Ranger Programs

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, or if you're in the park check our Ranger Program board in the park's Visitor Center.
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 September 30 (Summer)
Daily	11 a.m.	Hoodoo Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Most Days*	12:30 p.m.	Grand Staircase Geology Talk at Yovimpa Point
Most Days*	1:30 p.m.	Grand Staircase Geology Talk at Yovimpa Point
Daily	2 p.m.	Hoodoo Geology Talk at Sunset point
Daily	9 p.m.	Evening Program
Thu-Sat	Varies	Constellation Tours *Check at Visitor Center or online Calendar

October 1 - Memorial Day (Winter)
As staffing allows	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 12" of snow)*
As Staffing Allows	2 p.m.	Hoodoo Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Saturdays when staff is available	Varies*	Constellation tours Sign up at Visitor Center
		*Check at Visitor Center or online Calendar

 

Hoodoo Geology Talks

When: Daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.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.

 

Grand Staircase Geology Talks

When: 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., Most days Memorial Day through September 30
Where: Yovimpa Point
Duration: 20 minutes

The Grand Staircase is an incredible area covering much of Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. The rocks of the Grand Staircase, and the fossils found within, reveal the secrets of ancient environments that created much of the Colorado Plateau. Few places provide a better view from the top-down of this area than Bryce Canyon's Yovimpa Point. Join a ranger to see for yourself while you learn about one of the planet's most complete sedimentary records of the last 250 million years.

 

Evening Programs

When: Daily at 9 p.m., Memorial Day through September 30
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.

 

Constellation Tours

When: 9 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10 p.m. Thursday - Saturday nights, Memorial Day through September 30 (Only Saturdays October 1 - Memorial Day)
Where: Sign up at Visitor Center information area
Reservations Required
Duration: 15-20 minutes

Rangers with lasers will point out constellations visible in the night sky and educate visitors about the science and cultural history of astronomy and Bryce canyon's international dark sky park status. Check at the Visitor Center for availability, start times, and locations.

 

Full Moon Hikes

When: Year-round; 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 before 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: October 1 to Memorial Day: 1 p.m., when snowpack allows (must have at least 12")
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.

 

Telescopes

Not Occuring at this time (see Constellation Tour information)
Join a park ranger for a celebration of Bryce Canyon's unparalleled night skies. Explore the stories of the constellations, track the motions of stars and planets, gaze at distant galaxies, and more!

 

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.