Outbound Collective logo

Winter Camping in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce, Utah

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Description

Added by Kathleen Buenviaje

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bryce Canyon National Park with minimal crowds. Sunset campground is the only campground open in the park during the winter months. 

The incredible views at Bryce Canyon National Park can be described with little else than a “Wow.” During a snowy winter, especially, these sights are not to be missed.

There is only one campground open during the winter, Sunset Campground, and it is first come, first serve. Most visitors shy away from camping here due to the chilly temperatures, leaving you with a campground practically to yourself. Another advantage of the campground is it's proximity to Sunrise Point and Sunset Point. Hike up a slope to the Rim Trail for beautiful views of snow against the red rock.

It is important to bring a shovel and tarp when base camping in the snow. Snowfall ranges between a few inches to 4-5 feet, so the shovel is needed for digging a space to pitch your tent. These campsites do have fire pits, which will be much appreciated after a day of hiking in the snow.

On that note, it is highly recommended to bring snowshoes, crampons, and water resistant/proof hiking boots. Hiking in wet socks in 17º weather is not the most pleasant feeling.

One option for a hike is the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes you into the canyons on a one-mile loop, with 167 ft. elevation gain. The trail starts at Sunset Point, then heads into the main amphitheater. It is well-marked and popular, and therefore easier to follow in the wintertime, when the trail often is covered with tracks. Navajo Loop is also fairly steep, so it is a good idea to bring snowshoes and trekking poles. Also be aware of risk for rock slides in this area.

To photographers, know that winter sunrises in Bryce Canyon are spectacular. Although it may seem unimaginable to leave the warmth of your tent in the dark, it is well worth the trek up the mountain in freezing temperatures to capture the sunrise. Break out some hand warmers, pull down a beanie, and force yourself out of your sleeping bag – you won't regret it.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin
Camping
Photography
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Forest
Scenic

Winter Camping in Bryce Canyon National Park Reviews

Did this in early spring and I was surprised at how cold it was. That being said, the snow on the orange rock was pretty spectacular and I'd definitely do it again. Bring layers!

It can get oh so cold here in the winter, but it's worth it to photograph contrasting snow on the red rocks. If you're planning on night photography be prepared with lots of layers and possibly a sleeping bag, I've had temps below zero Fahrenheit.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Sunset Point to Sunrise Point

Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail

Peek-a-Boo Loop in Bryce Canyon

Navajo Loop Trail

Winter Hike the Navajo-Queens Garden Loop

Wall Street Loop in Bryce Canyon