Most Bryce visitors see the Bryce Amphitheater and leave, but the main park road continues another 15 miles south along the rim, and the Southern Scenic Drive is how you see the full sweep of the park. The road runs 18 miles from the north entrance to Rainbow and Yovimpa Points at its southern end, climbing from the visitor center at 7,894 feet to more than 9,000 feet, through forests of ponderosa pine, then spruce and fir. Along the way, nine scenic overlooks open onto different faces of the plateau's eroded edge. Highlights include Swamp Canyon, Farview Point and Piracy Point, where the views stretch for miles across the Grand Staircase; Natural Bridge, a large arch carved into the red rock and one of the most photographed spots in the park; Agua Canyon, where hoodoos stand out against a deep red background; and Ponderosa Canyon. At the end of the road, Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point stand at the highest part of the park, with views south across the layered cliffs of Grand Staircase-Escalante and, on clear days, to distant mountains. Rainbow Point is also the start of the short Bristlecone Loop through ancient bristlecone pines. The drive takes about 40 minutes each way without stops, and two to three hours with viewpoints. The best strategy is to drive straight to Rainbow Point first and stop at the overlooks on the way back, when they are all on the right side of the road, so you never have to cross traffic.
Winter conditions. The road stays open through the winter, but after storms it can close temporarily at the Mile 3 gate, just past the Bryce Amphitheater, while crews clear snow, and the higher viewpoints can be icy. Check current conditions with the park before you set out, carry warm layers, and do not count on reaching Rainbow Point on the morning after a big storm. On a clear winter day, though, the drive is spectacular, with red rock and white snow and almost no other cars.
Doing it well. Start in the morning, when the light on the southern viewpoints is crisp and the parking lots are quiet, or late afternoon for warm colors. Bring water and a picnic: there are picnic areas at Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point, but no food services south of the amphitheater. If you have time, walk the Bristlecone Loop at Rainbow Point, an easy loop of about a mile through ancient trees, and stretch your legs on the short paths at each viewpoint. Large RVs and trailers face restrictions on parking at some viewpoints, so check the park's guidance if you drive one.
Fitting it into a trip. Combine the Southern Scenic Drive with sunrise at Sunrise or Sunset Point and a hike below the rim, and you have seen the best of Bryce in a day. It suits first-time visitors, families with young children who are not ready for long hikes, travelers with limited mobility, and anyone on a road trip who wants to see more than the amphitheater.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided drive along the park road from the amphitheater to Rainbow and Yovimpa Points above 9,000 feet, with nine overlooks and short walks, including the Bristlecone Loop.
Best time
Morning for crisp light and quiet; late afternoon for warm color. In winter, a clear day after the plows have finished.
How long
About two to three hours with stops.
Tips
Drive to the end first and stop on the way back so viewpoints are on your right. Bring food and water, check winter conditions at the Mile 3 gate, and walk the Bristlecone Loop.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Seeing all of Bryce Canyon, not just the amphitheater.
- Families
- Easy viewpoints with short walks, ideal for young children.
- Couples
- A picnic at Rainbow Point with views over the Grand Staircase.
- Pair with
- Sunrise on the Rim Trail and a hike below the rim on the Navajo Loop.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
How long is the Bryce Canyon scenic drive?+
The main park road is 18 miles from the north entrance to Rainbow and Yovimpa Points; the Southern Scenic Drive is the last 15 miles. Allow about 40 minutes each way without stops.
What are the best viewpoints?+
Natural Bridge, Agua Canyon, Farview Point, Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point are highlights, with nine overlooks in total.
Is the road open in winter?+
Yes, but it can close temporarily at the Mile 3 gate after storms while crews remove snow. Check current conditions before you go.
In which direction should I drive?+
Drive to Rainbow Point first and stop at viewpoints on the way back, when they are all on the right side of the road.
Is there food along the drive?+
No food services operate south of the amphitheater, so bring snacks and water. There are picnic areas at the southern end.
