“Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are two of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the United States. Both parks offer breathtaking landscapes, unique geologic formations, and an abundance of outdoor activities. While they may seem similar at first glance, each park has its own distinct charm and character. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, these parks offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and prepare to be amazed as we take a closer look at the similarities and differences between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.”
Hiking Trails in Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both known for their stunning hiking trails. At Bryce Canyon, hikers can explore the famous hoodoos, which are unique rock formations that resemble tall, thin spires. Some of the easiest hikes at Bryce Canyon include the Queen’s Garden Trail and the Navajo Loop Trail. Both of these trails offer beautiful views of the hoodoos and are relatively short in distance. For a more challenging hike, the Riggs Spring Loop Trail is a popular choice. This trail is longer and steeper, but offers breathtaking views of the park.
Zion National Park is also home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. The Riverside Walk is a popular and easy hike that takes you along the Virgin River and offers views of the towering cliffs. For a more challenging hike, the Angels Landing Trail is a must-do. This hike is steep and strenuous, but offers breathtaking views of the park from the top. Another challenging hike is the Narrows, which takes you into the narrow slot canyons along the North Fork of the Virgin River. Both parks offer a wide range of hiking trails for visitors of all abilities, and both are known for their spectacular natural beauty.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Bryce Canyon National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail | 4184.284 | 189.8904 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Fairyland Loop Trail | 11909.116 | 469.6968 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Peekaboo Loop Trail | 8368.568 | 442.8744 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Navajo Loop Trail | 2253.076 | 139.9032 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Wall Street and Queens Garden Loop Trail | 4988.954 | 175.8696 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Sunset Point to Sunrise Point | 1770.274 | 24.9936 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Mossy Cave Turret Arch and Little Windows Trail | 1609.34 | 35.9664 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Queen Victoria via Queen’s Garden Loop | 3379.614 | 123.7488 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Tower Bridge Trail | 5471.756 | 251.7648 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Wall Street and Queens Garden Loop to Peekaboo Loop (Figure Eight Trail) | 10138.842 | 456.8952 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Zion National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angels Landing Trail | 6598.294 | 492.8616 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk | 2896.812 | 62.7888 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Zion Canyon Overlook Trail | 1609.34 | 64.9224 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| The Watchman Trail | 4988.954 | 196.9008 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| The Subway Trail | 11265.38 | 397.764 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Weeping Rock Trail | 482.802 | 23.7744 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Zion Narrows Trail to Imlay Temple and Big Spring | 13840.324 | 1268.8824 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Lower Emerald Pool Trail | 2092.142 | 34.7472 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Emerald Pools Trail | 4667.086 | 184.7088 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Hidden Canyon Trail | 4828.02 | 283.7688 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park both offer a diverse range of wildlife that visitors can observe during their visit.
At Bryce Canyon National Park, visitors can see a variety of mammals such as mule deer, bighorn sheep, and elk. Birds such as the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and the common raven can also be spotted in the park. The park is also home to various species of reptiles and amphibians, including the garter snake, western skink, and the canyon tree frog. In terms of plant life, visitors can see a wide range of wildflowers, cacti, and evergreen trees.
Zion National Park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can see mammals such as the mule deer, bighorn sheep, and the elusive mountain lion. The park is also home to a wide variety of bird species including the American dipper, the great horned owl, and the peregrine falcon. Reptiles such as the desert tortoise and western rattlesnake can also be spotted in the park. In terms of plant life, visitors can see a wide range of wildflowers, Joshua trees, and yucca plants.
Overall, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park offer a unique and diverse range of wildlife for visitors to observe and enjoy. Each park has its own specific set of animals, birds, and plants that are commonly seen, making them both great destinations for wildlife enthusiasts.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| American Robin | American Robin |
| Great Horned Owl | Great Horned Owl |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Northern Flicker | Northern Flicker |
| Merlin | Merlin |
| Barn Swallow | Barn Swallow |
| Savannah Sparrow | Savannah Sparrow |
| Great Blue Heron | Great Blue Heron |
| Hermit Thrush | Hermit Thrush |
| American Kestrel | American Kestrel |
| Bald Eagle | Bald Eagle |
| Song Sparrow | Song Sparrow |
| European Starling | European Starling |
| Northern Pintail | Northern Pintail |
| American Wigeon | American Wigeon |
| Green-Winged Teal | Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| American Beaver | American Beaver |
| Muskrat | Muskrat |
| Big Brown Bat | Big Brown Bat |
| Bobcat | Bobcat |
| Striped Skunk | Striped Skunk |
| Little Brown Bat | Little Brown Bat |
| Deer Mouse | Deer Mouse |
| Raccoon | Raccoon |
| Black Bear | Black Bear |
| Porcupine | Porcupine |
| Silver-Haired Bat | Silver-Haired Bat |
| Hoary Bat | Hoary Bat |
| Red Fox | Red Fox |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | Long-Tailed Weasel |
| House Mouse | House Mouse |
| Mountain Lion | Mountain Lion |
| Mule Deer | Mule Deer |
| Common Gray Fox | Gray Fox |
| Long-Legged Myotis | Long-Legged Myotis |
| Long-Eared Myotis | Long-Eared Myotis |
| American Badger | American Badger |
| Ermine | Ermine |
| California Myotis | California Myotis |
| Snowshoe Hare | Fringed Myotis |
Reptiles
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Gophersnake | Gophersnake |
| Terrestrial Gartersnake | Terrestrial Gartersnake |
| Prairie Rattlesnake | Ring-Necked Snake |
| Common Sagebrush Lizard | Common Sagebrush Lizard |
| Greater Short-Horned Lizard | Greater Short-Horned Lizard |
| Side-Blotched Lizard | Side-Blotched Lizard |
| Nightsnake | Common Kingsnake |
| Striped Whipsnake | Nightsnake |
| Tree Lizard | Long-Nosed Leopard Lizard |
| Western Whiptail | Striped Whipsnake |
| Western Skink | Smith’s Black-Headed Snake |
| Tree Lizard | |
| Western Whiptail | |
| Western Skink | |
| Desert Spiny Lizard |
Fish
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Brook Trout | Rainbow Trout |
| Brook Trout | |
| Brown Trout | |
| Speckled Dace | |
| Channel Catfish | |
| Goldfish |
Amphibians
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Northern Leopard Frog | Northern Leopard Frog |
| Tiger Salamander | Tiger Salamander |
| Woodhouse’s Toad | |
| Red-Spotted Toad | |
| Canyon Treefrog |
Beautiful Landscapes in Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are two of the most iconic national parks in the United States, each known for their breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Bryce Canyon is famous for its hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock that rise from the ground. These hoodoos, along with the park’s colorful rock formations and diverse ecosystems, make for some of the most picturesque hiking trails in the country. Zion National Park, on the other hand, is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and deep, narrow canyons. The park’s most famous feature is Zion Canyon, a 15-mile long and up to half-mile deep canyon that is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the country. Both parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and camping, making them perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Things To-Do and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both popular national parks located in the western United States. Both parks offer visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy, from hiking and camping to sightseeing and wildlife viewing.
When it comes to hiking, Bryce Canyon National Park offers a variety of trails that vary in difficulty and length. Some of the most popular hikes include the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes visitors through a slot canyon and past several hoodoos, and the Bristlecone Loop Trail, which offers a more strenuous hike with scenic views of the park. In contrast, Zion National Park is known for its strenuous hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the park’s stunning sandstone canyons and cliffs. Some of the most popular hikes include Angels Landing, a 5-mile hike with steep drop-offs and narrow paths, and The Narrows, a hike through a narrow slot canyon.
When it comes to wildlife, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to a variety of animals such as mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species. Zion National Park also has a diverse array of wildlife, including mountain lions, black bears, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. The park also boasts a wide variety of plants, from the iconic Joshua tree to delicate wildflowers.
In terms of family-friendly activities, both parks offer a variety of options for families. Bryce Canyon National Park offers ranger-led activities for children and families, such as nature walks and stargazing programs. Zion National Park also has ranger-led programs and offers the Junior Ranger program, which allows children to learn about the park and earn a badge. Both parks also offer family-friendly camping options.
Overall, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are great options for visitors who want to experience the beauty and wonder of the American Southwest. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a family looking for a fun outdoor adventure, these parks offer something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both located in the southwestern United States and have similar weather patterns. Both parks experience mild winters and hot summers, with the most pleasant weather typically occurring in the spring and fall.
In Bryce Canyon, the best time to visit for hiking is from April to May and from September to October, as the temperatures are mild and the park’s famous hoodoos, or rock spires, are less crowded. The summer months can be quite hot and the park’s trails can become crowded with visitors. Winter can also be a great time to visit, as the park receives snowfall and the hoodoos can be seen blanketed in white.
Similarly, in Zion, the best time to visit for hiking is also from April to May and from September to October, as the temperatures are mild and the park’s famous sandstone cliffs and canyons are less crowded. The park can also get quite hot in the summer, and trails can be crowded. Winter is also a great time to visit as the park may receive snowfall, and the park’s winter scenery can be very beautiful.
Overall, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are great places to visit all year round, but the best time to visit for hiking is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.
Family Friendliness of Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both family-friendly destinations that offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Both parks feature beautiful landscapes, natural wonders, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, the specific experience that each park offers is quite different.
Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its hoodoos, which are unique rock formations that resemble tall, thin spires. The park also features a number of hiking trails, including easy ones like the Rim Trail and more challenging ones like the Peekaboo Loop. There are also several ranger-led programs, including guided hikes and stargazing events. This park is great for families with children who are interested in geology, hiking, and stargazing.
Zion National Park is known for its towering cliffs, deep canyons, and beautiful waterfalls. The park features a number of popular hiking trails, including the Riverside Walk and Angels Landing. Families with children can also enjoy the park’s shuttle system, which allows visitors to explore the park without having to worry about parking or traffic. The park also features a number of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes and wildlife viewing. This park is great for families with children who are interested in hiking, wildlife, and scenic drives.
Overall, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are great options for families with children, but the specific experience will depend on what type of outdoor activities and natural wonders your family is most interested in.