As part of this year’s National Park Week and in honor of the National Park Service’s centennial year, Bryce Canyon National Park will offer free admission from April 16–24.
“National Park Week is a great time to visit Bryce Canyon for anyone who wants a budget-friendly vacation or getaway this spring,” said Falyn Owens, executive director of Garfield County’s tourism office. “This is especially good news for anyone who has never seen the park before and wants to see why it’s such a popular destination.”
Bryce Canyon offers a variety of outdoor activities for both thrill-seekers and families looking for a relaxing getaway. Hiking, camping, horseback riding, and canyoneering are some of the many ways to enjoy the unique terrain and scenic vistas.
“Visitors won’t want to miss driving along our scenic byways while they’re here for the National Park Week,” Owens said. “National Scenic Byway 12-Utah’s All-American Road is rated one of the top 10 drives in America, and Scenic Byway 143-Utah’s Patchwork Parkway is especially beautiful this time of year.”
Bryce Canyon is also home to the world’s largest collection of hoodoos, tall rock spires of varying colors and thickness. These rare geological formations are especially picturesque at sunrise and sunset when the bright sun casts shadows through the natural amphitheater.
“Spring is the best time to visit the park as we haven’t hit the busiest season yet, but the weather is ideal,” Owens said. “Our visitors love coming this time of year as prices are generally lower and crowds aren’t nearly as busy.”
As part of its centennial celebrations, the National Park Service has kicked off a multi-regional campaign called “Explore Five More” to help visitors discover other hidden gems just a short distance from the larger parks. Five gems around Bryce Canyon include Dixie National Forest, Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, Anasazi State Park, and The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
The National Park Service is inviting everyone to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2016. There are 15 more days in 2016 when entrance to any of the national parks is free.
Other free park days
April 16 through April 24: National Park Week
Aug. 25 through 28: National Park Service Birthday
Sept. 24: National Public Lands Day
Nov. 11: Veterans Day
