The best road cycling routes around Bryce Canyon City

There are 5 road cycling routes around Bryce Canyon City featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate rides, allowing cyclists to explore the stunning landscapes of the region.

The routes around Bryce Canyon City cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed ride, and 2 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge and elevation gain.

Yes, the region offers excellent family-friendly options. The Bryce Canyon Multi-use Path – Lower Inspiration Point loop from The Pine Hills is an easy route that utilizes the paved, vehicle-free Bryce Canyon Shared-Use Path. This path connects the Visitor Center with iconic overlooks and is ideal for a safe and scenic ride away from traffic. Additionally, the Red Canyon Paved Bike Trail, often called 'Little Bryce,' offers a scenic, non-motorized alternative to Highway 12, which is great for families.

The road cycling routes around Bryce Canyon City feature diverse terrain, from paved multi-use paths to sections of scenic byways. You can expect significant elevation changes, especially on longer routes like those incorporating parts of Scenic Byway 12, which can range from 5,223 feet to 9,636 feet. Even the easier routes, such as the Lower Inspiration Point loop from Bryce Canyon City, include gentle climbs and descents, offering rewarding views.

The Bryce Canyon area is renowned for its unique geological formations. While cycling, you can experience the vibrant red, orange, and white hues of the iconic hoodoos, especially visible from viewpoints like Sunset Point and Sunrise Point. The Thor’s Hammer (hoodoo) and the Queen's Garden Hoodoos are also spectacular sights. Many routes, like the Lower Inspiration Point – Red Canyon Arch loop from Bryce Canyon City, pass through or near the stunning Red Canyon, known for its impressive red rock formations and towering pines.

The best time for road cycling in Bryce Canyon City is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with less chance of snow or extreme cold. Summer offers warm days, but mornings and evenings are ideal for cycling. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the moderate Red Canyon Arch – Lower Inspiration Point loop from Black Mountain and the easier Lower Inspiration Point loop from Bryce Canyon City. These circular routes provide a convenient way to explore the area without needing a shuttle.

Parking is generally available at key access points for the routes. For rides within Bryce Canyon National Park, parking is available at the Visitor Center and various viewpoints. For routes utilizing the Red Canyon Paved Bike Trail, you can often find parking near Ruby's Inn or other designated trailheads along Highway 12. Always check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Bryce Canyon City, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the breathtaking scenery, the unique geological formations like the hoodoos, and the well-maintained paved paths that offer a safe and immersive way to explore the national park and surrounding areas. The variety of routes, from easy scenic rides to more challenging climbs, is also a highlight.

While the routes in this guide are primarily day trips, the region is part of the larger Scenic Byway 12 (All-American Road), a 124-mile route considered one of America's most scenic roads. This byway offers significant elevation changes and connects various national parks and monuments, making it suitable for experienced cyclists looking for multi-day touring opportunities. For more information on this iconic route, you can visit Visit Utah's guide to Scenic Byway 12.

Yes, cycling is permitted on the paved roads within Bryce Canyon National Park. However, for a safer and more enjoyable experience, especially for families, the park also offers the Bryce Canyon Shared-Use Path. This dedicated paved path runs parallel to the main road for several miles, connecting the Visitor Center with popular overlooks and allowing cyclists to avoid vehicle traffic.