Best Time to Visit
At the risk of sounding like the local visitorâs bureau rather than a travel writer with something valuable to tell you, any time is a good time to visit Bryce. Summer is warm, and sometimes rainy. Winter air is clear, and the canyon wears a coating of white snow. Spring brings wildflowers, and fall coaxes gold from the aspens to complement the red rocks.
The park is open year-round, but some of the roads may be closed during snow, and the Fairyland Road is not plowed in winter.
Where to Sleep and Eat
The Bryce Canyon Lodge is open April through November. There are a few small motels outside the park, but Ruby's Inn is the most common stopping place for Bryce visitors. With a campground, motel complex, laundromat, swimming pool, restaurant and western town attraction, Ruby's offers something for everyone. Their store carries groceries and a good selection of camping and hiking supplies, and you can get anything from a postcard to collector's-quality pottery in their shops.For campers, the park has two campgrounds. Nearby Dixie National Forest also offers Pine Lake, King Creek and Red Canyon campgrounds.
Summer thunderstorms are common at Bryce. If you're caught in one, stay in your vehicle if you can. If you're outside, lightning tends to strike the highest point, so stay away from isolated trees and open areas.
Saving Money at Bryce Canyon
Use these tips to help reduce the cost of your Bryce Canyon visit:- Make easy breakfasts and lunches from items purchased at a grocery store, and stock up on groceries in bigger towns where they are less expensive.
- If you are visiting several national parks during your trip, and expect to spend more than $50 in entry fees, buy an unlimited National Park Pass. You can also get a reduced admission fee at Bryce Canyon by using the shuttle instead of driving into the park (mid-May through September).
- Camping is cheaper than hotels. The least expensive camping in the Bryce Canyon area is in the Dixie National Forest, where camping is free (albeit lacking in amenities).
- Take advantage of ranger-led hikes and interpretive programs instead of paying a tour company.
Many thanks to The World Outdoors for their assistance in preparing this article
