Would you visit Bryce Canyon in November but don’t know what to expect? This complete guide will show you everything you need to know if you visit Bryce Canyon National Park in November: weather, best places to visit, transportation options, and much more!
Bryce Canyon National Park is the second most visited national park in Utah, attracting over 2 million visitors every year. It’s no surprise, as Bryce Canyon is one of the most unique and beautiful parks in the USA. If you’re in the area, it’s a must-see destination.
Whether you’re visiting Utah, living nearby, or traveling through the USA on a road trip, don’t miss Bryce Canyon. Its special red rock formations, called hoodoos, offer breathtaking views from many spots in the large park.
Why visit in November? Many people wonder when the best time to visit Bryce Canyon is, and fall months, especially November, are a great choice.
Why exactly? You can read more about it below.
In this article, we focus on visiting Bryce Canyon in November. You’ll find helpful tips about what to expect, when to go, what to see and do, the best hiking trails, photography spots, where to stay, and more. This guide will give you everything you need to know for a perfect November visit to Bryce Canyon.
So let’s see in detail the most important questions and things to know about Bryce Canyon in November.
Is Bryce Canyon worth a visit in November?
Yes, we think Bryce Canyon is definitely worth visiting in November. A November trip has its pros and cons, but overall, it’s a great time to go and enjoy the beauty of the park.
Why is it worth visiting Bryce Canyon in November?
A trip to Bryce Canyon in November has several advantages, including:
- Smaller crowds: November has much fewer tourists, so you can explore the park more comfortably.
- Lower accommodation prices: November is off-season, meaning you can book places to stay at lower rates.
- Easier parking: With fewer people, finding a parking spot is much simpler.
- Chance to photograph snowy landscapes: Sometimes, you might even get the chance to capture snowy scenes in November.
Disadvantages of a trip in November
A November visit to Bryce Canyon also comes with some disadvantages, such as:
- Cold weather: Winter-like conditions are common in November, which can make travel around the area difficult, especially if it snows. Hiking outdoors may also be less enjoyable in cold weather.
- Early sunset: In November, it gets dark between 5:00 and 5:30 PM, so it’s a good idea to arrive early. Otherwise, you might not have enough time to explore the park before sunset.
- Possible road closures: Heavy snow may lead to road and trail closures. Additionally, maintenance work is more likely during the winter season, which can also result in closures.
- No shuttle service: From late October to early April, the shuttle bus service doesn’t operate, so you’ll need to rely on your own vehicle or private transportation to get around the park.
Weather in Bryce Canyon in November
November brings cooler temperatures and a touch of winter to Bryce Canyon National Park.
The weather can vary, but here’s what to expect:
- Daytime temperatures: Typically range from 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), making it cool but comfortable for outdoor activities if dressed properly.
- Nighttime temperatures: Nights are cold, often dropping below freezing, with averages between 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C).
- Snow: Light snowfall is possible, especially at higher elevations. The snow adds a magical touch to the red rock formations, but it can make trails slippery.
- Wind: Breezy conditions are common, so layers are recommended to stay warm.
Make sure to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and hiking boots. Check the weather forecast before your trip to prepare for any sudden changes.
Does it snow in Bryce Canyon in November?
Yes, it can snow in Bryce Canyon in November. While heavy snowstorms are uncommon this early in the season, light snowfall is possible.
The snow often adds a stunning contrast to the red rock hoodoos, turning the park into a stunning winter wonderland.
If you’re visiting in November, it’s a good idea to prepare for colder temperatures and potential snowy or icy conditions.
Best time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park
If November feels too cold for you, there are great opportunities to visit Bryce Canyon during other times of the year, too.
Fall (September to October) and late spring (May) are ideal times for comfortable weather and smaller crowds.
However, each season offers unique beauty, so the best time really depends on what you’re looking for.
Where to stay near the Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon City, located right next to Bryce Canyon, offers the closest accommodation options. However, you can also find excellent places to stay in nearby small communities.
Here are our recommendations for staying close to Bryce Canyon:
- Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel: Our personal choice. This three-star hotel in Bryce Canyon City is close to the national park and typically available at a good price. It’s a great option for a short stay.
- Bryce Glamp And Camp: If you’re looking for something more unique, consider glamping near Cannonville. This one-of-a-kind glamping experience is just a short drive from the park. While it’s a bit pricier, it’s worth it if you want a special place to stay.
North Campground: If you’re arriving by RV, we recommend the North Campground, located inside the park and very close to the viewpoints.
Best places not to miss during a November visit
November offers a peaceful and magical time to explore Bryce Canyon National Park. The cooler weather and fewer visitors make it ideal for taking in the park’s unique red rock formations and incredible views.
Here are the must-see spots and activities to enjoy during your visit:
1. Visitor Center
Start your visit at the Visitor Center, located near the park entrance and the ticket gates. Here, you can learn about the park, its unique formations, and the plants and animals that live there. You can also buy souvenirs to remember your trip.
2. Sunrise Point
One of the most famous viewpoints in Bryce Canyon. While it’s named for sunrise, it offers stunning views at any time of day. For example, our photos were taken in the afternoon.
From Sunrise Point, you’ll get your first view of the Bryce Amphitheater, home to some of the most impressive rock formations in the park.
Several popular hiking trails also start here, such as the Queen’s Garden Trail, the Fairyland Loop Trail, and the Horse Trail.
Along the way to Sunrise Point, you’ll find The Lodge at Bryce Canyon, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
3. Rim Trail
The Rim Trail runs along the canyon’s western edge, close to parking areas. This trail is perfect if you want to walk between viewpoints. It offers incredible views of the canyon below from almost every spot along the path.
4. Sunset Point
Our personal favorite viewpoint, and we highly recommend it. This spot is also the starting point for the Navajo Loop Trail, which we think is the best hiking trail in the area. Its eastern section includes a famous, winding path that’s popular on Instagram.
At Sunset Point and along the Navajo Loop Trail, you’ll see the famous Thor’s Hammer hoodoo, which is known for its unique shape and is a popular photo spot.
5. Inspiration Point
There are two Inspiration Points: Lower and Upper. The Lower Inspiration Point is closer to the parking lot, while the Upper Inspiration Point offers a wider panoramic view. Choose your favorite, or visit both!
6. Bryce Point
Bryce Point offers one of the best views of the Bryce Amphitheater, making it a must-visit spot during your trip. This viewpoint is also the starting point for several key hiking trails, including the Peekaboo Loop Trail and the Under-The-Rim Trail. If you’re an experienced hiker, we highly recommend the Peekaboo Loop Trail for its stunning scenery.
7. Paria View
If you have extra time, take a short detour to Paria View, located near Bryce Point. While the view isn’t as dramatic as other top spots, it’s still worth a quick visit for its unique perspective.
8. Scenic Drive
The park’s main road stretches 18 miles (29 km) from the entrance in the north to its end at Rainbow and Yovimpa Points in the south. The first 3 miles (4.8 km) cover the Bryce Amphitheater area, while the remaining 15 miles (24 km) make up the Southern Scenic Drive.
If time allows, we recommend stopping at these viewpoints along the drive:
- Swamp Canyon Overlook
- Farview Point
- Bryce Natural Bridge
- Pink Cliffs
- Agua Canyon Overlook
- Ponderosa Canyon
- Black Birch Canyon
- Rainbow Point
- Yovimpa Point
Each of these stops offers unique views and is worth visiting to fully experience the beauty of Bryce Canyon.
These are the best viewpoints, hiking trails, and must-visit spots if you’re traveling to Bryce Canyon in November.
It’s important to note that in November, you should prepare for winter-like conditions. This means there may be occasional closures in the park due to weather or maintenance work.
What to bring for a Bryce Canyon visit in November
Visiting Bryce Canyon in November requires some preparation, especially if you plan to hike.
Here’s a list of essential items to pack:
- Clothing: Dress warmly with winter clothes, including an insulated jacket. You might also need a hat and gloves for extra warmth.
- Hiking boots: Choose insulated, waterproof boots with good grip for hiking. If you’re not hiking, regular shoes might be enough.
- Backpack: Useful if you’re hiking or taking the shuttle.
- Sunglasses: Even in winter, they’re helpful on sunny days.
- Water: Stay hydrated, even in the cold weather.
- Snacks: Bring energy-rich snacks like granola bars or other easy-to-carry food.
- Smartphone or camera: To capture the stunning landscapes.
- Map: In case cell service is unreliable. You can get a park map at the entrance or Visitor Center.
With these essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy your November trip at Bryce Canyon.
Is Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park better in November?
Both parks can offer an amazing experience in November, but there are a few things to consider.
- The weather in Zion National Park might be slightly milder than in Bryce Canyon, but the difference is small.
- If it snows, Bryce Canyon becomes especially beautiful, offering unique photo opportunities.
- Access is simpler in Bryce Canyon. You can drive your car into the park and quickly reach its best spots. In Zion National Park, many areas are only accessible by shuttle. While some people like the shuttle service, others prefer the convenience of driving. Keep in mind, using the shuttle usually takes more time.
- This is personal preference, but we think Bryce Canyon has more unique views, with its special rock formations and landscapes.
Overall, both national parks are stunning and have a lot to offer. However, if we had to choose, we’d pick Bryce Canyon for its convenience and distinctive beauty.
Conclusion
Bryce Canyon in November is a peaceful and unique experience, perfect for anyone who loves nature, photography, or quiet adventures. The amazing hoodoos, glowing in the soft autumn light, and the less crowded trails make it a great time to visit.
While the colder weather and early sunsets can be challenging, the benefits—like fewer visitors, cheaper accommodations, and the chance to see snowy landscapes—make it worth the trip. With warm clothes, shoes, and a good plan, you can enjoy all the park’s beauty.
From the stunning views at Sunset Point to exploring scenic trails, Bryce Canyon in November offers unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing park during such a peaceful time!
