Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Individuals 16 and older entering the park on motorcycle, bike, or foot are charged
$12 each; those 15 and under are admitted free. Campsites cost $15 per night.
Backcountry permits are required for all overnight trips into the backcountry,
and for up to 7 days cost $5 for one or two people, $10 for three to six people, and
$15 for 7 to 15 people (group sites only). Backcountry camping is permitted on only
two trails (details are available at the visitor center).
REGULATIONS & WARNINGS
Hikers should practice minimum-impact techniques.
All hikers are prohibited from building fires and must carry their own water, as
water sources in the backcountry are unreliable. Bicycles are prohibited in the
backcountry and on all trails. Feeding or disturbing wildlife, vandalism, and upset-
ting any natural feature of the park are all prohibited. Pets, which must be leashed
at all times, are prohibited on all trails, in the backcountry, and in public buildings.
Trailers are not permitted beyond Sunset Campground; they can be left at a
campsite, at the visitor center, or in other designated parking areas. Any vehicle
longer than 25 feet (large trucks and motor homes, for instance) cannot go to Paria
View.
While most visitors to Bryce Canyon enjoy an exciting vacation without mishap,
accidents can occur, and here—possibly because of the nature of the trails—the
most common injuries by far are sprained, twisted, and broken ankles. Park
rangers strongly recommend that hikers—even those out on short day hikes—wear
sturdy hiking boots with good traction and ankle support.
A concern in the park in recent years has been
bubonicplague,
which, contrary
to popular belief, is treatable with antibiotics if caught early. The bacteria that
cause bubonic plague have been found on fleas in prairie dog colonies in the park,
so you should avoid contact with wild animals, especially prairie dogs and oth-
er rodents. Those taking pets into the park should dust them with flea powder.
Avoiding contact with infected animals will greatly minimize the chances of con-
tracting the plague, but caution is still necessary.
Symptoms, which generally occur from 2 to 6 days after exposure, may include
high fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and swollen glands. Anyone with these
symptoms following a park visit should get medical attention immediately, be-
cause the plague can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Bryce Canyon National Park
