Utah is home to the “mighty five” better known as the five national parks. Despite being the smallest of the five, Bryce Canyon National Park located in southwestern Utah is one of the most extraordinary parks to visit. Visually spectacular, the park has the largest collection of hoodoos- tall, thin, spiral rock formations left from erosion. The pillars of rock are distinct in the red and orange sandstone. The most visited section of the park is the amphitheater, where viewing of the hoodoos from a distance can be done via the rim trail or for a closer viewpoint, via the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop trails. When visiting Utah, make it a point to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park even if only for a day. This post will help provide how to best spend one day!
Where To Stay Near Bryce Canyon
I elected to stay one night near Bryce Canyon National Park to make use of the full day. However, it is very common for visitors to see Bryce Canyon in a half of a day before continuing on to one of the larger parks.
–Happy Trails BnB
Conveniently located in Tropic Utah, five miles from the park entrance. The BnB was very affordable and perfect for one night after a fun day of exploring. The BnB offers newly updated rooms, free Wi-Fi, ac, tv, an outdoor seating area, a shared common area and an American breakfast in the morning. Breakfast is not to be missed, the signature 7up pancakes and apple cider syrup with breakfast casserole was delightful.
-Stone Canyon Inn
Located in Tropic Utah, bringing luxury accommodations to the area with secluded cabins, bungalows, tree houses, and deluxe king rooms. I did not stay here but I did dine at the Inn’s restaurant and got a sneak peek of just how beautiful the Inn is inside.
Where To Eat Near Bryce Canyon
Ruby’s Inn General Store is a great place to stock up on water, snacks and sandwiches. Staying hydrated and well fed throughout a national park is imperative. To ensure I wasn’t pressed for time in the park, I opted to pack a picnic lunch and found a great bench alongside sunrise point.
The Lodge at Bryce Canyon Restaurant is the only restaurant located within the park. Known for its grand stone fireplace and seating up to 180 people, the lodge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner on a first come first serve basis.
The Pizza Place located in Tropic, offers specialty pizzas made from homemade dough, burgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts, beer and wine. Enjoy a meal in the newly renovated indoor space or on the outdoor patio.
Stone Hearth Grille was an addition to the Stone Canyon Inn and provides fresh, natural, delicious food to the property and Tropic area. The restaurant only offered outdoor dining when I visited (due to Covid), which was beautifully situated on an outdoor patio beneath a pergola for amazing sunset views. The food was quite simply AMAZING! I had the filet with tarragon butter, and it was one of the top three steaks I have ever eaten, super fresh and flavorful.
Old Bryce Town Ice Cream located in the center of town, across the street from Best Western Ruby’s Inn was the perfect afternoon snack after a warm day of hiking. If you have never had huckleberry ice cream before, make sure to try it!
Things To Do In Bryce Canyon
Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop Trail is a heavily trafficked 3-mile loop trail rated as moderate. Starting at sunrise point, I hiked the loop in a counterclockwise direction. These trails bring you past rock formations known as Thor’s Hammer, Two Bridges (if you stay on Navajo Loop), and the only slot canyon in Bryce Canyon (if you take Wall Street). The Queen’s Garden trail is direct sun which can make for a hot day, therefore it’s best to start early.
Sunrise Point to Sunset Point is a heavily trafficked 1 mile out and back trail rated as easy. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it a great option for those less thrill seeking. The trail runs along the amphitheater, providing gorgeous views of the red and orange hoodoos.
Bristlecone Loop Trail is a heavily trafficked 1-mile loop trail rated as easy. This trail is accessible at the Rainbow Point. Rainbow Point is one of thirteen lookout points that can be reached by car and is one of two highest points in the park. The loop is home to woodpeckers, owls and ravens so be on the lookout!
Canyon Viewpoints are designated by thirteen major locations. Fairyland Point, Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point are the most popular locations as they can be reached by using the parks shuttle system or by walking the rim trail. The remaining lookout points are only accessible by car but provide great views without having to hike. Stop at the Natural Bridge!
