Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is not actually a "canyon" in the strictest sense of the word, but a series of giant natural amphitheaters carved into the sides of a giant plateau. At 9,000 feet (2,700 m) in elevation, this park offers a high-altitude viewpoint of a forest of brilliant orange hoodoos and gravity-defying spires.

Dramatic rock formations at Bryce Canyon

At a Glance

Distance: 4 hours, 250 miles from Salt Lake City

Time Budget: 2–4 hours for the 18-mile scenic drive and overlooks

Best Riding: May to October, as snow often lingers through late April

Fees: $30 for up to two motorcycles riding together (or an Annual Park Pass).

The Ride

The journey into Bryce is just as spectacular as the park itself. If you are arriving from the east, you will ride through the iconic red rock tunnels of Red Canyon before reaching the park turnoff. The park's main route is an 18-mile journey that climbs steadily toward the sky, eventually reaching Rainbow Point. At 9,115 feet, this is the highest point in the park and offers a staggering panoramic view for miles around. The road is well-paved with gentle sweepers, though you should remain alert for wandering mule deer and slow-moving vehicles as you transit between the various amphitheater overlooks.

All the best views are within a short walk from their respective parking areas, so we encourage you to stop often. Sunset Point and Sunrise Point offer the most dramatic views of the hoodoos with almost no hiking required. For those looking to stretch their legs off the bike, the Navajo Loop is a must. It’s a relatively short but steep trail that takes you down into "Wall Street," a narrow slot-like canyon where massive Douglas fir trees reach toward the sliver of sky above. On your way in or out, stop at the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge and admire its 1920s architecture. You can even stay the night if you wish!

If you want to simplify your ride, we suggest riding all the way to the end (Rainbow Point) first. On your way back down, all the scenic overlooks will be on your right-hand side, making it much easier and safer to pull in and out of parking lots on a motorcycle
This is high-alpine riding. Even in mid-summer, morning temperatures can be in the 40s or 50s. Pack a mid-layer and don't be surprised if you see patches of snow in the shadows in the shoulder seasons.
This area is densely populated with mule deer and elk. They are most active at dawn and dusk—stay alert on Hwy 12 and Hwy 63.

Tips

Itinerary

Prepare to arrive to the region the day prior
Enter Bryce Canyon early, and grab coffee at the General Store
Begin at the end and ride to Rainbow Point first
Hit the overlooks on the way back down.
Grab lunch at the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge, or head to Bryce Canyon City for a variety of food options.
Consider riding on Highway 12 East to Escalante for dinner!