Things to Do at Sunrise Point

Complete Guide to Sunrise Point in Bryce Canyon

About Sunrise Point

Sunrise Point is arguably the most popular viewpoint in Bryce Canyon National Park, and honestly, it's not hard to see why. This overlook sits right along the rim trail and offers what might be the most accessible spectacular view of the famous Bryce Amphitheater - that massive natural bowl filled with thousands of red, orange, and pink rock spires called hoodoos. The name is a bit misleading though; while sunrise here is genuinely beautiful, you'll actually get better sunrise views from other spots in the park. What makes Sunrise Point special is its position and accessibility. You're looking down into the heart of the amphitheater from about 8,100 feet elevation, and the view stretches for miles across southern Utah's high desert. It's also the starting point for the popular Navajo Loop Trail, so you'll likely find yourself here good for those planning to hike down among the hoodoos or just taking in the scenery from the rim. The viewpoint tends to get crowded, especially during peak season, but there's a reason everyone comes here - the view is genuinely spectacular.

What to See & Do

The Bryce Amphitheater

The main attraction - a massive natural bowl carved into the plateau edge, filled with thousands of colorful rock spires and formations that change color throughout the day

Thor's Hammer

One of the most famous hoodoos visible from this viewpoint, a distinctive rock formation that actually looks like a hammer balanced on a thin pedestal

Navajo Loop Trailhead

The starting point for one of Bryce's most popular hiking trails that switchbacks down into the amphitheater among the hoodoos

Rim Trail Access

Easy paved trail connections to Sunset Point and other viewpoints - perfect for an leisurely walk with multiple photo opportunities

Distant Vista Views

On clear days, you can see across the Paunsaugunt Plateau to distant mesas and mountains, giving you a sense of the massive scale of this landscape

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Accessible 24/7 year-round, though the park entrance stations operate seasonally. Winter access might require chains or 4WD depending on snow conditions

Tickets & Pricing

Requires Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (7 days), $30 per motorcycle, $20 per person on foot/bike. America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) is accepted

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (6-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-7 PM) for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Summer mornings are particularly nice before it gets hot

Suggested Duration

Plan 30-60 minutes just for the viewpoint, longer if you're hiking the Navajo Loop or walking the rim trail to other viewpoints

Getting There

Sunrise Point sits 18 miles south of Bryce Canyon City on Highway 63, about 1.5 miles south of the visitor center along the main park road. Parking fills fast. During peak season, you'll likely need to park at the visitor center and catch the free shuttle-it runs seasonally. Easy walk from Bryce Canyon Lodge if you're staying in the park. The viewpoint connects to parking via paved, accessible paths.

Things to Do Nearby

Sunset Point
Just 0.8 miles south along the rim trail, offering a different perspective of the amphitheater and genuinely better sunset views
Bryce Canyon Lodge
Historic 1925 lodge with dining, shopping, and that classic national park lodge atmosphere - worth a visit even if you're not staying there
Inspiration Point
About 1.5 miles away with a higher elevation view that gives you a broader perspective of the entire amphitheater system
Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail
The classic Bryce hiking experience that takes you down among the hoodoos - moderate difficulty and absolutely worth the effort
Fairyland Loop Trail
A longer, less crowded hiking option that starts near the park entrance and offers a different section of hoodoo formations

Tips & Advice

Arrive early in the morning or use the shuttle system during peak season - parking fills up fast and you might circle for a while looking for a spot
Bring layers even in summer; it's over 8,000 feet elevation here and temperatures can drop quickly, especially in the morning
The lighting changes dramatically throughout the day, so if you have time, try to visit at different times to see how the hoodoos change color
Consider combining your visit with a walk along the rim trail to Sunset Point - it's paved, relatively flat, and gives you multiple viewpoints for minimal effort

Tours & Activities at Sunrise Point

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