What It’s Like at Bryce Canyon in May

Do you wonder what it’s like visiting Bryce Canyon in May?

Use the information below and our Bryce Canyon travel guide to see if May is the best time for you to visit!

We share everything you need to know about Bryce Canyon National Park in May: what to pack, where to stay, things to do and more!

Bryce Canyon National Park in May

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WHAT TO PACK FOR A NATIONAL PARK TRIP IN THE SPRING

Packing for a trip in the spring means being prepared for any type of weather!

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE US National Park Packing List!

1. US National Parks Pass

2.  Hiking Gear

  • Spring hiking at some national parks may mean wet trails, and even some patches of snow! You’ll want waterproof hiking boots.
  • Hiking socks that breath… and if they prevent blisters, that’s even better:  → Check out the BEST SOCKS by Darn Tough!
  • Walking stick or trekking poles

3. Clothing – Layers

4. Daypack

5. Other

TOP REASON TO VISIT BRYCE CANYON IN MAY

Amazing weather!! May temperatures are “just right” to enjoy Bryce Canyon activities

There are so many things to do at Bryce Canyon National Park like hiking, biking, horseback riding and more.

You’ll enjoy the cooler mornings and evenings, and warmer days that aren’t “too hot”.

There’s not much shade on along the trails at Bryce Canyon, so having moderate temperatures is a big reason to visit in May!

BIGGEST DRAWBACK

One drawback for a trip to Bryce Canyon in May is the crowds.

Utah National Parks are busy during the peak seasons of spring, summer and fall so be prepared for crowds.

Our big tip to avoid the crowds is to get into the park early. You can’t beat the sunrise at Bryce Canyon and hiking in the morning!

hike at Bryce Canyon windows

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE GOING

Does the Shuttle Run in May?

In May the Bryce Canyon shuttle runs every day. Riding the shuttle is not mandatory.

The buses bring visitors to the Bryce Amphitheater area of the park.

The Rainbow Bus tour provides a shuttle-based exploration of the Bryce Canyon scenic drive, which can also be accessed by private vehicle.

**Be sure to check the shuttle schedule for exact dates for the month of May.

Weather at Bryce Canyon in May

May weather at Bryce Canyon National Park is pretty much perfect, but be prepared for rain just in case. Always check the weather forecast so you have the right clothing for the conditions.

Due to the high elevation, the temperatures at Bryce in May are still on the cooler side. The highs are usually in the low 60s and the lows are in the low 30s. The mornings and evening will be cool so you’ll want a fleece jacket. Layers are best for all-day activities. 

Does Bryce Canyon National Park Close in May?

Bryce Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, all year long.

We’ve put together a resource of the best time to visit Bryce Canyon if you’re interested in what it’s like at different seasons and months of the year.

Can you drive through Bryce Canyon in May?

In May the shuttles are running, but you can drive your car to the various Bryce Canyon views and photo spots along the scenic drive.

You can also drive and park at the various amphitheater lots. Parking could be an issue so again, we recommend exploring the park in the morning or later in the day.

THINGS TO DO IN MAY

There are a ton of things to do at Bryce Canyon National Park any time of year. Below are the activities you can do in May.

Scenic Drive

The Bryce Canyon scenic drive offers views of hoodoos, arches and windows at various viewpoints and overlooks.

We always recommend you start by driving to the end of the road at Rainbow Point then working your way back to the amphitheater. This way all the overlooks are on the right so it’s easy to pull in and out of each parking lot.

Hiking

Bryce Canyon hikes are the best way to explore this National Park that encompasses over 35,000 acres of picturesque expansive views!

There are easy, moderate and strenuous trails at Bryce Canyon to accommodate all levels of hikers.

If a storm rolls through, you may find closed trails due to unsafe conditions.

The Wall Street side of the Navajo Loop might be closed in April, but the Two Bridges side of the Navajo Loop remains open. The Navajo Loop Queen’s Garden trail is great for a down-and-back hiking experience.

When hiking at Bryce Canyon keep in mind:

Photography

The best time to photograph the park is sunrise. The colors are vibrant and the light creates a spectacular glow on the multi-colored hoodoos that cannot be missed.

People come from around the world to see the amazing Bryce Canyon views.

Check out our Bryce Canyon photography guide with tips and best times to take pictures at each viewpoint!

Our favorite sunrise photo spots at Bryce Canyon are Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point.

Be sure to download our camera gear checklist before arriving at the park to make sure you have everything you need. 

And since May mornings will still be cold, we like to use photographer gloves and keep rechargeable hand warmers in our jacket pockets!

Ranger Led Programs

In May, there will be fun ranger led programs running at Bryce Canyon:

  • Hoodoo Geology Talk
  • Rim Walk Showshoe Hike
  • Constellation Tours

Check the Visitor Center or online for updated information

Plan Your Bryce Canyon Vacation

Where to Stay near Bryce Canyon:

national park packing lists

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