Bryce Canyon vs. Zion National Park Comparison [Includes Sample Itinerary]

Let’s dig into the comparison between Bryce Canyon vs. Zion National Park!

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, I highly recommend adding a day trip to Bryce Canyon to your itinerary.

It is 100% worth the 1.5 to 2 hour drive, and you can still experience a lot of Bryce Canyon in just one day.

In this post, I will compare the differences between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, highlight the best hiking trails in both Bryce Canyon & Zion, provide a sample itinerary for visiting both of the parks, and so much more information you will want to know!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I will get a commission if you decide to purchase through those links, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Bryce Canyon vs. Zion National Park

Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park are both located in southern Utah, sharing similarities while also offering different experiences – both worth visiting!

Both parks feature stunning landscapes and a plethora of exciting hiking opportunities.

Bryce Canyon’s main feature is its unique hoodoos—tall, spire-shaped rock formations—creating an environment that truly feels out of this world 😍.

On the other hand, Zion is well-known for its deep canyons and towering cliffs, that were shaped by the Virgin River.

Size

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is significantly smaller in size compared to Zion, covering approximately 35,835 acres.

This makes visiting Bryce Canyon as a day trip from Zion National Park very doable due to its smaller size!

Zion National Park

Zion covers approximately 146,597 acres, making it around 4x bigger than Bryce Canyon.

To put this in perspective, Zion falls on the smaller end of the spectrum compared to the larger national parks. For example, Yellowstone National Park covers 2,221,766 acres -making Yellowstone approximately 15x larger than Zion! 😲

Crowds

Bryce Canyon National Park

While Bryce Canyon is a popular destination, it generally sees significantly less visitors compared to Zion National Park.

In 2023, Bryce Canyon received 2,461,269 visitors.

You will definitely notice that Bryce Canyon is significantly less crowded than Zion but that doesn’t mean there still won’t be crowds during peak times.

Zion National Park

Zion is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and therefore, experiences very large crowds, especially during peak seasons. 

In 2023, Zion received 4,623,238 visitors!

This results in limited parking and long shuttle lines especially during the peak summer season when people flock here for summer vacation.

Don’t let the crowds discourage you from visiting Zion during the summer though if that is your only option!

You can try to avoid the peak crowds in the summer by getting into the park early in the morning, taking a break in the afternoon, and returning in the evening.

Entrance Cost

Bryce Canyon: $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass

Zion National Park: $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass

If you plan to visit both Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park during your trip, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. It costs $80 and grants access to all national parks for an entire year.

I would definitely get it if you’re planning to visit any other national parks throughout the year or if you are planning to hit all of Utah’s Mighty 5 during your trip.

Are you planning a Southwest National Parks road trip? If so, be sure to check out my blog post about the National Parks in the Southwest!

Parking/Transportation

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park has several different parking lots at popular viewpoints where you are able to park your vehicle. Check out their website for all of the parking information.

Unlike Zion National Park, you’re able to drive inside the park year-round.

Due to limited # of spaces, these parking lots can fill up fast, especially during peak season, which can make finding a parking spot difficult.

If you’re not wanting to worry about parking, there is a Bryce Canyon shuttle that is free to use with your park entrance pass. Be sure to have the physical park pass with you when you’re boarding the shuttle to show the driver.

The shuttle will bring you close to all of the popular trailheads throughout the park.

The Bryce Canyon Shuttle operates from April to October. Check out the shuttle schedule here.

No reservations are required for the Bryce Canyon Shuttle either.

Zion National Park

In Zion National Park, private vehicles are allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive only during certain times of the year. While at other times, they’re not allowed, and you’re required to use the park’s shuttle system.

From approximately March to late November, private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the main road through Zion Canyon, when the shuttle is operating.

During this period, you’re required to use the shuttle system called the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

The Zion Canyon Shuttle is free to use (park pass still required) and no reservations are needed.

You can park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and then board the shuttle from there to get to the popular stops and trailheads.

The parking at the visitor center does fill up quickly, especially during peak times. I recommend getting there early (before 7:00 am – maybe even earlier during the summer).

If there is no parking at the visitor center, you can park in Springdale and take the free Springdale shuttle to the visitor center, where you will then board the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

During the winter months, typically from late October to early April, you are allowed to drive your private vehicle on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

The shuttle system is not operating during this time, allowing you to drive your vehicle directly into Zion Canyon and get to the trailheads.

Check out their website for more detailed information about parking and the Zion Canyon shuttle.

Weather

Bryce Canyon National Park

Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). The weather tends to be more variable during this time with occasional rain showers and even snowfall at higher elevations.

Summer (June to August): Summer is very warm during the day, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon. During the summer, I always like to visit during the early mornings and late evenings to avoid the hot temperatures and crowds!

Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). The nights begin to get cooler as well and occasional snow showers may occur in late fall.

Winter (December to February): Winter is cold and snowy in Bryce Canyon, with daytime highs ranging from 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, and the park can receive significant snowfall.

Since Bryce Canyon is located at a higher elevation (8,000 to 9,000 feet) than Zion, the weather tends to be cooler in Bryce compared to Zion.

Zion National Park

Spring (March to May): Spring in Zion brings mild temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Nights can still be cool, especially in early spring. 

Summer (June to August): Summer is extremely hot in Zion, with daytime highs ranging from 90°F to 100°F (32°C to 38°C). Temperatures can be even hotter in the canyon, and there is a likely chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.

Similarly, for Bryce Canyon, I recommend going into the park early in the morning, taking a break during the afternoon, and returning in the evening. This helps you avoid the extreme heat and the crowds, allowing for you to have a more pleasant experience.

Fall (September to November): Fall brings more pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) in September and cooling down to 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) by November.

We visited Zion National Park during the first week of October, and the weather was perfect – warm during the day and cool at night!

Winter (December to February): Winter in Zion is much milder compared to Bryce Canyon, with daytime highs ranging from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C). Snowfall is possible, especially at higher elevations, but it typically melts quickly in the lower elevations of the canyon.

When to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park?

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a fantastic time to visit Bryce Canyon!

The weather is mild and wildflowers start to bloom throughout the park. 

The trails tend to be less crowded compared to the summer months, and you get to enjoy cooler temperatures while hiking which is a major plus 🙌.

Beware that crowds could pick up in late March and early April when schools are on spring break.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular time to visit Bryce Canyon due to the warmer weather and longer daylight hours.

It tends to be the most crowded in the summer due to people going on vacation here for summer break.

The crowds are nothing compared to Zion National Park but still do expect crowds at popular viewpoints and trails. You can beat these crowds by getting to the park early which I always recommend!

Early morning and late afternoon/early evening are the best times to avoid the crowds and heat.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is another excellent time to visit Bryce Canyon!

The weather is cooler, and the park’s foliage starts to change colors.

Crowds also begin to thin out compared to the summer months, making it an ideal time for hiking.

Crowds could pick up during the 1st and 2nd week of October due to schools being on fall break.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings a more quiet atmosphere to Bryce Canyon with significantly less crowds. 

While some facilities may close, the park’s hoodoos covered in snow make for a unique and beautiful sight! 

Due to Bryce Canyon being located at a higher elevation, do expect some snow-covered and icy trails. Depending on when you’re visiting, snow boots & crampons might be necessary to complete some hikes.

When to Visit Zion National Park?

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a popular time to visit Zion for its milder temperatures. 

The Zion Canyon Shuttle system begins operating in early spring (March), making it easier to explore the park without worrying about parking inside the park.

However, if you’re planning on hiking the Narrows, keep in mind that it may be closed at times during the spring due to high flow rates, making it too dangerous to hike. Check out more information here.

The water levels tend to be higher during the spring due to the snow runoff.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the busiest time in Zion due to the warm weather, longer daylight hours, and summer vacations. 

Expect large crowds, especially in the main canyon area!

I suggest arriving at the park early— I’m talking 6:00 am 😴—for a morning hike. Coming to the park this early allows you to snag a parking spot and avoid the intense heat!

Consider taking a break for lunch either at your accommodations or in Springdale, and then return to the park in the late afternoon or evening for a second hike.

This allows you to avoid the peak daytime crowds as well as the extremely hot temperatures.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is one of the best times to visit Zion!

The weather brings more pleasant temperatures, and the crowds begin to taper off after Labor Day, making it an ideal time for hiking.

We visited Zion during the second week of October and loved it!

Winter (December to February)

Winter is much quieter in Zion, with significantly less crowds and cooler temperatures. 

While some trails may be icy or snow-covered at higher elevations, lower elevation trails in the main canyon area are usually accessible year-round. 

Be aware that if you’re wanting to hike Angel’s Landing during the winter, some sections of the trail may be icy or snow-covered due to its higher elevation. These conditions can make the hike too hazardous for most hikers.

Driving Distance from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon

The driving distance between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park is approximately 72 miles (116 kilometers) via UT-9 E and US-89 N. 

The estimated driving time is around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• The driving distance from the Zion National Park South Entrance to the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center is approximately 72 miles (116 kilometers) via UT-12 W and US-89 S.
• If you’re traveling from the Zion National Park East Entrance to Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, the driving distance is approximately 85 miles (137 kilometers) via UT-12 W, US-89 S, and UT-9 W.

You will most likely be coming from the Zion National Park South Entrance since that is the most popular one.

It is the entrance located in the town of Springdale and is the starting point for the Zion Canyon shuttle bus.

I found this blog post helpful in understanding the three different entrances into Zion National Park.

Be sure to check out my ultimate travel guide all about Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park if you’re interested in adding Antelope Canyon to your itinerary!

How Many Days in Bryce Canyon National Park Do You Need?

Personally, I think one to two days is perfect to experience Bryce Canyon National Park.

If you’re considering a day trip from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon, it’s entirely possible to do!

You can experience a lot of Bryce Canyon in one day due to its smaller size. It may require an early start and a busy schedule, but the experience is undoubtedly worth it!

How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon

If you’re short on time, you can still experience the highlights of Bryce Canyon in one day!

You can drive along the scenic Bryce Canyon Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point. 

You can also take a short hike along the rim trail or venture down into the canyon on the Navajo Loop Trail or Queens Garden Trail.

How to Spend Two Days in Bryce Canyon

With two days, you have more time to explore more of Bryce Canyon’s hiking trails and incredible viewpoints!

Consider hiking some of the longer trails such as the Fairyland Loop Trail or Peekaboo Loop Trail to explore more of Bryce Canyon.

How Many Days in Zion National Park Do You Need?

In my opinion, I recommend a minimum of 2 full days, preferably three days to experience Zion National Park.

If you’re wanting to see exactly what I did during my trip to Zion, check out my 5-Day Zion National Park Itinerary.

How to Spend One Day in Zion National Park

Even with just one day, you can see many of Zion’s iconic sights!

With only one day, I recommend hiking to Scout’s Landing and Angel’s Landing after that if you are able to obtain a permit.

Scout’s Landing is the area before Angel’s Landing starts – so no permit is needed to hike to Scout’s Landing. You will only need a permit after that if you want to continue on to the chains portion of Angel’s Landing.

If you’re wanting to do a second hike, I recommend the Emerald Pools trail or a casual evening stroll on the Par’us Trail (which is fully paved!).

How to Spend Two Days in Zion National Park

Two days gives you more time to explore all of the wonders of Zion National Park!

If you have two days in Zion National Park, I recommend dedicating a day to hiking the Narrows.

It took us around 4 hours to hike the Narrows. We hiked until we reached the Wall Street area and then turned back around.

You can make this hike as long or as short as you want it to be since you can just turn around when you’re ready. 

The Narrows is a pretty long and exhausting hike so I usually recommend just that hike for one day.

We did the Bottoms Up Narrows hike which you start from the Zion Canyon shuttle bus stop #9 Temple of Sinawava.

You can also hike the Narrows from the Top-Down, but I don’t recommend it unless you’re an avid hiker and looking for a challenge. A permit is required for hiking the Narrows this way.

It is a point-to-point hike covering a total of 16 miles – a long distance, especially when factoring in the additional challenge of wading through the water!

The Narrows Top-Down hike starts at the Chamberlain’s Ranch trailhead and ends at the Temple of Sinawava. It can be done as a very long day hike or a one-night backpacking trip.

How to Spend Three Days in Zion National Park

For your third day in Zion National Park, I recommend waking up early and viewing the sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook.

I recommend getting there around an hour before sunrise to secure parking and hike to the viewpoint which takes about 25 minutes.

Then, I recommend hiking the East Mesa trail to Observation Point (arguably the best viewpoint in Zion National Park!).

The Zion Canyon shuttle bus does not go to the East Mesa trail. The only way you can get there is either by driving your car to the trailhead (which I don’t recommend) or by taking the East Zion Adventures shuttle.

I do not recommend taking your own car as it could likely be damaged while driving up to the trailhead since the road is not in good condition.

Best Hiking Trails in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a variety of fun hiking trails that allow you to take in its stunning landscapes featuring its famous hoodoos and rock formations. 

Here a few of the best hiking trails in Bryce Canyon that you should add to your itinerary!

Navajo Loop Trail

• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Duration: 1 hour
• Elevation Gain: 515 feet

The Navajo Loop Trail is a very popular trail that brings you down into the canyon while you get amazing views of the hoodoos and other cool sights like Thor’s Hammer and Wall Street. 

Despite being short, the switchbacks you will encounter on this hike do make it moderately challenging.

As of 4/24/2024, the Wall Street section is closed due to a rock fall. It is projected to be back open starting after Memorial Day weekend. Check here for updates.

Queens Garden Trail

• Distance: 3.0 miles
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 652 feet

The Queens Garden Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through the hoodoos resembling figures such as Queen Victoria (hence its name!). 

It’s usually combined with the Navajo Loop Trail to make for a longer loop hike.

I recommend starting the trail from Sunset Point/Navajo Trail and ending at Sunrise Point/Queen’s Garden to avoid the steep switchbacks at the end of the hike.

Fairyland Loop Trail

• Distance: 7.9 miles
• Duration: 4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,555 feet

The Fairyland Loop Trail is a moderately strenuous hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the Bryce Amphitheater.

It is a great option if you’re looking for a longer day hike!

To make this hike easier, I recommend hiking it clockwise (opposite of the All Trails map). It does not involve as much elevation gain compared to going counter clockwise.

Peekaboo Loop Trail

• Distance: 5.2 miles
• Duration: 3 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,528 feet

The Peekaboo Loop Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike.

It is challenging due to the steep switchbacks, but don’t let that deter you, it is doable!

It takes you down into the Bryce Amphitheater allowing you to get up-close views of the amazing hoodoos and rock formations! 

Rim Trail

• Distance: 10.7 miles (out & back)
• Duration: Varies depending how far you go
• Elevation Gain: Varies depending how far you go

For an easier hike with incredible viewpoints, the Rim Trail follows the rim of the Bryce Amphitheater, offering great views of the canyon and hoodoos. 

It’s a relatively flat trail that stretches for approximately 5.5 miles one way, with multiple access points and shuttle stops along the way.

It is a kid-friendly hike, and you can easily turn back when you’re done or hop on the shuttle if you’re not wanting to do the entire trail.

Mossy Cave Turret Arch and Little Windows Trail

• Distance: 0.9 mile
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 121 feet

The Mossy Cave Trail is located in the northern area of Bryce Canyon.

It is a relatively short and easy trail that leads to a small waterfall, mossy cave, and windows arch. 

It’s a great hike with kids in Bryce Canyon as well!

Bristlecone Loop Trail

• Distance: 1 mile
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 88 feet

The Bristlecone Loop Trail is an easy trail that takes you through a forest of ancient bristlecone pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on earth!

It is situated at the highest point in Bryce Canyon (over 9,000 feet), making for some great views!

Best Hiking Trails in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, towering sandstone cliffs, and stunning hiking trails!

Here are some of the best hiking trails in Zion National Park to add to your itinerary!

Angel’s Landing

• Distance: 4.3 miles
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,827 feet

Angel’s Landing is by far the most iconic and thrilling hike in Zion National Park!

It offers unreal views of Zion Canyon at the top. 

The trail is challenging at times and involves steep switchbacks (also known as Walter’s Wiggles) leading up to Scout’s Landing.

Then, from Scout’s Landing, you head to the chained portion of Angel’s Landing where you do need a permit. The permit is based on a lottery system.

If you’re interested, check out more info on how to apply for an Angel’s Landing permit here.

The chained portion of Angel’s Landing features exposed sections and chains to hold onto for safety – it is definitely not for the faint of heart or those with a fear of heights. 

With that said, I do have a healthy fear of heights, and I successfully completed this hike!

I admit I psyched myself out beforehand by watching videos and looking at photos of the hike. However, in my opinion, the hike wasn’t nearly as scary as the photos & videos make it out to be!

If you do not get the permit for Angel’s Landing, I still recommend hiking to Scout’s Lookout as you still get an amazing view from there.

The Narrows (Bottom Up)

• Distance: 8.9 miles (you can go as far as you want then turn around)
• Duration: up to 6 hours depending on how far you want to go
• Elevation Gain: 695 feet

Hiking the Narrows Bottom Up involves wading through the Virgin River as it winds through a narrow slot canyon. 

The distance varies depending on how far you want to hike since you can just turn around when you’re ready to go back.

This map of the Narrows route from the Bottom Up was helpful to look at beforehand to see where the iconic sights were located along the way.

We hiked until we reached the Wall Street area before deciding to turn back. At that point, the current became stronger, reaching up to my chest (for reference, I am 5′ 6″), and walking through the water became challenging.

In total, the hike lasted around 4 hours, which was just right for us.

We did this hike the second week of October, and we were super happy with our decision to rent the dry bib package from Zion Outfitters. This is a must if visiting during the fall as the water is pretty cold.

Before starting your Narrows hike, always check for flash flood warnings in the area. Hiking during flash flood alerts can be extremely hazardous. You can monitor warnings here.

Additionally, you should check the flow rate of the Virgin River here. If it exceeds 150 cubic feet per second, the Narrows will close which is a common occurrence in the spring due to snowmelt.

Be aware that toxic cyanobacteria has been found in the Virgin River. Check current conditions here. It’s recommended to avoid submerging your head underwater and to not drink the water, even if you filter it.

Observation Point

• Distance: 7 miles
• Duration: 3 hours
• Elevation Gain: 702 feet

Observation Point via East Mesa Trail is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding hike, offering perhaps the best view of Zion National Park from its high elevation. 

Ascending to over 2,100 feet, it provides breathtaking views of the canyon below – it even makes Angel’s Landing look small 😲!

And bonus points is that the trail is not scary and there are no steep drop offs along the way like Angel’s Landing – unless of course you veer off the designated trail which is NOT recommended.

Emerald Pools Trail

• Distance: 3 miles
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 620 feet

The Emerald Pools Trail is a family-friendly hike that leads to a series of pools fed by waterfalls. 

The trail consists of three segments—Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools.

The Lower Pool tends to have the largest waterfall of the three, but it’s worth nothing that the waterfalls might be slightly underwhelming compared to typical expectations of waterfalls. Nevertheless, it is still cool that they exist in Zion!

Since this is a very popular family-friendly hike in Zion, I still wanted to include it. However, if you’re short on time, it would be the first hike I suggest to remove from your itinerary since it does not provide the same “wow” factor as the other hikes on this list.

Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

• Distance: 0.9 mile
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 157 feet

A short but rewarding hike, Zion Canyon Overlook Trail offers spectacular views of Zion Canyon for little effort!

The trailhead is located on the east side of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel and is approximately 1 mile round trip.

Parking for this trail is tough so I do recommend coming early if you’re wanting to be here for sunrise, which is what we did!

I would recommend trying to get parking around an hour before sunrise to give yourself plenty of time.

There are a steep set of stairs at the beginning of the hike, but after that, the trail is relatively flat and easy.

Example Itinerary for Bryce Canyon & Zion National Park

Here is a brief example itinerary on how I would spend my time with three days in Zion National Park & one day in Bryce Canyon.

Since most people tend to just do a day trip to Bryce Canyon from Zion to avoid the hassle of switching accommodations, this itinerary is structured accordingly.

Day 1: Zion National Park

• Morning: Hike to Scout’s Lookout & continue to Angel’s Landing if you have the permit
• Afternoon: Hike Emerald Pools trail
• Evening: Walk the Pa’rus Trail at sunset

Day 2: Zion National Park

• Morning/Afternoon: Hike the Narrows Bottom-Up as far as you would like

Day 3: Zion National Park

• Morning: View the Sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
• Afternoon: Hike the Observation Point via East Mesa Trail

Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

• Morning: Drive to Bryce Canyon from Zion National Park
• Afternoon: Hike the Fairyland Loop Trail
• Evening: Head back to Zion National Park if just doing a day trip

Places to Stay Near Zion National Park

If you’re looking to stay right outside of Zion National Park allowing for easy access to the park, Springdale is the best choice!

It does come with a cost due to its convenience, especially during peak times like the summer.

Staying in Springdale, you can also take advantage of the Springdale shuttle or even walk to the Zion National Park entrance allowing you to avoid the parking chaos.

Here are a few hotels in Springdale I recommend:

• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Marriott Springhill Suites
• Cable Mountain Lounge – 5 minute walk to the visitor center & the Zion park shuttle!
• Desert Pearl Inn – large rooms and on-site pool & hot tub
• Holiday Inn Express
• Best Western Plus

If you’re not wanting to stay in Springdale and are looking for cheaper accommodations, I recommend staying in Virgin, Utah or La Verkin, Utah. They are both located about a 25 minute drive from the park so not bad at all!

Here are a few places to stay in Virgin, Utah I recommend:

• Marriott Fairfield Inn & Suites
• Under Canvas Zion – if you’re looking for a glamping experience!

Here are a few hotels in La Verkin, Utah I recommend:

• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• The Dwellings – tiny homes located along a cliff’s edge 😲
• Best Western Plus

If you’re wanting to stay inside of Zion National Park, the only place you can stay, besides camping, is Zion National Park Lodge! It does book up far in advance so be sure to make reservations well ahead of time.

Be sure to check out my blog post about the best places for glamping near Zion National Park if you’re looking for unique accommodations!

Places to Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park

If you’re wanting to stay a night or two near Bryce Canyon, here are a few hotels I recommend:

• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon – more basic/older rooms but great location within a 5 minute walk to the trails
• Stone Canyon Inn – 15 to 20 minute drive to Bryce Canyon
• Bryce Trails Bed and Breakfast – homey bed & breakfast

Vrbo is another great resource to find places to stay, especially if you’re traveling with a large group of people and you’re looking for more spacious accommodations.

Conclusion – Is Zion or Bryce Canyon Better?

Ultimately, the decision between Bryce Canyon vs. Zion National Park depends on what you’re looking for in a national park experience!

If you prefer dramatic cliffs and a wide range of thrilling hiking options, Zion may be the better choice.

If you’re drawn to unique rock formations and a more intimate and less crowded park experience, Bryce Canyon could be the winner for you.

Both parks offer incredible beauty and adventure, so you can’t go wrong with either choice!