Bryce Canyon is beautiful throughout the year, but we especially love it in winter. The orange hoodoos against the white snow are something special.
You don’t need to take a long hike to enjoy the park. Several overlooks offer beautiful views close to the road. If you have time, stay for sunrise or sunset to see how the light changes the colors of the rocks.
Before heading out on a hike, stop at Sunrise Point and Sunset Point. Both are a short drive from the visitor center. If you can, come back early or late in the day when the low light brings out the orange and pink in the hoodoos.
Thors Hammer
It’s a rock formation, rather than the name of a hike. You can see it from the Rim Trail near Sunset Point without hiking the Navajo Loop.
Queens Garden
The Queen’s Garden Trail is 1.8 miles round trip from Sunrise Point. You will walk down among the orange hoodoos, with a climb back up to the rim on the way out. It felt longer to us in winter, but seeing the hoodoos dusted with snow made it worth the effort.
Natural Bridge
You can see Natural Bridge from the overlook, making it an easy stop along the scenic drive. No needed to hike.
Spring and Summer
Without the snow, the shapes and layers of the orange hoodoos stand out even more.
Winter
We love this orange with white snow and during sunrise light is amazing. Check the forecast, dress warmly and allow time to enjoy the sunrise. We had – 29 F but still made it.
A few tips for visiting Bryce Canyon
- Short on time? Start with Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, then stop at Natural Bridge along the scenic drive.
- Want to hike among the hoodoos? Take the Queen’s Garden Trail and leave yourself time for the climb back up to the rim.
- Visiting in winter? Check trail and road conditions before you go. Bring warm layers, especially if you are heading out before sunrise, and pack traction for icy trails.
It was freezing when we went out for sunrise, but watching the first light hit the orange hoodoos with snow all around them was our favorite part of the visit. If you are there in winter, we would get up early for it.
Where to stay near Bryce Canyon
Ruby’s Inn is just outside the park entrance, so it is a handy place to stay if you want to catch sunrise. If you are visiting between April and October, check the schedule at Ebenezer’s Barn & Grill across the street for barbecue and live country music.
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