Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a breathtaking destination known for its unique geological formations, including hoodoos, natural amphitheaters, and otherworldly rock spires. The park’s dramatic landscape is the result of millions of years of erosion, creating a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, stargazing, and ranger-led programs. Bryce Canyon is my favorite National park, so we visited it many times. Here are the best 5 hike you can do in Bryce National Park.
How to get to Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah and the easiest and the most common way to get to Bryce Canyon National Park is by car. The park is located just off of Highway 12, which connects to several major highways including I-15 and US-89. If you are coming from the north, take I-15 south to exit 95, then follow Highway 20 east to Highway 89. Turn right on Highway 89 and follow it south to Highway 12, then turn left and follow the signs to the park. If you are coming from the south, take I-15 north to exit 16, then follow Highway 9 east to Highway 89, then turn north and follow it to Highway 12, then turn right and follow the signs to the park.
What are “hoodoos”?
Hoodoos are tall, thin spires of rock that are typically found in desert areas with soft sedimentary rock formations. They are created over millions of years as wind and water erode the softer rock layers, leaving behind the harder, more resistant rock layers in a unique and often intricate formation. Hoodoos can vary in size, shape, and color, and are often found in clusters or groups, creating a surreal landscape that is both beautiful and otherworldly. Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its abundance of hoodoos, making it a popular destination for visitors who want to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of these unique rock formations.
5 best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park
Navajo Loop Trail
This is one of the park’s most popular trails, offering stunning views of the hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock) and the canyon. The trail is 1.3 miles long and is considered moderately difficult.
Queen’s Garden Trail
This trail takes you down into the canyon, offering spectacular views of the hoodoos up close. It’s a 1.8-mile round trip and is rated as moderately difficult.
Fairyland Loop Trail
This trail is a bit longer and more strenuous, at 8 miles round trip. It takes you through a lesser-visited area of the park, offering views of hoodoos, spires, and other unique rock formations.
Peekaboo Loop Trail
This trail offers stunning views of Bryce Amphitheater and takes you through narrow slot canyons and past towering rock formations. It’s a 5.5-mile loop and is rated as moderately difficult.
Rim Trail
This trail runs along the top of the canyon, offering sweeping views of the park’s unique landscape. The trail is 5.5 miles long and is rated as easy, making it a great option for families with young children or those looking for a leisurely hike.
