Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in July

Bryce Canyon is a stunning natural wonder in southern Utah that offers a unique experience during the summer months. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in July.

Use this Bryce Canyon travel guide to plan your trip in July: weather, what to pack, where to stay, things to do and more!

visiting bryce canyon in july

July is a busy time at Bryce Canyon so be prepared for crowds. Keep reading for tips to beat the crowds during your Bryce Canyon vacation in the summer!

Use this guide to help you decide if a July vacation to Bryce Canyon is the right time for you to enjoy outdoor adventures at this park.

Check out these done-for-you Bryce Canyon itineraries to plan your trip based on the time you have to spend at the park:

Bryce Canyon Travel Bundle
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A Photo Tour of Bryce Canyon National Park

Take a visual tour through Bryce Canyon National Park to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!

Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in July

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

The July weather is perfect to enjoy these outdoor Bryce Canyon activities. The mornings and evenings will be cool and the daytime temperatures will be just right!

Summer months at all Utah National Parks are peak times so be prepared for crowds.

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

Does the Bryce Canyon Shuttle Run in July?

Yes, in July the Bryce Canyon shuttle runs every day, but it’s not mandatory to ride the shuttle to access the park. The shuttle buses take visitors to the Bryce Amphitheater area of the park.

Check the Bryce Canyon NP shuttle schedule for exact times of operation in July.

Weather at Bryce Canyon in July

The Bryce Canyon National Park Weather in July is just right, not too hot and not too cold! Highs are near 80 and lows near 50 degrees F.

Be prepared for rain since the summer monsoons begin in July. Always check the Bryce Canyon NP weather forecast and carry rain gear so you can still enjoy the outdoors.

During the rainy season in July, afternoon thunderstorms can produce heavy rain and frequent lightning. The park has the reminder “when thunder roars go indoors!” because lightning is dangerous at Bryce Canyon!

When is the Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon?

Bryce Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, all year long. Check out our resource of the best times to visit Bryce Canyon that includes specific information about what it’s like at different seasons and months of the year.

Bryce Canyon in the winter is a fun time to enjoy winter activities and avoid the crowds if you don’t mind cold and snow!

Things To Do at Bryce Canyon in July

Here’s a list of Bryce Canyon National Park summer activities: hiking, biking, horseback riding, photography, camping, and more!

Bryce Canyon Visitor Center in July

Check out the Visitor Center when you first arrive to talk with the park ranger about the activities you plan to do. They will share important things to know as well as the conditions of the hiking trails. Check out what Bryce Canyon ranger-led programs are available in July.

The services at the Visitor Center include:

  • Restrooms
  • Drinking Water
  • Backcountry permits
  • First Aid
  • Ranger Help Desk
  • Book Store
  • Twenty Minute Introduction Movie
  • Exhibits
Natural Bridge at Byrce Canyon National Park
Natural Bridge

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive in July

We recommend exploring the Bryce Canyon scenic drive to see all of park’s points of interest. At each overlook you’ll see different views of hoodoos, arches and windows.

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

Check out the Bryce Canyon GuideAlong App to hear fun behind-the scenes stories and local tips that play automatically as you drive, based on your GPS location. It’s a great way to have a tour guide in your car as you drive!

hikers on the Navajo Loop trail at Bryce Canyon
Hikers on the Navajo Loop trail

Bryce Canyon Hiking in July

You’ll find easy, moderate and strenuous Bryce Canyon National Park summer hikes to accommodate all levels of hikers. Hiking is the best way to explore Bryce Canyon and see the hoodoos and windows up close!

In July some trails may be closed due to unsafe conditions caused by the heavy monsoon rains. Always check with the visitor center before heading out on any trail.

The one hike we always recommend is the Navajo Loop Queen’s Garden trail. Sometime the Wall Street side of the Navajo Loop is closed, but you can take the Two Bridges side of the Navajo Loop to complete this hike.

Hiking at Bryce Canyon means going down into the canyon then back up. Going down is fairly easy, but going back you’ll find steep canyon trails that can be tough!

Mossy Cave photo spot at Bryce Canyon
Mossy Cave hiking trail

Bryce Canyon Photography in July

Bryce Canyon sunrise photography is spectacular because the light creates a glow on the multi-colored hoodoos that cannot be missed. In July you’ll want to focus on sunrise and sunset, and avoid the harsh light during the day.

There’s a reason people come from around the world to see the amazing Bryce Canyon views. Be sure to take pictures at all the overlooks along the scenic drive and amphitheater!

Check out our Bryce Canyon Photography Guide with tips and best times to photograph each viewpoint!

We’ve got a free Bryce Canyon photo spots checklist you can download as well!

Stargazing in July at Bryce Canyon

You’ll be amazing at the endless sky of stars you’ll see here! Stargazing at Bryce Canyon is a must-do activity. We recommend you take one night to head out and just look up!

The Milky Way is visible in July from 10:30 pm to 3:45 am.

Check out all the astronomy and night sky programs available at Bryce Canyon.

bryce canyon biking shared use path
Biking at Bryce Canyon

Biking in July at Bryce Canyon

From Bryce Canyon City to Inspiration Point, this 5 mile section of road is available to bikers to ride. The elevation gain is 746 going north to south. You can also take the park shuttle to Inspiration Point then ride back going downhill.

All viewpoints, the Lodge, Visitor Center and Shuttle Station have bike racks so you can stop at various places in the park to explore the area.

There’s an 18-mile Shared-Use Path connecting Red Canyon with Inspiration Point. Pedestrians, leashed pets, cyclists, skaters, longboards, non-motorized scooters and wheelchairs can use this path.

You can rent bikes in Bryce Canyon City. Read more about biking at Bryce Canyon and the Shared-Use Path.

horseback-riding-bryce-canyon-national-park-utah-jennifer-wolff
Horseback Riding at Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon National Park Tours in July

Whether you’re looking for a half-day or full-day excursion, there are plenty of Bryce Canyon National Park Tours available to fit your needs: guided hikes, horseback riding, photography, and ATV experiences!

Bryce Canyon Camping in July

In July you’ll find two campgrounds near the Visitor Center and Amphitheater for Bryce Canyon National Park camping.

Due to the high elevation at Bryce Canyon (8,900 feet above sea level), be sure to pack for the weather conditions. The temperatures drop at night, so it’s important to be prepared.

July is a busy time so finding camping spots in the park can be difficult. Check out the various Bryce Canyon National Park RV campsites near the park as well.

If you’re ok with getting of the grid, there are places for boondocking near Bryce Canyon.

Or you can elevate your camping experience to enjoy glamping near Bryce Canyon National Park!

Bryce Canyon maps and guides

Check Amazon for: Bryce Canyon Guides and Maps

Things To Do Near Bryce Canyon

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon in July

Bryce Canyon Packing List

The climate and altitude of Bryce Canyon can be harsh if you’re not prepared with the right clothing, hydration, food, personal items and hiking gear. To help you know what to pack for your July trip, check out our Bryce Canyon Packing List! Click the graphic below to get your free checklist download!

get the free Bryce Canyon National Park packing lists

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