Bryce Canyon During the Offseason
Bryce Canyon National Park is the best National Park in Utah, at least that's what Phil thinks. Having been both during the summer and now again in the Winter, Phil also thinks visiting Bryce during the offseason is the way to go.
The red and orange colors of Bryce pop out even more with the snow and the already less crowded Bryce is now even more scarce.
The best part about Bryce National Park was how unique it was compared to the other Utah National Parks. The views are unlike anything else and bundling up in the cold to see the snow is worth it.
We made sure to have several layers, a waterproof outer layer, and crampons. This way we could adventure all day without any problems.
Unlike the other Utah National Parks, Bryce does have snow and below-freezing temperatures during the winter. This means you will have to come prepared if you visit Bryce during the offseason.
Explore Utah's Other National Parks in the Offseason
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Perks of Visiting Bryce Canyon During the Offseason
Experiencing fewer crowds is often the main reason to visit National Parks during the offseason. Bryce, however, offers unique experiences during the offseason you can't get in the summer.
Snow
You've probably seen snow before but the snow mixed with the fiery colors of Bryce is unreal. Add to that snow-capped hoodoos and this place is a unique, beautiful winter paradise.
Since Bryce National Park is located at a higher elevation you may experience some snow no matter when you go but the amount of snow during the winter makes the views 100% better.
While we were visiting Bryce during the offseason we met many photographers who go specifically during the offseason. They told us the pictures they get during the wintertime outshine the same locations in the summer.
Winter Activities
With all of the talk of snow, it's no wonder a whole list of winter activities is made available during colder months. Going to Bryce during the offseason opens up the possibilities for more experiences.
With all of the snowfall, you can go cross country skiing or snowshoeing through the park which is something you cannot do during the summer. There is plenty of snow for sledding, sleigh rides, and riding snowmobiles.
Hiking in Bryce Canyon
There might not be quite as many hikes open during the winter but there are still great hikes to choose from. Just remember to come prepared with the hiking essentials including crampons and extra water.
Sunset to Sunrise
This is an easy hike to do no matter what season you go. It takes you from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point, both of which are stunning whatever time of day you visit.
The hike is paved or on well-packed dirt and is flat throughout. It is an easy hike to get to from multiple parking lots so no matter what it's a great hike to start your Bryce Canyon adventure.
Rim Trail
This is a continuation of Sunset to Sunrise that runs along the rim the whole way through Bryce. Parts of it are closed during the winter so you can't do the full 11-mile hike but you can do most of it.
It's all flat again with paved or packed dirt and great views along the way. There are lots of vista points to stop off at along the way and it is easily accessible from multiple parking spots.
This is one of our favorite hikes in Bryce. You get to see so many things including views from the rim, up-close views of the hoodoos and even great picture opportunities with some arches.
To get here you can start at either Sunrise or Sunset point although we suggest starting from Sunset point so you can ease into it along the rim before heading down into the canyon. If you do the whole trail it only clocks in at around three miles.
Lodging around Bryce Canyon
If you go to Bryce during the offseason you have two main choices for lodging...Best Western or Best Western. Seriously there are two Best Western Hotels across the street from each other.
The other lodging options in Bryce such as camping or RV parks are closed, decently far away, or just too cold to enjoy. Trust us, you should go with the Best Western Option.
Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
This is a Best Western Plus and it is very close to the park in Bryce Canyon City. It is open year-round and when you go during the winter it is not very busy at all.
They have a great breakfast buffet with lots of options and great service. They also have lots of other amenities you might need after a long day of hiking including a hot tub, laundry facilities, and nice large rooms to stretch out in.
You can choose between a king room or two queens when selecting your room. Your room also comes with tons of plugs to charge all your electronics, a large sink, cable TV and even a sitting area to work on your blog!
Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn
This is another great option when looking at where to stay in Bryce. This hotel is right across the street from the Grand Hotel and it is again part of Best Western.
They also have a restaurant inside their hotel which includes a lunch and dinner buffet. We ate there one of our days in Bryce and it was well worth the price. Lots of food to choose from and it was all you can eat so after burning all those calories hiking everything was delicious!
They have the same options as the Grand Hotel with a king or two queen beds. If you come with more people you can also get a suite that would sleep 6 people on one king bed and two queen beds. Their rooms are well priced no matter what season you go but going in the offseason means you spend even less on hotels!
Bryce Canyon is truly one of our favorite parks to visit in any season. Visiting Bryce during the offseason means fewer crowds and more spectacular views. From the snow-covered hoodoos to the brisk temperatures while hiking, we highly recommend you visit Bryce Canyon National Park during the offseason!
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