Bryce Canyon’s red-rock landscapes are a road trip-worthy wonder in the summer and fall seasons, but Parkites may balk at the idea of traveling to one of Utah’s Mighty 5 during its busiest season. Thankfully, there are still plenty of places to beat or dodge the masses—if you know where to go. Use this guide to explore Bryce’s famed hoodoos and spires by horse, bike, and hiking trail, all while glamorously camping under the canyon’s famously dark, starry skies.

Bike or Hike in Red Canyon

While cruising Scenic Byway 12 toward Bryce Canyon National Park, considered one of America’s most beautiful roads, you’ll pass through two distinct rock arch tunnels. Park just past them at the Red Canyon Visitor Center to hike amid dazzling limestone and sandstone towers—without the national park fees or crowds. Follow the half-mile Pink Ledges Trail for great views over a short distance, then connect to the Hoodoo Trail for colorful rock vistas paired with brilliant green ponderosa pines. Prefer pedal-powered adventures? Ride along the 11-mile paved bike path across the street through the Dixie National Forest. 

Hike the Navajo Loop Via Tropic Trail

Skip driving into the national park and explore via the backside on the quiet Tropic Trail. While most Bryce hikes begin on the rim, this path begins outside the park in small-town Tropic. It travels 1.7 miles through lower-elevation forest, steadily climbing to reach the iconic red-orange formations. The Tropic Trail intersects with the popular Navajo Loop, which leads to Sunset Point and the famous hoodoo view of Thor’s Hammer—all without parking inside the park. After trekking, refuel with pulled pork, sweet chicken, and brisket at Tropic’s local-favorite i.d.k. Barbecue.

Horseback Ride in Bryce Canyon

Instead of elbowing your way through crowded hikes, experience the stunning landscapes like cowboys of yesteryear on a guided horseback ride with Canyon Trail Rides. Expert wranglers take you from the rim into the heart of Bryce Canyon National Park, past sandstone formations like The Chessmen, Wall of Windows, and Silent City, and back again. Both the young and young at heart will delight in clip-clopping through the canyon. 

Glamping Near Bryce Canyon

Instead of fighting for a campsite, find peaceful glamping just 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon. Expect private canvas tents with en suite bathrooms, showers, and comfy beds, surrounded by a high-alpine juniper forest. The property’s lobby tent houses a cozy indoor-outdoor socializing space, plus a gourmet restaurant serving hearty seated dinners and grab-and-go breakfasts. Every morning, wake up with complimentary coffee and tea; by night, pair your dinner with craft beers and wines. Under Canvas is one of the world’s first DarkSky resorts, making it the perfect place to stare up at Bryce’s starry skies.