USA – Bryce Canyon is a must-see place in Utah

Bryce Canyon, located in southern Utah, is one of the most interesting National Parks in the USA, and despite its tiny size, it can offer a lot. Bryce Canyon is surprisingly not a canyon at all; it is rather a gallery of natural amphitheatres. Frost and tough wind conditions have created a unique area filled with strange rock formations.

The main sights of Bryce Canyon National Park are rock towers, also known as “Hoodoos.” These strange formations were created millions of years ago. They were made by water, which penetrated the cracks of the rocks where it froze. The ice expanded, made the cracks bigger and created the unique sandstone formations we admire nowadays. This process constantly forms and changes the landscape of Bryce Canyon. The towers are dark red, sometimes orange, pink or even white.

Inside Bryce Canyon on the Navajo Loop Trail, the rocks look very majestically

It is said that the right tourist should visit Bryce Canyon at least twice. In summer, the sun rests on the reddish towers, contrasting with green conifers, some of which are thousands of years old. And then in winter, the contrast is even stronger, thanks to white pillows of snow. No matter which season you choose, you cannot make a mistake. So that‘s why it is one of the most Instagrammable places in the US. Bryce Canyon always looks a little bit different but always unbelievably beautiful. Even though the landscape might look uninhabitable, the truth is, there are many different kinds of animals living there, and if you are lucky, you may see a black bear.

You can find there cute squirrels, which will almost eat from your hand

Where it is and how to get there

Bryce Canyon is located in the south-western part of Utah. It is a great place to escape into nature in driving distance between Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. It is a good idea to rent a car (compare the prices here: Skysnanner.net or RentalCars.com) and take a day trip to Bryce Canyon. Don’t forget to also visit the stunning valleys in Zion National Park on the way.

A view of the beautiful landscape around Bryce Canyon

Camping in Bryce Canyon

Just like all other activities in Bryce Canyon, camping is a unique experience. Observing the night sky full of stars, undisturbed by the lights of civilization, or awakening to the pink sunrise is an unforgettable experience. There are two campsites, a southern camp and a northern camp, with water areas and a car park. The camps are very popular, and it is wise to book a place in advance, as they are often full.

For those who do not want to camp, we recommend motel Rodeway Inn (Booking.com | HotelsCombined.com), a short distance from Bryce Canyon NP.

Top walking trails in Bryce Canyon 

Hiking is also popular in Bryce Canyon. Many trails, such as The Mossy Cave Trail or Bristlecone Loop Trail, are great for beginners or families. They are neither long nor too demanding and let you see the best of Bryce Canyon. There are other trails in the park, which vary in difficulty, such as the Navajo route and the Peekaboo route; it is up to you which difficulty suits you best.

Some hoodoos has a special shape

The Riggs Spring Trail and Under The Rim Trail are great for long hikes, up to 40 km of beautiful nature, perfect for a day trip. Under The Rim Trail can be, in its longest form, a three-day hiking trip and probably the most demanding one. If you like adventure, then this trail is exactly what you are looking for. If you don’t feel like walking the whole route, you can choose one of its shorter options, or you can advise in the visitors’ centre.

View from the famous Inspiration Point of the Bryce Canyon

Stargazing is one of the most interesting places in the area. It is known as “the last great sanctuary of natural light,” among other things, due to high air quality and altitude. It’s the perfect place to watch the clouds in the daytime or the charming starry sky at night. You will see thousands of stars from here, and even the Milky Way can be seen very well from there.

With a high altitude of up to 2 500 meters above sea level, you can also enjoy various winter activities, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoe tours, something you would never have expected in the Utah Desert!

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