We will be in Las Vegas for a few days at the beginning of December. We would like to do a day trip by car whilst we are there. I would really like to see Bryce Canyon but is that too far for a day? If so has anyone any other suggestions?

Hoover Dam.

Las Vegas to Bryce is 525 miles round trip. It's a good 4 1/2 to 5 hour drive ONE WAY. I wouldn't attempt Bryce unless you planned on spending at least one night there.

Nearby are Valley of Fire State Park

http://www.desertusa.com/mag00/feb/stories/vof.html

and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

http://www.desertusa.com/redrock/

Zion National Park is 325 miles and about 5 hours ROUND trip driving time. If you do go to Bryce, then by all means drive through Zion, it's right on the way!

Utahtea

I second Valley of Fire. Easily done in a day and well worth going. Zion is about 3 hours each way, so this "can" be done in a day. We have done a day trip to Zion a few times and it isn't too bad, but then we didn't do any real long trails.

Red Rock Canyon,Valley of Fire....half day trips and well worth it. Zion..full day and great too.