Explore Bryce Canyon National Park.

Looking for the best resources to help plan your Bryce Canyon National Park vacation?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to this incredible national park in the heart of Utah.

Whether you need to know where to purchase baby formula near the park or which trail is best for your kids, you’ll find it here.

I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Bryce Canyon at a glance

  • Covers 35,000 acres

  • Located in Utah

  • One of the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks

  • Best known for its brightly colored hoodoos

  • Located on the Paunsaugunt Plateau

  • Has biking trail, free shuttle system, and excellent hiking

Start here.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park with Kids

If you only read one of my Bryce Canyon guides, make it this one.

This Bryce Canyon National Parks with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from where to stay to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.

Complete Itineraries

All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.

1 Day in Bryce Canyon National Park Itinerary

Take a ride.

See more of Bryce Canyon National Park and less of the parking lots when you take the free seasonal shuttle bus.

Serving the main amphitheatre area, Bryce Canyon City, and the visitors center, the buses will even bring along your bikes for the ultimate in car-free exploration.

A Complete Guide to the Bryce Canyon Shuttle System

Kid-Friendly Activities

  • Mossy Cave Trail in Bryce Canyon: A Hiking Guide

    A desert waterfall and quick cave visit are perfect for families!

    Read more

  • Biking in Bryce Canyon National Park

    Everything you need to know to explore the park by bike

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  • ATV Rentals near Bryce Canyon: A Guide

    One of the BEST ways to get away from the crowds

    Read more

  • 18 Best Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon

    The fun doesn’t stop when you leave the national park. Here are lakes, historic spots, state parks, and more to explore nearby.

    Read more

Camping

While Bryce Canyon National Park does have campgrounds inside the property, we enjoyed staying just outside of Bryce Canyon City.

Doing so allowed us to get full hook-ups for our camper for a very reasonable price, and put us within easy driving distance of everything this area has to offer.

Bryce Canyon R Journey Campground Review

Bryce Canyon National Park Must Haves

  • GuideAlong Audio Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks bundle to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    To truly experience the beauty of Bryce Canyon, you’ll want to make sure that everyone in your family has the proper footwear.

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting Bryce Canyon in the summer.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to any of the Utah Mighty Five national parks without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    This area of Utah doesn’t always have great cell reception, but you can always reach help with this unit.

  • Rental Car

    While there is public transportation within portions of Bryce Canyon National Park, you’re going to want the flexibility of your own vehicle to explore the Southern Scenic Route in the park and points of interest beyond.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports.

  • Travel Insurance

    Visiting the national parks can be the trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.

    Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.

Other Helpful Resources

  • Best RV Camping at the Utah National Parks: A Guide

    Read more

  • Utah Mighty Five National Parks with Kids: Itinerary.and Guide

    Read more

  • The Ultimate Utah to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

    Read more

  • Zion vs. Bryce Canyon: Which National Park Should You Visit?

    Read more