do what we can and save the rest for another trip.

michele_d

The sunrise in Bryce is stunning as the sun moves across the shades of orange. Bryce is unlike anywhere else on earth.

Dayle

Have a good trip! I was rushing when I replied and assumed you were asking about the typical park loop trip.

db6040

Do you have your lodging in place? Bryce is really wonderful at sunrise as mentioned above. If not staying in the park, hopefully you are staying at Ruby's so you can get there very early. As noted, you will have no problem entering the parks very early. It is my understanding that if you arrive when the gates are not manned by a ranger, you are expected to pay the entrance fee at the visitor center when they open.