Bryce Canyon National Park sits in a remarkable area of southern Utah a few hours northeast of Las Vegas. The 56 square mile park is a firm favorite, receiving in excess of a million visitors a year.
The park traverses three climatic zones across 2,000 feet of elevation and is home to numerous species of birds, animals and plants. It also boasts some remarkable hiking territory and viewpoints, the most notable of which are the Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, along the Rim Trail and Bryce Point.
The hiking is the real appeal of a visit, with several established trails over varying lengths and strenuousness. One of the main ones is the 11-mile-long Rim Trail, which comes with some of the best views along the cliff edge between Fairyland Point and Bryce Point. A short walk to Mossy Cave and back is also nice.
There is some accommodation in Bryce Canyon National Park in the form of campgrounds and lodges. Bryce Canyon Lodge has the best eating, while the visitor center is good for souvenirs and knickknacks.
Getting there
Although there is a small airport nearby - Bryce Canyon Airport – it is not for commercial traffic. The closest useful airport is in St George, which is about halfway from Vegas, so you’re better off traveling overland. The best option is to hire a car and drive northeast via Interstate 15 as far as Cedar City, from where highways 14, 89, and 12 lead to the park. It takes around four or five hours from Las Vegas.
In brief
What is it? A prominent national park in southern Utah.
** When to go?** April through October for the mildest weather.
Nearest town: Cedar City, about 50 miles to the west.
Distance from Las Vegas: 200 miles to the northeast.
Don’t miss: the views of the canyon amphitheater from Bryce Point.
Trivia: Bryce Canyon was designated a National Monument in 1923 and received national park status in 1928.