Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Bryce Canyon National Park
Q:Where is Bryce Canyon located?
A:Bryce Canyon is located in south-central Utah.
Q:What is Bryce Canyon like?
A:Bryce Canyon consists of thousands of delicately carved spires that rise in brilliant color from the amphitheaters of Bryce Canyon National Park. Here, in a gathering of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters, soft rock layers have worn away over millions of years, sculpted by wind and water into bizarre shapes called “hoo-doos.” Technically Bryce Canyon is no canyon at all; rather these amphitheaters have created the illusion of wonderful canyons that amaze and mystify the visitor.
Q:What are some popular activities at Bryce Canyon?
A:Popular activities include horseback riding, air tours, and day hiking. In wintertime, hardy souls can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Q:What is the weather like in Bryce Canyon?
A:The average high in January is 34 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average high in July (the warmest month) is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Because it is located in a dessert climate you should prepare for cold nights, even during the hot summer seasons as temperatures drop as much as 30 degrees after the sun goes down.
Q:How are the arches and bridge of Bryce Canyon formed?
A:Bridges form through the erosion of rock by streams or rivers. Windows or arches form from a combination of processes. Frost wedging, the expanding of cracks in rock as water turns to ice, weaken the rock to form an arch.
Q:What is the recommended stay duration?
A:Minimalist (2 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: ½ Day
Hiking/Exploring: ½ Day – 1 Day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: ½ Day
Adventurist (3 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: 1 Day
Hiking/Exploring: 1 Day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 Day
Notes: Free naturalist-led activities in the summer; nature walks, history and geology talks, evening programs, night sky programs, moonlight walks. Also hiking and guided trail rides into the canyon are a must. You should make time in the early morning to watch the sunrise from Bryce Point, it is a spectacular scene to behold. In the winter cross country skiing and snow-shoeing is available.