Planning Your Time

Bryce Canyon in One Day

Begin your day at the visitor center to get an overview of the park and to purchase books and maps. Watch the 20-minute film and peruse the excellent exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Bryce Canyon. Then, proceed to the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge. From here, stroll along the relaxing Rim Trail. If you have the time and stamina to walk into the amphitheater, the portion of the Rim Trail near the lodge gets you to the starting point for either of the park’s two essential hikes, the Navajo Loop Trail from Sunset Point or the Queen's Garden Trail that connects Sunset to Sunrise Point.

Afterward (or if you skip the hike), drive the 18-mile main park road, stopping at the overlooks along the way. Allowing for traffic, and if you stop at all 13 overlooks, this drive will take you between two and three hours.

If you have the time for more walking, a short, rolling hike along the Bristlecone Loop Trail at Rainbow Point rewards you with spectacular views and a cool walk through a forest of bristlecone pines.

End your day watching the sunset at Inspiration Point or dinner at Bryce Canyon Lodge.