Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah, United States. Known for its stunning crimson-colored hoodoos—unique spire-shaped rock formations—Bryce Canyon lies near the towns of Bryce and Tropic, with the closest city being Panguitch, about 24 miles to the northeast. The park is perched at the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, offering breathtaking views of its dramatic amphitheaters. The park was established on February 25, 1928, though it had been protected as a national monument since 1923. The canyon is named after Ebenezer Bryce, a 19th-century settler who homesteaded in the area. Over millions of years, the natural erosion of the plateau by wind, water, and ice has created the hoodoos that draw visitors from around the world. Parking is available at various points throughout Bryce Canyon, with the main parking areas located near the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, and Inspiration Point. The park has implemented a shuttle system during the busy season, which is encouraged to reduce congestion. There is a $35 vehicle entrance fee, and the shuttle system is free for all visitors. Bryce Canyon’s wildlife includes mule deer, mountain lions, and pronghorns, as well as smaller mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. The park is also a prime location for birdwatching, with species such as the peregrine falcon, raven, and western bluebird frequently seen. The park’s flora varies with elevation, with ponderosa pines and Douglas firs in the higher areas, and pinyon pines, junipers, and desert plants in the lower regions. Wildflowers, including columbine and lupine, bloom seasonally. Notable landmarks include Bryce Amphitheater, with its vast array of hoodoos, and Rainbow Point, the highest point in the park. Public transportation to Bryce Canyon is limited, but a shuttle service operates within the park and connects to nearby towns during peak seasons, making exploration more convenient.