One Day Self-Drive Tour of the Unique Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique geological structures called hoodoos. These spire-like rock structures dominate the park’s landscape, creating a maze of vibrant red, orange, and white colors. This park is definitely worth a visit. If you are short on time like me, spending one day in the park is enough to get to all the popular spots. Here’s my self-drive tour around the park including some of the best hiking trails. For those who are also bringing their paw friends, dogs are allowed on all paved roads, paved viewpoint areas, the Rim Trail between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, and the Shared Use Path.

Sunrise at Sunrise Point

Watching sunrise or sunset over Bryce Canyon’s majestic hoodoos is such an awe-inspiring experience. It’s a must-do in my opinion. The most popular spots for sunrises or sunsets are Sunrise Point and Sunset Point around the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater area. The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail is an easy, paved half-mile walk along the rim of the canyon. And it’s dog friendly! It offers impressive vistas over the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater.

Ariel and I went for the sunrise at Sunrise Point. As the first rays of sunlight broke over the horizon, they illuminated the park’s iconic hoodoos, casting a warm, golden glow on the intricate rock formations. The amphitheater came alive with vibrant shades of orange, pink, and red, contrasting beautifully against the clear blue sky. The air was crisp and serene. It was truly a moment of pure tranquility and awe.

Another benefit of arriving early at the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater is that you can avoid the parking hustle. It’s impossible to find parking once the sun is up.

Navajo and Queen’s Garden Trail

If you only have time for one trail in Bryce Canyon National Park, you have to hike Navajo and Queen’s Garden Trail. It encapsulates the essence of Bryce Canyon and connects some of the most photogenic rock formations in the park. This popular 3-mile loop starts at Sunrise Point or Sunset Point. So I hiked it right after watching the sunrise.  

The trail first descends into the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and meanders among majestic hoodoos. As you delve deeper, you will encounter the Queen’s Garden, where a hoodoo resembling Queen Victoria is a highlight. The trail then converges with the Navajo Loop, leading through stunning terrain and passing iconic features like Wall Street, Thor’s Hammer, and Two Bridges. It offers diverse perspectives of the park, from panoramic rim views to up-close encounters with the intricately eroded hoodoos.

For those who want to explore deeper into the canyon, the 5.5-mile strenuous Peekaboo Loop Trail will take you through the heart of the national park, with more than 1,500 feet of elevation gain.

Bryce Point

Bryce Point in Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most spectacular vantage points. Perched at the edge of the amphitheater, Bryce Point presents a panoramic vista that encompasses the full scope of the park’s geological wonders. It is also a breathtaking viewpoint for sunrises. The elevation and unique angle at Bryce Point provides an unparalleled perspective of the vast array of spires and formations.

Farview Point

At an elevation of over 8,100 feet, Farview Point in Bryce Canyon National Park provides open, expansive views that extend far beyond the immediate amphitheater of hoodoos. From there, you can gaze across the vast expanse of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and towards the Kaiparowits Plateau.

Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge in Bryce Canyon National Park is a striking natural arch formed from the erosion of red rock. It’s one of the most photographed features in the park. Unlike typical river-formed natural bridges, this structure has been carved by the forces of frost-wedging and rain erosion. It’s a classic example of hoodoo formation, showcasing the power of natural forces shaping the Bryce Canyon landscape.

Agua Canyon

The Agua Canyon viewpoint overlooks a vast array of hoodoos and spires, with two particularly notable formations: the taller “Hunter” and the shorter “Rabbit,” each telling a story of natural artistry and erosion. The colors at Agua Canyon are vivid and varied, with shades of red, orange, and white rock layers creating a visually stunning landscape. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of Bryce Canyon.

Ponderosa Canyon

Ponderosa Canyon in Bryce Canyon National Park is a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing area. Named for the towering Ponderosa pines along its rim, this canyon offers a distinct and tranquil landscape. You are greeted with a vista of steep, multicolored cliffs and spires that descend into a depth where the namesake Ponderosa pines thrive.

The viewpoint for Ponderosa Canyon, accessible along the scenic drive of Bryce Canyon Road, provides a serene atmosphere, different from the more crowded areas of the park. It’s an excellent spot for observing the subtle interplay of light and shadow that dances across the canyon walls, enhancing the array of red, orange, and white hues.

Rainbow Point

Rainbow Point, situated at the southernmost end of Bryce Canyon National Park, is also the highest viewpoint in the park at an elevation of over 9,100 feet. This vantage point offers expansive views of the entire park and beyond. You will see the beautiful Pink Cliffs out of which the hoodoos were carved. Additionally, the Bristlecone Loop Trail, starting from Rainbow Point, takes you through ancient bristlecone pine forests, some of the oldest trees in the world.

Yovimpa Point

Yovimpa Point, located near Rainbow Point, provides a clear view of the Grand Staircase, a sequence of rock layers that descend southward towards the Grand Canyon. Each distinct layer represents millions of years of geological history. From Yovimpa Point, you can gaze out over a vast expanse of colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and distant mountains. The area is also known for its serene beauty at sunrise or sunset when the light accentuates on the layers and textures of the landscape.

Mossy Cave

When you exit the Bryce Canyon National Park the next day, Mossy Cave located in the northern section of the park is worth a stop. It offers a unique and tranquil experience distinct from the park’s main amphitheater. Mossy Cave is more of an overhanging rock alcove than a traditional cave. The short trail to Mossy Cave meanders alongside the Tropic Ditch, a stream that flows through a serene canyon landscape dotted with hoodoos. Additionally, you will encounter a few small waterfalls and a footbridge. It’s a peaceful retreat providing a different perspective on Bryce Canyon’s diverse natural beauty.

Tips for Visiting Bryce Canyon

• Altitude Awareness: Bryce Canyon is a high altitude park, ranging from 8,000 to over 9,000 feet. You should be prepared for altitude sickness and adjust your hiking plans accordingly​​.
• Climate Considerations: The park’s weather can be cooler than surrounding areas due to its elevation. You will need winter clothes for sunrise and sunset even during summertime. On the other hand, it can be warm during the day when it’s sunny. So it’s crucial to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.