Getting around Bryce Canyon National Park is easy and offers several options depending on your preferences. Here’s a guide to the best ways to navigate the park:
1. Bryce Canyon Shuttle System
The park operates a free shuttle service to reduce traffic and protect the environment, especially during the peak tourist season. The shuttle runs from April through late October and provides service to key viewpoints and trailheads in the Bryce Amphitheater area.
- Route: The shuttle serves major stops such as Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point.
- Schedule: The shuttle typically runs from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (with extended hours in summer).
- Accessibility: The shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible and accommodate bikes.
- Benefit: It’s a convenient way to get around, particularly during the busy summer months when parking near the viewpoints can be limited.
2. Driving Your Own Vehicle
While the shuttle is the preferred mode of transport for accessing the Bryce Amphitheater, visitors can still drive their own vehicles along the Southern Scenic Drive, which is an 18-mile road offering access to several viewpoints, including Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point.
- Parking: Parking is available at various points along the scenic drive, and you can park your vehicle to explore the viewpoints.
- Tip: Starting at Rainbow Point and driving back northward is ideal to avoid crossing traffic when stopping at viewpoints.
3. Biking
Bryce Canyon offers a variety of biking opportunities, especially along the paved Rim Trail and Scenic Drive. The park allows bicycles on most paved roads and trails.
- Bike Racks: Shuttle buses are equipped with bike racks, allowing you to combine biking and shuttle rides to access different parts of the park.
- Bike Rentals: If you don’t have your own bike, rentals are available in nearby Bryce Canyon City.
4. Hiking
Bryce Canyon is famous for its extensive trail network, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The most popular trails in the Bryce Amphitheater area, like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail, are easily accessible from the shuttle stops.
- Trailheads: Many of the park's scenic viewpoints are accessible via short hikes or walks.
- Longer Trails: For those wanting to explore more, trails like the Peek-A-Boo Loop and Fairyland Loop offer a deeper dive into the park’s unique landscape.
5. Parking
- Parking Availability: There are several parking lots throughout the park, including near the Visitor Center and key viewpoints. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- First-Come, First-Served: Most parking lots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Using the shuttle system can be more convenient, especially during busy times.
6. Additional Tips
- Arrival Time: If you’re driving your own vehicle, it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking.
- Weather Preparedness: The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations and be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
- Pet Policies: Pets are not allowed on shuttle buses, and they are only permitted on certain trails (e.g., the Mossy Cave Trail). Always check park regulations before bringing your pet.
By utilizing a combination of the shuttle system, driving, biking, and hiking, visitors can comfortably explore all that Bryce Canyon has to offer.
