Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in March
Are you wondering what it’s like to visit Bryce Canyon National Park in March?
Use this Bryce Canyon travel guide to plan your vacation: things to do, what to pack, where to stay, weather conditions and more!
It’s important to note the weather at Bryce Canyon in March is cold, and winter snow storms may create challenging travel conditions and road closures.
To plan your March vacation, check out these done-for-you Bryce Canyon itineraries:
- Bryce Canyon National Park One Day Itinerary
- Two days in Bryce Canyon National Park
- Three Days in Bryce Canyon National Park
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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 March
Bryce Canyon is a popular Utah National Park and it gets crowded during the peak seasons of summer and fall. You can’t beat visiting the park without the crowds and the offseason rates in March.
Yes, there will probably be snow at Bryce Canyon in March, but that’s what makes it magical! The colorful hoodoos really pop against the white snow.
Snow is also the biggest drawback for a February trip to Bryce Canyon. If you’re not a fan of exploring the outdoors in cold weather or snowy conditions, then you should probably skip visiting this park in the winter.
The main Bryce Canyon scenic drive could be closed due to weather and road conditions, which means you’ll only be able to see the amphitheater section of the park.
But the amphitheater is the most amazing part of the park, and you’ll be able to see, photograph and explore it more intimately than you would during the peak seasons.
Getting to Bryce Canyon in March
Driving to Bryce Canyon in March takes some advanced planning compared to driving there in the summer due to it’s remote and mountainous location.
Our biggest tip is to watch the weather forecast and consider other options and routes if snow is expected. The narrow and steep backcountry roads to get to Bryce Canyon may not be plowed, and can be very scary in the snow!
Once you get to Bryce Canyon, the main road and major parking lots are usually plowed quickly after a storm. Check the Bryce Canyon Conditions Page for road status.
Weather at Bryce Canyon in March
When visiting Bryce Canyon in March you can expect it to be cold. Bryce Canyon’s elevation is 9,100 feet which means spring is still cold with the possibility of rain and snow storms.
The Bryce Canyon National Park weather can change at any time so it’s important to be prepared for cold and snow. Average temperatures in March average between 44 and 19 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s cold!
With the right cold weather clothing, you can enjoy the outdoor adventures at Bryce!
Bryce Canyon Services in March
Bryce Canyon is open all year round. In March the visitor center is open each day from 8 am to 4:30 pm.
The Bryce Canyon shuttle doesn’t run in the winter or early spring. The shuttle service runs mid April through mid October. Check the NPS website for specific service dates.
Take note that in March there will be two roads closed to vehicles: Fairyland Point and Paria View. They remain open for anyone who wants to hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski in those areas.
Even though Bryce Canyon is open, you may find the main road closed beyond the amphitheater following a snowstorm. The park closes the road beyond mile marker 3 so snow plow crews can clear snow from the higher elevations along the southern scenic drive. The road closure typically last a day or so, depending on the severity of the snowstorm.
They always play the first three miles of the main road first. This includes the Bryce Amphitheater area: Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point.
Check out all you need to know for Bryce Canyon camping in the winter! March isn’t necessarily “winter”, but it will feel like it at Bryce!
Things to Do at Bryce Canyon in March
You’ll find many Bryce Canyon winter activities to enjoy in March. It’s a great time of year to enjoy outdoor winter activities and avoid the crowds!
Bryce Canyon Visitor Center in March
We recommend you stop at the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, especially in March. It’s important to find out the latest road conditions, hiking trail conditions and talk to the ranger to see if they have any tips for things to do while visiting.
It’s also good to ask about the weather forecast and what ranger-led programs at Bryce Canyon are happening during your stay. If you are traveling with kids you will want to grab Junior Ranger booklets as well.
The services at the Visitor Center include:
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Backcountry permits
- First Aid
- Ranger Help Desk
- Book Store
- Twenty Minute Introduction Movie
- Exhibits
Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive in March
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.
In March, the road from the Amphitheater to Rainbow Point might be closed due to a snow storm.
We recommend the Bryce Canyon GyPSy Guide App to hear fun behind-the scenes stories and local tips that play automatically as you drive, based on your GPS location.
Bryce Canyon Photography in March
Capturing Bryce Canyon photos is amazing any time of year! Be sure to download our camera gear checklist before arriving at the park to make sure you have everything you need.
Anywhere along the rim between Sunrise Point and Bryce Point is a good spot for Bryce Canyon sunrise photography.
Since March will still be cold, we like to use photographer gloves and keep rechargeable hand warmers in our coat pockets!
If you want detailed tips and best times to take pictures at each viewpoint, take a look at our Bryce Canyon Photography Guide!
Bryce Canyon Stargazing in March
Stargazing at Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-do activity. It’s worth braving the cold night air in March to see the sky full of stars on a moonless night!
It will be easy to see why Bryce Canyon is one of Utah’s International Dark Sky Parks.
Bryce Canyon Hiking in March
There are so many great Bryce Canyon hikes to go on while visiting in March, but there are two trails that will be closed.
The Wall Street side of the Navajo Loop is closed, but the Two Bridges side of the Navajo Loop remains open for down-and-back hiking along the Navajo Loop Queen’s Garden trail.
And the Rim Trail between Inspiration and Bryce Points may also still be closed in March.
Be prepared with winter hiking gear at Bryce Canyon in March:
- Wear winter hiking boots or snowshoes
- Carry lots of water – we like hydration backpacks
- Dress in layers
- Use crampons and winter hiking poles for extra grip and support
Some great easy hikes include Sunset to Sunrise, Rim Trail, Bristlecone Loop, and Mossy Cave.
With all trails keep in mind that snow is only cleared from sidewalks as well as the overlooks. The snow can become muddy and slippery so you want to be extremely careful while hiking.
You may need traction devices on some trails. And some trails may close due to bad conditions. Check with the visitor’s center for the most current trail conditions. Traction devices can be rented in Bryce Canyon City.
Bryce Canyon Backpacking in March
Bryce Canyon backpacking is hard throughout the year, but it is even more difficult in March when there’s snow and freezing temperatures. You must be a very experienced hiker to be issued a permit in the winter months.
Bryce Canyon Cross Country Skiing in March
One of the best ways to explore Bryce Canyon in March is cross country skiing. Bryce Canyon maintains miles of trails in the winter. If you are coming from out of town you can rent ski equipment in Bryce Canyon City.
Things To Do Near Bryce Canyon in March
- Bryce Canyon to Zion
- Zion National Park Travel Guide
- Visiting Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
- Best Stops Along Scenic Byway 12
- Capitol Reef National Park Guide
- Lower Calf Creek Falls Hiking Guide
Check Amazon for: Bryce Canyon Guides and Maps
Plan Your Bryce Canyon Vacation
- Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park
- Bryce Canyon Packing List
- Things to Do at Bryce Canyon National Park
- Bryce Canyon Photo Spots
- Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon
- Bryce Canyon Tours
Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon:
- Bryce Canyon Places to Stay
- Bryce Canyon Hotels
- Bryce Canyon Winter Lodging
- Bryce Canyon National Park Camping
- Bryce Canyon National Park RV Vacation
- Vacation Rentals Near Bryce Canyon
- Best Western Ruby’s Inn – easy access right outside the park
- Best Western Plus – also right outside the park
