Bryce Canyon's winter scenery is more alluring than its summer views thanks to the contrast of snow and red-rock/Kurt Repanshek

One of the very best seasons to head to Utah to visit Bryce Canyon National Park -- winter! -- is right around the corner, and the park staff is getting ready for it and tweaking some of its operational hours.

The season is one of the best because of the reduced crowds and the gorgeous contrast of fresh snow on the red-rock on display. As snow increases and daytime temperatures decrease, hikers are encouraged to prepare by dressing warmly and hiking with snowshoes or under-boot traction devices when applicable.  Trails dropping below the rim are open to snowshoeing and hiking, but hikers are encouraged to check with the Visitor Center for weather updates.  Cross-country skiing is permitted on top of the plateau (above the rim), but no skiing, snowboarding or other sliding is allowed below the rim.

During the winter season, some facilities and amenities will be closed or have their operating hours reduced.  The park visitor center and bookstore will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October 5 to November 1, when it will change to the winter hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Shuttle service hours within the park will change to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, and terminate for the season on Monday, October 13. 

The Bryce Canyon Lodge, motel units, restaurant and gift shop operated by Forever Resorts Inc. will close for the season after breakfast on Sunday, November 9.  Valhalla Pizzeria will close on Sunday, October 12^th with the General Store and public shower/laundry facility closing on Sunday, November 2. 

Loop A in the North Campground will remain open throughout the winter, but loops B-D, Sunset Campground, and the North Campground dump station will close on October 20 (or possibly earlier if overnight temperatures drop dramatically). 

Bryce Canyon National Park'™s main road will remain open through the winter but subject to temporary road closures after heavy snowfall.  The Fairyland Point and Paria View roads will be closed to vehicular traffic and left unplowed for cross-country skiers.