Bryce Canyon in One Day

Bryce Canyon in One Day

Begin your day at the visitor centerto get an overview of the park and to purchase books and maps. Watch the video and peruse exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Bryce Canyon. Thus informed, drive to the historic Bryce Canyon National Park Lodge. From here, stroll along the relaxing Rim Trail. Afterward, drive the 18-mi 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 and energy for a hike, the easiest route into the amphitheater is the Queen's Garden Trailat Sunrise Point. 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. If you don't have time to drive the 18 mi to the end of the park, skip Bryce Canyon National Park Lodge and drive 2 mi from the visitor center to Inspiration Point and the next 2 mi to Bryce Point.

End your day with sunset at Inspiration Point and dinner at Bryce Canyon National Park Lodge (you'll want to have made your reservations that morning). As you leave the park, stop at Ruby's Inn for Native American jewelry, souvenirs for the kids, and snacks for the road.