Bryce and Zion are the peas and carrots, can't have one without the other! I actually have no idea if that's a thing with peas and carrots, but I'm confident about Bryce and Zion!
These two national parks are very close together but COMPLETELY different geographies. Zion is this enchanting canyon with hanging gardens and lush wildlife in the middle of the desert. Bryce is a high-elevation hoodoo wonder with incredible views in every direction.
Zion: At Zion you must use the shuttle buses to go everywhere in the park. If visiting during the summer the lines can be quite long to board. Usually, the return trip has no line, but departing from the Visitor Center can take a bit. We almost missed a tour because of this.
Things To Do: What you decide will vary by the activity level of your party
Hiking in Zion Trail Descriptions << Go here for an all-inclusive list of trails, but a few key ones are noted below.
Angel's Landing - arguably Zion's most famous hike. When you are on the shuttle bus you can see people heading up the "Wiggles". Permits are required for this trail and you should apply in advance if you can. They do have a "day before" lottery, but if this is on your bucket list don't leave it to chance.
The Narrows - the next most famous hike, no permit needed At least 60% of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. Travel is rough and slippery in cold, fast flowing water. Renting the right gear is critical for this (in my opinion). There are plenty of places in town that can assist with this.
Watchmen Trail - This trail is shaded in the morning, but pretty much straight sun in the afternoon. Go early!
Weeping Rock Trail - a must see! Super short but a magical spot. If visiting in the fall you may find lots of 8 legged friends here.
Hiking in Bryce
Bryce reminds me of the Grand Canyon, where everything starts at the rim, goes down and then back up. This can be dangerous because it can seem easy to go down, and before you know it you have a 4-mile climb out of the canyon at 8,000 ft elevation. Keep this in mind when choosing a trailhead.
Strenuous hikes: Hat Shop, Fairyland Loop, Peakaboo Loop Moderate Hikes
Queens Garden Trail, Tower Bridge
The Rim Trail, Mossy Cave Trail
Horse Back Riding
Both Zion and Bryce offer horseback rides on different trails in the park. If you only want to do this at one park I would recommend Bryce because of the more challenging elevation climbs. You may be able to see a lot more of the park by horseback than by foot.
Other Things to Do:
Antelope Canyon - If you have extra time consider a day trip to Antelope Canyon in Page, AZ. One of the most famous slot canyons, well worth the tour price and time to travel that way.
Bryce Canyon Country Rodeo - runs all summer long and is a Utah tradition
Bryce also has a great paved bike trail. It doesn't go down into the canyon, stays high through forested areas. Beautiful.
Rock Climbing - for a next level adventure join a rock climbing tour to experience Zion from a vantage point few ever experience.
Where to Stay:
Zion - The town of Springdale has tons of lodging options including camping, glamping, hotels, and homes.
Campgrounds - Zion River Resort & Campground
Glamping - Zion White Bison Resort, Zion Wildflower
Hotel - Springhill Suites - Zion (Fun fact: if you google best marriotts around the world, this one is on most lists!)
Cabin/Lodge - Zion Mountain Ranch
Bryce - Options are much more limited here.
Glamping - Under Canvas
Campgrounds - Ruby's Campground
Hotels - Best Western Plus, Bryce View Lodge
Where to Eat:
Zion - tons of options in Springdale.
Zion Pizza & Noodle Co
Hangry Goat - BBQ fave with stellar views of Zion
The Park House - best breakfast in Zion
Oscar's - burgers and burritos
Whiptail Grill - delicious mexican food
MeMe's cafe - homestyle cooking, family friendly
Bryce - Ruby's Inn Buffet & Steakhouse, Canyon Diner
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