Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is a unique and beautiful destination known for its hoodoos. These rock formations, created by erosion, are a sight to behold, and the park offers a variety of hikes to explore them. Here are 7 of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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Most people will fly in to either Las Vegas, Nevada or Salt Lake City Utah when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park.

Las Vegas is is about 250 miles from the entrance of Bryce Canyon National Park, while Salt Like City is a shorter drive located only about 150 miles away.

Although longer, I would suggest flying into Las Vegas for a few different reasons. The first is that flight are usually cheaper flying into Las Vegas as it is such a popular destination. Secondly, I have found some very good rental car options from here costing me only $100 for 3-4 days. Lastly, there are a lot of other places to stop on the drive up to Bryce Canyon National Park.

The best time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park for hiking would be during the spring and fall seasons. The temperatures during these seasons are mild, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months.

Spring (April – May) is a great time to visit as the park is coming to life after a long winter, wildflowers are starting to bloom and the park is less crowded. The daytime temperatures are comfortable and the nights are still cool, making it ideal for hiking.

Fall (September – November) is also a great time to visit, the park is less crowded, the colors of the forest are changing and the temperatures are mild.

Summer (June – August) is the peak season for tourism and the temperatures can be very hot. The park can also get crowded and finding parking can be challenging. If you are planning to visit during the summer, it is best to start your hike early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the heat of the day.

Winter (December – March) is the off-season, the park is less crowded, but the temperatures can be very cold, and the roads may be closed due to snow, it’s best to check the park’s website for the latest information on road closures and snow conditions. Also, it’s important to be prepared for the cold weather, and bring warm clothing and proper footwear.

• Plan ahead: Make sure to pack plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the park. It’s also a good idea to bring a map and a compass, as cell phone service can be spotty in the park.
• Wear appropriate clothing: The desert climate can be extreme, with temperatures ranging from over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer to below freezing in the winter. Make sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes for hiking.
• Visit during the week: The park tends to be less crowded during the week, so if you have the flexibility, try to visit mid-week instead of on the weekend.

• Get an early start: The park can get very hot in the summer, so it’s a good idea to start your hikes early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day.
• Explore the park’s dark sky: Joshua Tree National Park is home to some of the darkest night skies in the country, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. The park offers ranger-led stargazing programs, or you can bring your own telescope and spend the night under the stars.

Hidden Valley is a popular hike in Joshua Tree National Park, and for good reason. The loop trail is only about 1 mile long, making it a great option for a quick hike. The trail takes you through a beautiful valley surrounded by towering rock formations, and it’s a great spot for rock climbing and bouldering. The elevation gain is minimal, so it’s an easy hike for most people.

Ryan Mountain is a moderate to challenging hike that takes you to the top of a mountain with stunning views of the park. The trail is about 3 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. The summit stands at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Salton Sea. The hike is strenuous, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

The Wall Street Mill hike is a moderate to challenging hike that takes you to an old gold mining mill. The trail is about 3.5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of plants and animals, and you’ll get a sense of the area’s rich history. The mill itself is a fascinating relic, and it’s a great spot to take a break and have a picnic.

Barker Dam is an easy hike that takes you to a historic dam and a small oasis in the desert. The trail is only about 1.5 miles round trip, with a minimal elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of plants and animals, and you might even spot some bighorn sheep. The dam is a popular spot for rock climbing and bouldering, and it’s a great spot to take a break and have a picnic.

Lost Horse Mine is a moderate to challenging hike that takes you to an old gold mine. The trail is about 4 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of plants and animals, and you’ll get a sense of the area’s rich history

While not really a hike, the Cholla Garden is a great area to visit while in Joshua Tree National Park. The area is about 10 acres full of cholla cacti. This is a great spot to visit either when you’re entering or exiting the park.

Just be careful! Cholla are known as the jumping cactus, and once you get stuck by one they are painful to remove.

Skull Rock is a popular rock formation located in Joshua Tree National Park in California. It is made up of two large boulders, one of which has a hole in it that resembles a human skull.

Located towards the north end of the park this is right next to the road, and a quick 10 minute stop is all that is needed.

Overall, Joshua Tree National Park has a range of hikes to suit all ability levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging backcountry route, you’ll find something to suit your needs. So lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails in this amazing park!