Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park are two of the most popular natural attractions in the western United States. Each park has its unique geological formations, scenic landscapes, and cultural history that attract millions of tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to these two national parks, one of the most important factors to consider is the distance between them. In this article, we will explore the distance between Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park, as well as the best mode of transportation, driving distance, duration of the journey, scenic route, estimated cost of travel, accommodations, and attractions near these parks.
Location of Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park are both located in the western United States. Bryce Canyon is situated in southern Utah, about 250 miles (402 km) south of Salt Lake City and 290 miles (467 km) northeast of Las Vegas. Arches National Park is located in eastern Utah, about 230 miles (370 km) southeast of Salt Lake City and 365 miles (587 km) west of Denver, Colorado. Both parks are known for their unique geological formations, such as hoodoos in Bryce Canyon and natural arches in Arches National Park.
Distance between Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
The distance between Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park is approximately 280 miles (450 km) by road. The shortest route between the two parks is to take US-89 north from Bryce Canyon to I-70 east, then take US-191 south to Arches National Park. This route takes around 5 hours and passes through scenic areas such as Capitol Reef National Park and the San Rafael Swell. Alternatively, you can take a more direct route by driving west on UT-12 to US-89, then south to I-70, and finally, take US-191 south to Arches National Park. This route takes around 4.5 hours, but you’ll miss out on some of the scenic areas.
Mode of Transportation to Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
The best way to get to Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park is by car. Both parks have parking areas near the main attractions, and having a car allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a flight to nearby cities such as Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, or Grand Junction and rent a car from there. There are also shuttle services available from nearby cities and towns to Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park.
Driving distance to Bryce Canyon from Arches National Park
The driving distance from Arches National Park to Bryce Canyon is approximately 280 miles (450 km). The most direct route is to take US-191 south to US-89, then head north to Bryce Canyon. This route takes around 4.5 hours and passes through scenic areas such as Canyonlands National Park and the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
Duration of Journey from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park
It takes around 5 hours to drive from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park, depending on the route you take and the traffic conditions. If you’re planning to visit both parks, it’s recommended to spend at least a day or two at each park to explore the main attractions and nearby areas.
Scenic Route from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park
The most scenic route from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park is to take US-89 north to UT-12, then head east to Escalante and Boulder. From there, take the Burr Trail Scenic Backway to Capitol Reef National Park, then continue on UT-24 to Goblin Valley State Park. Finally, take I-70 east to US-191 south to Arches National Park. This route takes around 7-8 hours, but it passes through some of the most stunning landscapes in Utah.
Estimated Cost of Travel from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park
The cost of travel from Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park depends on the mode of transportation, accommodations, and activities you choose. The cost of renting a car starts at around $40 per day, while shuttle services start at around $100 per person. Accommodations in nearby towns and cities range from budget motels to luxury resorts, with prices starting at around $50 per night. Park entrance fees are $35 per vehicle for Bryce Canyon and $30 per vehicle for Arches National Park.
Accommodations at Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park have a range of accommodations, including campgrounds, lodges, and hotels. In Bryce Canyon, there are two lodges operated by the National Park Service, as well as several private campgrounds and hotels in nearby towns. In Arches National Park, there is one campground operated by the National Park Service, as well as several private campgrounds and hotels in nearby Moab. It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
The best time to visit Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be very hot and crowded, while the winter months can be cold and snowy. The peak season for both parks is from May to September, so it’s recommended to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Attractions near Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park
There are several attractions near Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park, including other national parks, state parks, and scenic drives. Some of the nearby attractions include Capitol Reef National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Canyonlands National Park, and the Scenic Byway 12. In Arches National Park, you can also visit nearby parks such as Dead Horse Point State Park and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park.
Conclusion
Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park are two of the most beautiful natural attractions in the western United States. If you’re planning a trip to these parks, it’s important to consider the distance between them, as well as the best mode of transportation, driving distance, duration of the journey, scenic route, estimated cost of travel, accommodations, and attractions near these parks. With careful planning, you can make the most of your trip and experience the stunning landscapes and cultural history of these two national parks.
