Before you go

Your trip to Bryce Canyon City.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

Bryce Canyon City – Utah Destination Zion and Bryce Canyon about 430 km from Salt Lake City

How to get there

  • Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) Cedar City · 125 km

Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.

It’s about a two-hour drive from Springdale via State Route 9 and US-89, and about four hours from Salt Lake City. The nearest commercial airport is Cedar City. In season, a shuttle links the town to the park’s overlooks.

How many days

One day allows visiting the amphitheater overlooks and the Navajo Loop trail together with Queen's Garden. With an extra night, you'll have time for sunrise at Sunrise Point and the drive out to Rainbow Point.

When to go

From May to October days are usually pleasant and nights cold. Afternoon storms with lightning are common in July and August. From November to March it usually snows, and snow on the pinnacles draws photographers; trails may require crampons on boots.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes, to get there. Inside the park, the road is open to cars year-round, and in season there are shuttles between the town and the amphitheater overlooks.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Bryce Canyon City
  1. Morning
    Sunrise Point and Queen's Garden

    Watch the sunrise at Sunrise Point and descend via the Queen's Garden trail to the bottom of the amphitheater, returning on the Navajo Loop to Sunset Point.

  2. Afternoon
    Southern overlooks

    Drive the park road to Rainbow Point at the southern end, stopping at overlooks on the return, such as Natural Bridge and Inspiration Point.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

Where to stay to visit Bryce Canyon?

In Bryce Canyon City, by the park entrance, or at the historic hotel inside the park. Tropic, about 15 km to the east, and Panguitch, about 40 km away, offer other options.

What time zone is Bryce Canyon City in?

Utah’s: UTC−7 in winter and UTC−6 during daylight saving time, from March to November.

Is it cold at Bryce Canyon?

Yes, especially at night. At roughly 2,400 meters, nights are cold even in summer, and from November to March temperatures often fall below zero. Bring warm clothing at any time of year.

Is Bryce Canyon good for stargazing?

Yes. The high plain’s dark sky is protected, and the park often runs guided stargazing programs with rangers, especially in summer. Check the schedule.

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