Ranger Programs

Modified Ranger Program Schedule

Evening Programs

Offered at 8:30 p.m. Sunday - Wednesday at the North Campground Outdoor Theater.

Night Sky Telescope Programs 

Offered Friday and Saturday nights at 10 p.m. at the Visitor Center. Same-day sign-up required at Visitor Center 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. On typical days spaces for this program can fill by 9 a.m.

Geology Talks

Daily at 11 a.m. at Sunset Point.

 

Ranger Programs and the Weather

Ranger programs are sometimes cancelled for inclement weather. In the summer months, this is typically due to thunderstorms when lightning is within 8 miles. In winter, typically snowstorms and windchills of 10 F / -12 C and below.

 

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Ranger Programs

We have something for everyone year-round. Ranger programs are always free, though some (such as winter snowshoe hikes and full moon hikes) require advance sign-up or are subject to a lottery. Visit our calendar page for current and any special programming beyond the standard programs offered below.

Note: All outdoor programs are weather-dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather. This is often lightning and thunderstorms in summer, and outdoor air temperatures or combined wind chill temperatures below 10°F (-12.2°C) in winter.

Memorial Day through Labor Day Core Programs (Summer)
Daily	11 a.m.	Hoodoo Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Sun-Wed	8:30 p.m.	Evening Program at North Campground Outdoor Theater
Fri-Sat	Varies	Night Sky Telescope Program Same-day in person reservations required see Rangers at the visitor center 8:00 a.m. until full.

Labor Day - Memorial Day Core Programs (Winter)
Daily	11 a.m.	Hoodoo Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Not Being Offered at this Time	1 p.m.	Rim Walk at Sunset Point or Snowshoe Hike (Requires at least 14" of snow)*
As staffing allows	Varies	Constellation tours Sign up at Visitor Center
		*Check at Visitor Center or online Calendar

 

Hoodoo Geology Talks

When: Daily at 11 a.m., year-round
Where: Sunset Point
Duration: 20 minutes
Geologists have spent years studying the unique story of Bryce Canyon. Join the Ranger as we discuss the current scientific explanation behind Bryce Canyon's unique geologic history from ancient lakes to the power of erosion. Stop by the visitor center for current information. No reservations needed.

 

Evening Programs

When: Sunday - Wednesday at 8:30 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day
Where: Outdoor Theater (south of North Campground)
Duration: 45 minutes

Evening programs offer an in-depth look at some of the compelling stories and interesting resources that Bryce Canyon National Park protects. Check at the Visitor Center or our online Calendar for topics.

 

Night Sky Telescope Tours

When: ~10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Memorial Day to Labor Day. On Saturdays when staffing permits from Labor Day to Memorial Day.
Where: Sign up same-day at Visitor Center Information Desk 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. On typical days, spaces for this program can fill by 9 a.m.
Duration: 1.5 hours

Rangers with lasers will point out constellations visible in the night sky and use telescopes to educate visitors about the science and cultural history of astronomy and Bryce canyon's International Dark Sky status.

 

Full Moon Hikes

When: Year-round, on full moon nights as staffing permits; see link below for dates
Where: This program is held via lottery, which occurs at 4 p.m. the day of the hike. Stop by the Visitor Center to obtain a same-day lottery ticket at 4 p.m.
Duration: 1-2 miles, 2-3 hours
Join one of Bryce Canyon's "Night Sky Rangers" for a nocturnal adventure. These highly popular hikes are only offered during the full moon. Flashlights are prohibited and "lug traction" footwear is required. Children must be age 8 or older. Visit our Full Moon Hike page for more information.

 

Snowshoe Hikes

When: Labor Day to Memorial Day: 1 p.m., when snowpack and staffing allows (must have at least 14")
Where: Sign-up at Visitor Center between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Duration: 1½ - 2½ hrs. 1-2 miles, moderately strenuous
Winters at Bryce offer views of a sparkling wonderland under a crystal blue sky, plenty of solitude, and most years, enough snow for snowshoeing! Accompany a park ranger for a snowshoe hike and we will supply the snowshoes! Learn about the winter ecology of our park and how hoodoos are the product of the winter struggle between ice and sun. Children must be age 8 or older. More information about Winter Activities.

 

Kids Programs

When: Summer, days vary
Where: Visitor Center Plaza

All of Bryce Canyon's ranger programs are family friendly, but these in particular are fun for kids and parents alike. Rangers present a wide range of programs appealing to a variety of interests. Children must be accompanied by an adult.