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 (Summer)
Daily	11 a.m.	Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Daily	1 p.m.	Rim Walk at Sunset Point
Daily	2 p.m.	Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Daily	4 p.m.	Rim Walk at Sunset Point
Sun-Wed	8 p.m.	Evening Program at Lodge
Thu-Sat	9 p.m.	Evening Program at North Campground Amphitheater
Thu-Sat	10 p.m.	Telescopes at Visitor Center

October through Memorial Day (Winter)
Daily	11 a.m.	Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Daily	1 p.m.	Rim Walk or Snowshoe Hike
Daily	2 p.m.	Geology Talk at Sunset Point
Some Saturdays*	Varies	Telescopes at Visitor Center
		*When staffing allows; check at Visitor Center or online

 

Geology Talks

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

 

Rim Walks

Memorial Day to Labor Day: 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Labor Day to Memorial Day: 1 p.m. (See Note)*
Where: Sunset Point
Duration: 75 minutes - 1/2 Mile

Great views, fascinating plant and wildlife stories, a touch of geology and a wealth of cultural history - what more could you ask for? Join a park ranger for an overview of Bryce Canyon as you stroll along the rim of the Main Amphitheater. No reservations are required.

*Note: In winter, this program is replaced with a snowshoe hike when snowpack permits.

 

Evening Programs

Memorial Day to Labor Day
Sunday - Wednesday: 8 p.m. in the Lodge Auditorium
Thursday - Saturday: 9 p.m. at the North Campground Amphitheater
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 Lodge for topics, start times, and locations.

 

Telescopes

Memorial Day to Labor Day: Thursday - Saturday at 10 p.m. at the Visitor Center
Labor Day to Memorial Day: Some Saturdays (Depending on staffing)
Duration: 90 minutes
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!

 

Full Moon Hikes

Year-round
Where: Lotteries held at 4 PM at Visitor Center (November-March) and Bryce Canyon Lodge Auditorium (April-October)
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

Labor Day to Memorial Day: 1 p.m. when snowpack allows
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: High Plateaus Institute
Duration: 1 hr.

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. Check at the visitor center for program topic and age requirements. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No reservations required.