Epic Adventures in Bryce Canyon: Hoodoos, Hikes, and a Spectacular Super Full Moon! by Jared Harding Wilson

by Jared Harding Wilson

Utah boasts five stunning National Parks—Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Zion, and the mesmerizing Bryce Canyon. If you’ve never heard of this hoodoo-filled wonderland, let me, Jared Harding Wilson, introduce you through my recent trip. It’s an otherworldly landscape of colorful rock spires that will leave you in awe, with practical tips, fun trivia, and hiking advice to plan your own visit.

Bryce Canyon isn’t a true canyon but a series of natural amphitheaters carved by erosion. Named after Mormon pioneer Ebenezer Bryce, who quipped it was “a hell of a place to lose a cow,” the park owes much of its fame to photographer J.W. Humphrey, who called publicizing it his life’s greatest accomplishment. It’s also been a filming location for movies over the decades—look for trail signs listing them!

With dozens of trails (around 41, totaling about 60 miles), there’s something for everyone, from easy rim walks to challenging descents.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation at Ruby’s Inn

We drove 3.5 hours from Provo and arrived at the historic Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, just outside the park entrance. I wish I had taken a picture. The pic below is from online of Ruby’s Inn. 🏨 They had it all decked out beautifully for Christmas with lights and decorations.

Founded in 1916 by Reuben “Ruby” Syrett and his wife Minnie as a tourist camp, it’s grown into a Western-themed complex with its own restaurant, grocery store, post office, and multiple buildings—feels like a little town!

We checked in, swam in the fantastic indoor pool to unwind, and enjoyed a delicious dinner buffet at the on-site restaurant. Perfect way to ease into vacation mode. Pro tip: Get the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annual) for unlimited access to national parks—it saves big if you visit more than a couple!

Day 2: Clear Skies and Epic Hiking

After a hearty buffet breakfast at the lodge (unlimited refills—yes please!), we headed into the park. Overnight, the weather cleared to perfect blue skies with fluffy clouds—such a relief after foggy arrival worries.

We started at Sunset Point for breathtaking amphitheater views, then descended the Navajo Loop Trail (1.3 miles, moderate), weaving among towering hoodoos.

Fun highlight: One hoodoo top looked exactly like a giant head—we dubbed it “Mr. Head”! (Photo attached in my original shots—hilarious pareidolia moment.)

Next, more views from Sunset Point again (worth revisiting!), then the Visitor Center with engaging displays on geology, history, and wildlife. We packed a picnic lunch at a scenic table, then drove to Inspiration Point and hiked up to Upper Inspiration Point.

As the day wound down, we debated another trail but decided to stay put—and wow, were we rewarded! A stunning sunset painted the hoodoos in golden hues, followed by a super full moon rising huge and bright over the mountains (that classic moon illusion!).

Magical doesn’t cover it—include your own moon pics if you go!

Day 3: Misty Sunrise and Heading Home

Our last morning was short—we needed to drive back to Provo, then up to Salt Lake City for family dinner at the newly renovated The Roof restaurant (amazing views of the Salt Lake Temple renovation).

We arrived early at Sunset Point (great for sunrise too!) and chatted with a friendly couple from Colorado, originally from Mexico. My wife connected in Spanish from her upbringing there, while I chimed in with my mission Spanish from Antofagasta, Chile.

At 8,000 feet elevation, we were literally inside a cloud—dense fog obscured the sunrise, but it created a mystical pink and purple haze with hoodoos faintly emerging below.

Beautiful in a dreamy way!

Including Mr. Head Hoodoo!

We packed up at Ruby’s Inn and hit the road, already planning our next trip—it’s so accessible from Provo!

Final Tips for Your Bryce Canyon Adventure

•  Pack layers and waterproof shoes—weather shifts fast, trails can be muddy.

•  Focus on rim trails if short on time; Navajo Loop is a must for close-up hoodoos.

•  Visit the signs for Ebenezer Bryce backstory and movie trivia.

•  Stay at Ruby’s Inn for convenience and amenities.

•  Shoulder seasons beat crowds; unseasonably warm this trip, but prepare for anything.

Bryce Canyon truly captured our hearts with its surreal hoodoos, ever-changing skies, and that unforgettable super full moon rise—it’s a place that feels like stepping onto another planet, yet it’s right here in Utah. We’re already planning our next visit and know we’ve only scratched the surface of what this incredible park has to offer. Have you been to Bryce Canyon before? What was your favorite viewpoint or hike? Or if you’re planning a trip, what questions do you have—I’d love to help! Drop a comment below and let’s chat about this magical place!

All photos with the exception of the Ruby’s Inn pic are by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.