When we think of Bryce Canyon National Park, its stunning rock formations and quiet trails come to mind. But to truly enjoy this adventure, knowing the practical stuff—where to stay, what to eat, and how much it will cost—is key.
Let’s walk through these details step by step, so our trip can be smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
Park Location and Basic Info
Bryce Canyon National Park sits on the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southwestern Utah. It covers about 145 square kilometers, with colorful hoodoos rising at elevations from 2,400 to 2,700 meters (7,900 to 9,000 feet). The closest towns, Tropic and Panguitch, offer some lodging and dining options.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
The park is open 24/7 year-round, but visitor centers and facilities usually run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days. For motorcycles, it’s $30, and individual visitors on foot or bike pay $20 each.
If we plan on visiting other national parks within a year, buying the $80 America the Beautiful Annual Pass is a smart money saver.
Getting There and Getting Around
Most travelers arrive by car. Bryce Canyon is roughly 3.5 hours from Las Vegas and 5 hours from Salt Lake City. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
Inside the park, a free shuttle bus runs from mid-May to mid-September, connecting main viewpoints like Sunrise Point and Bryce Point, making travel easier when crowds peak.
Where to Stay: Options for Every Budget
We have several accommodation choices both inside and near the park:
Inside the Park:
- Bryce Canyon Lodge: The only lodge inside the park, with rustic cabins and rooms. Prices range from about $150 to $250 per night, depending on the season. Booking early is essential, especially for summer.
Nearby Towns:
- Tropic: Small motels and inns with rooms from $80 to $130 per night.
- Panguitch: Offers more dining and lodging options, with hotels and B&Bs ranging from $90 to $150 per night.
- Bryce Canyon City: A few motels and vacation rentals available, around $100 to $180 per night.
Camping:
- North Campground: Located inside the park, offers around 99 sites at roughly $20-$30 per night. Sites open from late spring to fall.
- Ruby’s Inn Campground: Just outside the park, with full hookups for RVs and tent sites starting around $30 per night.
Where to Eat: Dining Choices
Inside the park, dining options are limited but convenient:
- Bryce Canyon Lodge Dining Room: Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with American-style meals. Prices range from $10 for breakfast items to $20-$30 for dinner entrees.
- Valhalla Pizzeria & Coffee Shop (Seasonal – Summer Only): offers wood-fired pizza, salads, coffee, and pastries. Price Range: $12–$20 per pizza.
- General Store: Offers snacks, sandwiches, and drinks.
Nearby towns have more variety:
- Tropic and Bryce Canyon City have diners, cafes, and fast food with meals costing $10-$20 per person.
- Panguitch has some family restaurants and local eateries with similar price ranges.
For those camping or staying in cabins with kitchens, grocery stores in nearby towns can supply basics.
Top Activities and Suggested Costs
Most park activities are free after entrance:
- Hiking and sightseeing cost nothing.
- Guided ranger programs and evening astronomy talks are usually free but can require advance signup.
- Some private tour companies offer jeep tours from $50 to $150 per person.
- Renting bikes or snowshoes nearby may cost $30-$60 per day.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is May to October for pleasant weather and fully open trails. Summer sees more visitors, so booking accommodations and shuttle spots early is smart.
Winter offers stunning snowy views and cross-country skiing but requires warm clothes and driving caution.
Other tips:
- Carry layered clothing for temperature changes.
- Drink plenty of water and bring sun protection.
- Use the free shuttle in busy months to avoid parking struggles.
- Respect wildlife and stick to marked trails.
- Book lodging well in advance during peak season.
Let’s Make Bryce Canyon Unforgettable
Bryce Canyon National Park combines jaw-dropping natural beauty with cozy accommodations and tasty food options nearby. By knowing exactly where to stay, how to get around, and what to expect cost-wise, we set ourselves up for a smooth trip full of amazing memories. Let’s get ready to walk among those magical hoodoos, breathe in fresh mountain air, and enjoy some of the best views in the U.S. See you at Bryce Canyon!
BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK, UTAH | Best Things To Do In Bryce + Travel Tips
Video by World Wild Hearts
