Is there a scenic drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon?

The scenic drive along Zion Mt. Carmel Highway continues past more red rocks and Checkerboard Mesa, a rock formation formed by erosion, shown above. The drive to Bryce Canyon takes just under 2 hours. Over the drive, you'll climb nearly 4,000 feet, so be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.



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The fastest route between the two parks starts on Route 12, takes you south on Interstate 89 and then west on Route 9. Route 12 is one of the most scenic roads in Utah, and all of the US for that matter, so this is a drive to enjoy.

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The Direct Route is safe - that said, you'll face sharp turns in the form of switchbacks. Switchbacks are roads with sharp ascents and descents cutting back one on another, so it's good to be prepared for this before you set off on your trip. If you're scared of heights, there's no need to be concerned.

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Should I Spend More Time in Zion or Bryce Canyon? Chances are, if you're heading to Bryce Canyon, you're probably also wanting to visit Zion National Park at the same time. These parks are only two hours apart, making it easy to see both! Zion definitely needs more time than Bryce Canyon.

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Yes, it is possible to see both Zion and Bryce Canyon in one day, but it will be one VERY FULL day. A lot depends on where you start and end your trip, of course.

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Ideally, plan to spend four days in Zion and Bryce Canyon combined. In Zion, spend two days exploring the canyon floor and hiking to scenic spots on the rims. Then, drive to Bryce Canyon and do some afternoon sightseeing. On the fourth day, hike on the canyon floor and explore the rest of the park.

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A Utah roadtrip route If you're only doing these two parks then it doesn't matter which you do first. If you're going over to the other Utah national parks (on the east side of the state), then it makes sense to do Zion first, then Bryce and head on east.

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If seeing the most breathtaking views of the southwest is your goal, Zion National Park might be a better choice. With its spectacular sandstone cliffs and deep canyons, it's hard to beat. There are also plenty of trails to explore and activities like rock climbing, canyoneering, and horseback riding.

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How long is the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive? Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is approximately 7 miles long. The up-canyon shuttle routes takes about 45 minutes to reach the last stop, Temple of Sinawava. The entire round-trip ride takes about an hour and a half.

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Bryce Canyon NP Scenic drive runs 18 miles along Highway 63 from Highway 12 until it ends at the south end of Highway 63 in Bryce Canyon National Park. Many of the park's highlights can be seen by the numerous overlooks.

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If you're only interested in seeing the highlights of Bryce Canyon and doing the scenic drive, one day is enough. If you plan to do some hiking too, I recommend spending 2 days in Bryce Canyon instead.

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Top cities between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. The top cities between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are Kanab and Cedar City. Kanab is the most popular city on the route. It's 1 hour from Zion National Park and 2 hours from Bryce Canyon National Park.

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We think one day in Bryce Canyon is just about the right amount of time to see the highlights of the park. It's a relatively small park, so there's really not that much to do and see. Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive – which is the main thoroughfare through the park – is only 19 miles long (one way).

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If you're looking for breathtaking views on a casual drive, give Utah's Byway 12, Byway 143, or Scenic Highway 89 a try! Bryce Canyon Country also has a long list of scenic byways and backways that lead to unique backcountry locations just waiting to be explored.

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Where to Stay BETWEEN Bryce Canyon and Zion. There are a few small towns between the two parks: Mount Carmel (near the East Entrance to Zion National Park), Orderville, Glendale and Hatch.

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No reservations are required to enter the park. Reservations for lodging within the park are highly recommended. Of the park's two campgrounds only Sunset Campground accepts reservations. All 100 sites are reservable on a 6-month rolling basis.

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No reservations are required to enter the park. Reservations for lodging within the park are highly recommended. Of the park's two campgrounds only Sunset Campground accepts reservations.

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The distance from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is roughly 160 miles (257 kilometers). The drive typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours. Bryce Canyon National Park is quite a bit further — 260 mi (418 km) from Las Vegas. You'd cover that distance in roughly 4 hours.

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Top ways to experience Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and nearby attractions. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 100% of travelers recommend this experience.

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The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is one of the park's most iconic historic structures. The Lodge and its surrounding motel structures are located a short walk from the park's iconic Bryce Amphitheater, and offer 114 rooms including lodge suites, motel rooms, and cabins. Reservations are highly recommended.

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