Zion to Bryce National Park: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

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Zion to Bryce Canyon: The Road Trip of a Lifetime

Zion National Park, with its colossal sandstone cliffs and the Virgin River winding through its heart, is a landscape that inspires awe. Bryce Canyon, on the other hand, is an alien world of hoodoos, those fantastical rock formations sculpted by wind and time.

The drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park is more than just a transfer; it’s an experience. The landscapes shift dramatically as you travel, offering a taste of the incredible diversity of Southern Utah.

This guide is for anyone planning a road trip through Utah’s stunning national parks, especially those who love to hike and explore the outdoors. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:

  • The distance and driving time between Zion and Bryce.
  • The best routes and must-see stops along the way.
  • When to visit, where to stay, and essential planning tips.
  • Suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time in both parks.

So, buckle up and get ready to plan your adventure from Zion to Bryce Canyon!

Planning Your Trip: Distance, Routes, and Transportation

So, you’re ready to hit the road from Zion to Bryce Canyon? Here’s what you need to know about getting there.

Distance and Driving Time

The most direct route between the parks is about 84-85 miles, which should take you around an hour and 54 minutes to two hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop to admire the views. This route usually takes you along US-89 and UT-12.

You could also take RT-15, but that’ll add about 30 minutes to your trip.

Getting There: Airports and Rental Cars

If you’re flying in, Las Vegas (LAS) is probably your best bet. It’s about a three-hour drive from Vegas to Zion, and you can snag a rental car right at the airport.

Salt Lake City (SLC) is another option, especially if you’re planning a longer road trip around Utah.

Getting Around: Shuttle Systems and Personal Vehicles

Zion National Park uses a mandatory shuttle system during the busy season. It really helps cut down on traffic inside the park. Just be sure to get there early to avoid long lines.

Bryce Canyon also has a shuttle, but it’s optional, so you can drive your own car if you prefer.

Honestly, having your own car is the best way to explore all the scenic routes and little towns around the parks at your own pace.

Zion National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Zion National Park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, the Virgin River that cuts through it, and its unique slot canyons. The park’s landscape lends itself to many activities, including hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.

Recommended Hikes in Zion

Zion offers hikes for all levels, from easy strolls to strenuous climbs. Here are a few to consider:

  • Angels Landing: This challenging 4.9-mile hike rewards you with stunning views. Note that a permit is now required to hike Angels Landing, so plan ahead.
  • The Narrows: A truly unique 8.9-mile hike that takes you through the Virgin River. Neoprene socks and appropriate shoes are highly recommended for this adventure. Be sure to check conditions before you go, as The Narrows can be closed due to high water or flash flood risk.
  • Emerald Pools Trail: A moderate 3-mile hike to a series of beautiful pools and waterfalls.
  • Observation Point Trail: This strenuous 7-mile hike offers panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
  • Canyon Overlook Trail: An easy 0.9-mile hike with impressive views of Zion Canyon. This is a great option if you’re short on time or looking for something less strenuous.

Sample Zion Itinerary

Here’s a possible itinerary for a two-day trip to Zion:

  • Day 1: Hike Angels Landing (with permit), explore Lower Emerald Pool, and watch the sunset from Canyon Junction Bridge (a popular spot for photos).
  • Day 2: Hike The Narrows, drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Scenic Highway, and hike Canyon Overlook.

Where to Stay Near Zion

You have a couple of options for lodging:

  • Inside the park: Zion Lodge is a beautiful option, but book well in advance as it fills up quickly.
  • Outside the park: The town of Springdale, just outside the park’s entrance, offers numerous hotels and restaurants to choose from.

Bryce Canyon National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Bryce Canyon is different from other parks. Instead of a deep canyon carved by a river, Bryce is famous for its hoodoos: tall, spindly rock formations that look like they belong on another planet. These hoodoos are clustered in natural amphitheaters, creating a surreal and stunning landscape.

While you’re there, you can hike among the hoodoos, gaze at the stars in some of the darkest night skies in the country, or simply enjoy the scenic drives with their breathtaking viewpoints.

Recommended Hikes in Bryce Canyon

  • Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail: A moderate 3-mile loop that takes you right into the heart of the hoodoos.
  • Rim Trail: An easy 10.7-mile trail along the rim of the canyon. You don’t have to do the whole thing; just pick a section for the views you want to see.
  • Mossy Cave Trail: An easy 0.9-mile hike to a mossy grotto and a small waterfall.
  • Bristlecone Loop Trail: A 1-mile trail that winds through an ancient forest of bristlecone pine trees.

Best Viewpoints in Bryce Canyon

  • Sunrise Point and Sunset Point: As the names suggest, these are the spots to be at sunrise and sunset. You can walk the 1.2 miles between them.
  • Inspiration Point and Bryce Point: These offer panoramic views of the entire amphitheater.

Sample Bryce Canyon Itinerary

  • Day 1: Stargaze. Seriously, the stars are incredible. Check out a ranger program to learn more about the night sky.
  • Day 2: Watch the sunrise, then hike the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop Trail. After lunch, drive the scenic route and hit those 15 viewpoints.

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon

  • Inside the Park: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the only lodging inside the park, so book well in advance.
  • Outside the Park: Bryce Canyon City has plenty of hotels and restaurants just outside the park entrance.

Scenic Route: Zion to Bryce Canyon – Must-See Stops

The drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park is beautiful in itself, but there are some stops along the way that you won’t want to miss.

Kanab, Utah

Located almost exactly in the middle of the two parks, Kanab is a central hub for outdoor adventures, including hiking and slot canyon tours. There are also several nearby attractions, including:

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

These shifting sand dunes are a sight to behold. Take a short hike of less than a mile, or challenge yourself with a 2.2-mile trek.

Mammoth Cave

Not to be confused with the Kentucky park of the same name, this unique cave system is located right off the highway. Guided tours are available, giving you a chance to explore underground formations.

Red Canyon – Dixie National Forest

Some say Red Canyon is a miniature version of Bryce Canyon. Here, you can enjoy hiking, biking, and scenic drives through a red rock landscape that’s every bit as stunning as the main attraction.

You’ll find plenty of scenic overlooks and photo opportunities in Red Canyon. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of southern Utah.

Best time to visit Zion and Bryce Canyon

Both Zion and Bryce Canyon offer unique experiences throughout the year, but some seasons are more ideal than others, depending on your priorities.

Spring (April-May)

Spring offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. In Zion, expect highs in the 60s to 80s°F, while Bryce Canyon will be a bit cooler, with highs in the 50s to 70s°F. Wildflowers are blooming, and the hiking conditions are generally ideal.

Summer (June-August)

Summer brings hot weather and the largest crowds to both parks. Zion can see highs exceeding 100°F, while Bryce Canyon’s highs hover in the 70s and 80s°F. If you visit during the summer, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms in Zion.

Fall (September-October)

Fall is often considered the best time to visit, with ideal weather and fewer crowds than summer. Temperatures are similar to spring, and the fall foliage adds an extra layer of scenic beauty to the already stunning landscapes.

Winter (November-March)

Winter brings cold weather and snow, especially in Bryce Canyon. Zion’s temperatures are milder, with highs in the 50s°F, while Bryce Canyon’s temperatures often dip below freezing. Some trails may be closed due to snow and ice, so check conditions before you go.

Essential Tips for a Successful Road Trip

Planning a trip between Zion and Bryce Canyon? Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Book Ahead: Reserve accommodations, especially if traveling during peak season. Kanab, UT, is a good central location.
  • Permits: Some hikes, like Angels Landing, require permits. Get these in advance.
  • Early Bird: Start your days early. You’ll beat the crowds and parking hassles.
  • Layers: Pack clothing you can layer. Temperatures can change quickly.
  • Hydrate: Bring plenty of water. Bryce Canyon sits at a high altitude, which can lead to dehydration.
  • Park Pass: The “America the Beautiful” pass can save you money on entry fees.
  • Be Aware: Watch out for thunderstorms and altitude sickness.
  • Shuttle Savvy: Use the free shuttle services within the parks. They can save you time and stress.
  • Gear Up: If hiking The Narrows in Zion, rent neoprene socks and water shoes.
  • Sunrise/Sunset: Plan at least one sunrise or sunset hike for incredible views.

With a little preparation, you can have an unforgettable experience exploring these two incredible national parks!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart is Bryce Canyon from Zion Canyon?

Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are relatively close, making it easy to visit both on the same trip. The driving distance between the two parks is approximately 72 miles (116 kilometers). Driving non-stop, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, you’ll definitely want to budget more time to stop and enjoy the scenic viewpoints along the way!

Is there a scenic drive between Zion and Bryce?

Absolutely! The drive between Zion and Bryce Canyon is incredibly scenic, and you’ll have the opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in Southern Utah. The most popular route is along Utah Highway 9 and U.S. Highway 89. A particularly noteworthy section is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Highway 9), which features a 1.1-mile tunnel carved through the sandstone cliffs. Keep in mind that oversized vehicles may require an escort through the tunnel for a fee.

Closing Thoughts

From the soaring sandstone cliffs of Zion to the otherworldly hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, a road trip between these two national parks is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be treated to some of the most stunning scenery in the American Southwest, with endless opportunities for hiking, canyoneering, and simply soaking in the beauty of nature.

If you’re planning a trip to southern Utah, be sure to include both Zion and Bryce Canyon on your itinerary. Remember to book your accommodations and any necessary permits well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. And don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known trails and viewpoints – you might just discover your own hidden gem.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor, a journey from Zion to Bryce is sure to leave you with a sense of wonder and awe. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget. The red rocks are calling, and the open road awaits!