Sculpted by the hands of time, Bryce Canyon’s landscape is a panorama of soaring pinnacles, natural amphitheaters, ancient ponderosa pines, and crimson-colored hoodoos. Located just 15-minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park sits Under Canvas Bryce Canyon. With 750-acres of high mountain plains, our upscale accommodations are the perfect place to cool off and unwind after a day of Utah adventures. From slot canyon exploration to stargazing experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Bryce Canyon so visitors should be prepared with outdoor adventure gear for activities and weather in the American West. Our packing list for Bryce Canyon will help prepare you for an unforgettable glamping trip.
What to Pack for Summer in Bryce Canyon National Park
Summer is the most popular time to visit due to warm, comfortable temperatures for exploring this otherworldly landscape. But with its high elevation of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, Bryce Canyon weather differs from Utah’s other national parks with cooler temperatures ranging from 60-80°F during the day. It’s important to keep cool with lightweight clothing and sun protective layers when it’s hot but also be armed with an extra layer or two to keep cozy at night around the campfire.
T-shirts / Tank Tops
For daytime desert fun, you’ll want a few t-shirts or tank tops for optimal comfort. Try to avoid cotton and opt for a lightweight, moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable. A long-sleeve option would offer sun protection from intense rays at these high altitudes.
Lightweight Hiking Pants / Shorts
Lightweight, breathable pants are perfect for maneuvering through slot canyons, hiking Bryce Canyon trails, and hopping in and out of the car at the 13 different viewpoints along the scenic drive. Trust us, you’ll want to stop at them all since each one offers a different, spectacular perspective.
Lightweight Fleece / Rain Jacket
It’s all about layers in this desert climate. Grab a lightweight fleece for early morning adventures and to wear under your outer layer for nights spent stargazing around the campfire or in the park. Bryce National Park is a perfect place to gaze up at the night sky where you’ll be met with countless stars, planets, and the Milky Way that stretches across the horizon. Even in the desert, you can expect brief afternoon rain showers in July and August so a rain jacket or poncho will come in handy.
Sun Hat / Baseball Cap
Before you go, you’ll want to be prepared from head to toe. Hats are essential for protecting your face from the sun and keeping cool while you’re out and about. Forgot to pack one? Check out our lobby tent store for a selection of hats that provide protection from the sun and memories for the road home.
Comfortable Hiking and Outdoor Shoes
With all the time you’ll spend outside exploring the best hikes in Bryce Canyon and enjoying upscale amenities like outdoor dining, complimentary camp programming like live music, kids activities, and more at Under Canvas, you’ll want a combination of comfortable hiking shoes, running shoes, and Chaco-like sandals to grip the sandstone trails and protect your feet.
Cozy Slippers / Warm Socks
After a full day of adventure, retreat to your upscale safari-style tent for a warm shower in your private, en-suite bathroom and to slip into something cozy. Go ahead, wear your fuzzy socks and slippers as you enter a state of ultimate relaxation and connect with the nature that surrounds you.
Yoga Leggings / Shorts
Find your center during one of our complimentary morning yoga sessions. No need to bring your mat, we have lululemon mats and blocks for you to use during programming or at leisure during your stay.
What to Pack for Spring or Fall in Bryce Canyon National Park
The grandeur of Bryce Canyon National Park is breathtaking no matter what time of year. Many visitors enjoy visiting in spring to see the snow that often still caps the red rock hoodoos, blooming wildflowers, and newborn wildlife like wild elk and antelope. Come fall, chilly but sunny days make it a perfect time to peep colorful foliage and explore the best hikes in Bryce Canyon where you’ll find fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Long Sleeve T-shirts
For days exploring the park and evenings around camp, you’ll want to arm yourself with a long sleeve t-shirt or a short sleeve shirt with a sweatshirt layer over the top.
Sweatpants / Warm Athletic Pants
For daytime hiking and roaming around the campsite, pairs of warm sweatpants or leggings will keep you warm and cozy.
Puffer Jacket / Coat
Bryce Canyon sees much cooler temperatures during these times of the year and for this reason, you’ll want a warm outer layer for your days exploring the park and kicking back at camp.
Hat and Gloves
Keep your head and hands warm while roasting marshmallows, sipping a glass of wine at the camp’s fire pits, or enjoying locally sourced al fresco dining options.
Other Essentials to Pack for Bryce Canyon National Park
No matter what time of year you visit, there are a few items you’ll always need for your desert adventures. Sun protection, hydration, and dressing in layers are essential due to the dry, high elevation.
Daypack / Small Backpack
Stay hydrated and energized while exploring Bryce Canyon National Park by packing a nutritious camp-prepared lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and extra layers in a backpack. Remember to leave no trace by packing out what you pack in.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keep a water bottle close by to stay well hydrated. When you’re hiking, plan to drink about 32 oz of water for every two hours of hiking. At Under Canvas, we have filling stations for you in the lobby tent to refill your water bottle to fuel your adventures. If you forgot one, don’t sweat it, you can purchase one from our lobby tent store.
Camera
Prepare to be amazed by the extraordinarily sculpted landscape everywhere you look. Feel on top of the world and capture the moment at Yovimpa Point, the highest point in the park, where miles and miles of the Grand Staircase stretch out before you, and on clear days you can see the Grand Canyon. Tag us on Instagram and Facebook @undercanvasofficial for a chance to be featured during your time #OutsideTogether in and around Under Canvas.
Sun Protection
Prevent the dreaded sunburn during your time in the desert with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Stay moisturized with lip balm with an SPF rating of 15 or higher to keep protected. Under Canvas carries Sunbum sunscreen products for purchase at our store tent for your convenience.
*This Bryce Packing List is designed for stays at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, and exploring nearby Bryce Canyon National Park during the days. Under Canvas Bryce Canyon offers an upscale outdoor experience bringing you the comforts of home with a mindful approach.
Many of these items can be bought at the Under Canvas Bryce Canyon lobby tent store. Be sure to stop by and check out our gear during your stay.