After going to Bryce Canyon for the first time this summer, I’m already anxiously waiting until the next time I can go back and see anything I may have missed. There are so many National Parks that blow my mind but I’ve honestly never seen anything like Bryce Canyon! No other park or canyon looks anything like this place and I highly recommend going if you have the chance or are ever in the area. There’s something so unique about this park plus you’ll already be so close to Zion if you plan on going there too!
FREE CAMPSITES
#1
Forest Road 090
GPS: 37.656008, -112.164194
We stayed here for one night while visiting Bryce and loved it! There are lots of trees around and deer walking through. It’s beautiful and the best part is that it’s only about 5 minutes outside of the park. After a long day of hiking, there was no way we could drive far so this was perfect. Really close to the main road as well but not noisy. Any size vehicle would be able to get in and out easily.
#2
Great Western Trail
GPS: 37.658136, -112.1679
This is another one right outside of Bryce maybe 5 minutes from the entrance. This site does have better views than #1 but of course, with the views come a little rougher roads. The van was totally find though and other vans will be as well. My only concern might be with big RVs but even then, you should be okay. This and the FR 090 are perfect stops at night when you’re visiting Bryce!
#3
Twin Hollows Canyon
lGPS: 37.2071, -112.6893
Twin Hollows is perfect if you are traveling to or from Zion National Park because it’s right in the middle! There is a small town, Mt. Carmel Junction that sits right in between the parks where you’ll find this site. There are fire rings and it’s right up against the Virgin River so you can even hear the water going by all night. It’s really close to the main road you’ll be taking between parks and super easy access for all vehicles.
Fees and Passes
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for 7 day pass
Or: $15 per person if entering on bike or foot
Bryce Only Annual Pass: $35 per year
National Parks Pass (recommended): $80 for annual pass to all parks including up to 4 people each visit
All Include: Unlimited shuttle rides during visit
WHAT TO DO
Rim Trail: (11 miles roundtrip) This is a very highly trafficked trail and the one most visitors are familiar with because of the incredible views! You can walk along the rim with 4 major stops on the way. Starting at Sunrise Point, then heading to Sunset Point, followed by Inspiration Point, and lastly Bryce Point. Frankly if you are going to Bryce, this trail is a must and you’d be crazy not to spend an a day enjoying it!
Navajo Trail Loop: (1.3 miles roundtrip) Such a cool trail if you get the time to really explore! It starts at Sunset Point and goes deep down into the Bryce Amphitheater. Be sure to bring water as this is a more moderate level trail than the Rim.
Peek-A-Book Trail: (5.5 miles roundtrip) Starting at Bryce Point, this trail quickly drops down to the bottom. It is the most difficult hike on the list but also worth every minute! You get to experience so much of the canyon that you can’t see just from the top. There are also restrooms when you get to the canyon floor.
Additional Info
When To Go:
Open 24 Hours / 365 days a year
May – September is the warmest weather and all trails, roads, and campgrounds are OPEN
October – April are less busy but roads may be closed and access to trails may not be accessible
What To Bring:
Bring water and snacks on every hike!
Get a great a resource book here for extra info and any more details.
Because these hikes are not as strenuous as some others, I recommend getting a hiking fanny pack such as this versus a big backpack.
FINAL NOTES
Bryce Canyon is one of the most amazing parks I’ve been to and I really recommend going when you have the chance! The Rim Trail may be busy but you definitely need to check it out during your visit. The colors of the canyon are just incredible from the top (Inspiration Point was my favorite), and going down to the canyon floor on a separate hike will give you a completely different perspective of the park. Good luck on your trip and safe travels, friends!
