Bryce Canyon: 5 Beautiful Things You Must See

As one of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah, Bryce Canyon is an alien landscape that you’ll never know really exists until you’re experiencing it. From the fresh mountain air to the dramatic rock formations, it truly feels like another world. Whether you’re planning for a day hike or attending a ranger-led evening program, there’s plenty to stop and see along the way – so be sure to plan for a full day of experiences. From hoodoos to a spectacular night sky, this is a national park you can’t miss.

Hoodoos

You’ll first know that you’ve arrived at Bryce Canyon National Park when you see its iconic hoodoos. Bryce Canyon is one of the best places in the world to see this rare geological formation. These magical and vibrant pillars of rock are impossible to miss. You’ll be able to walk among these towers of copper throughout the park – keep an eye out for Thor’s Hammer when you do so! I highly recommend making a stop at Sunrise Point, Inspiration Point, or Sunset Point to get a panoramic view of the park’s many landscapes.

A Song of Seasons

Bryce Canyon National Park plays its film “A Song of Seasons” every 30 minutes at the Visitor Center. The information and videography in this film provides a comprehensive description of the park during each of the four seasons. Although this small-but-mighty park is famous for its geography, it can be easy to miss the other amazing aspects of Bryce Canyon. There’s something even more magical about traversing a protected area when you understand its past and human history. This film is a perfect opportunity to learn more about the park if you’re interested in history and nature.

Southern Scenic Drive (13 viewpoints!)

Within Bryce Canyon there is plenty to see and do, but the scenic drive is a great way to see the most if you’re short on time. It doesn’t get much more perfect than 13 viewpoints in 38 miles. The pink, white, orange and grey cliffs make up an incredible sight at the Rainbow and Yovimpa stopping points. Some of the most fantastic sights are easily overlooked, so it’s all the more exciting when you are able to catch Fairyland Point and Swamp Canyon.

Picturesque Hiking Trails

If immersion is as important to you as it is to me, then be sure not to skip one of the enchanting trails. To view the hoodoos from above on an easy hike, walk the Rim Trail along the edge of the Bryce Amphitheater. The entire trail extends 11 miles to Fairyland, but you can simply turn back according to your schedule. For a moderate hike through the backcountry, I recommend the Swamp Canyon Trail. If you’re up for a strenuous hike and more privacy on the trail, Peekaboo Loop is a must. Catching a glimpse of the Wall of Windows is something not many others will be able to check off their bucket list otherwise.

The Night Sky

This park is famous for its awe-inspiring night sky. Bryce Canyon’s clear air, high elevation, and distance from any high-population areas results in one of the darkest sky areas in the entire country. Stargazing is constantly celebrated here, where astronomy festivals and full moon hikes happen throughout the year. The National Park Service puts a lot of energy into protecting Bryce Canyon and the areas around it. Thanks to them, you can see thousands of stars and the Milky Way in great detail.