Free Entrance Day Bonanza: Bryce Canyon & Beyond on April 19th, 2025!
Get ready to celebrate National Park Week in style! April 19th, 2025, marks the official start of this annual celebration, and to kick things off, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all fee-charging sites across the country. That’s right – it’s your chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Bryce Canyon and its incredible neighbors, all without paying an entrance fee!
Bryce Canyon’s Hoodoo Heaven
Let’s start with the star of the show: Bryce Canyon National Park. On April 19th, prepare to be mesmerized by its iconic hoodoos, those otherworldly rock spires that create a breathtaking amphitheater.
- Sunrise & Sunset Spectacles:Â Witness the canyon’s colors come alive with the rising and setting sun.
- Hiking Adventures:Â Embark on trails like the Navajo Loop or Queen’s Garden Trail for up-close encounters with the hoodoos.
- Stargazing:Â Bryce Canyon’s dark skies provide unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
Expanding Your National Park Week Adventure
Why stop at Bryce Canyon? With free entrance day, you can explore other incredible parks in the region:
Zion National Park (Approx. 1.5-hour drive):
- Experience the grandeur at Zion National Park with towering sandstone cliffs and the iconic Virgin River.
- Hike the majestic Angels Landing (permit required) or the scenic Riverside Walk.
- Enjoy the lush greenery contrasting with the red rock formations.
Capitol Reef National Park (Approx. 2.5-hour drive):
- Discover Capitol Reef Country featuring the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the earth’s crust.
- Explore petroglyphs, historic orchards, and stunning scenic drives.
- Hike through canyons and witness diverse geological formations.
Cedar Breaks National Monument (Approx. 30-minute drive):
- Similar to Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks showcases a spectacular amphitheater of colorful rock formations.
- Enjoy high-altitude views and wildflower meadows.
- It is located at over 10,000 feet, so be prepared for cooler temperatures.
Lodging near Bryce Canyon:
To fully maximize your free entrance day bonanza, consider making Ruby’s Inn your home base. Situated just outside Bryce Canyon’s entrance, Ruby’s Inn offers convenient access to the park’s wonders, allowing you to catch those breathtaking sunrise and sunset views with ease. Furthermore, its central location makes it an ideal hub for venturing out to Zion, Capitol Reef, and Cedar Breaks. After a day of exploring, you can relax in comfortable accommodations, enjoy on-site dining, and even browse the general store for souvenirs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable National Park Week experience.