Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its awe-inspiring hoodoos, sweeping vistas, and vibrant colors that shift dramatically with the changing light. For those seeking the most Instagrammable spots, there are some must-see locations as well as lesser-known gems. Here are the top 10 locations for your Instagram feed, complete with the best time of day to shoot and suggested camera settings.
1. Sunrise Point
As its name suggests, Sunrise Point offers a spectacular view of the first light hitting the canyon’s hoodoos. This is a top spot for capturing the early morning glow over Bryce.
- Best time: Sunrise
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11
- Shutter speed: 1/60 to 1/100 sec
- ISO: 100-200
- Lens: 24-70mm
- Tip: Use a tripod for long exposures as the sun rises to capture the soft, glowing colors.
2. Bryce Amphitheater
Bryce Amphitheater offers one of the most iconic views of the park. Thousands of hoodoos stretch across the landscape, offering endless photo opportunities.
- Best time: Late afternoon or sunrise
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/11 to f/16
- Shutter speed: 1/125 sec
- ISO: 100-400
- Lens: 24-70mm
- Tip: A polarizing filter can enhance colors, especially during mid-day.
3. Thor’s Hammer
Thor’s Hammer is a massive hoodoo that stands out due to its unique shape. It’s a favorite for close-up shots with the towering rock formations in the background.
- Best time: Mid-morning or late afternoon
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/5.6 to f/8
- Shutter speed: 1/250 sec
- ISO: 100-200
- Lens: 70-200mm
- Tip: Capture this with contrasting light during the golden hour.
4. Sunset Point
With panoramic views and vibrant red rocks, Sunset Point is aptly named for its stunning sunset views. Capture the warm colors of the canyon as the sun sets.
- Best time: Late afternoon to sunset
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11
- Shutter speed: 1/125 to 1/60 sec
- ISO: 100-400
- Lens: 24-70mm
- Tip: Stay after sunset for some beautiful post-sunset colors.
5. The Navajo Loop Trail – Wall Street Section
This narrow passageway, framed by towering cliffs, offers one of the most unique Instagram opportunities. The way light filters through the rock formations creates a magical atmosphere.
- Best time: Mid-morning or late afternoon
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/5.6 to f/8
- Shutter speed: 1/100 sec
- ISO: 400-800
- Lens: 16-35mm
- Tip: Vertical shots will highlight the sheer height of the cliffs.
6. Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point offers a higher vantage point over the Bryce Amphitheater, allowing for a more expansive view of the hoodoos below.
- Best time: Sunrise or sunset
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11
- Shutter speed: 1/100 to 1/125 sec
- ISO: 100-200
- Lens: 16-35mm or 24-70mm
- Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive view of the canyon below.
7. Natural Bridge
One of the park’s rare natural arches, Natural Bridge is an excellent spot for capturing the unique beauty of Bryce. The arch frames the landscape beyond, offering a unique composition.
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/5.6 to f/8
- Shutter speed: 1/125 sec
- ISO: 100
- Lens: 24-70mm
- Tip: Try framing the shot with the arch in the foreground and the landscape beyond.
8. Bryce Point
Bryce Point offers one of the highest vantage points in the park, providing sweeping views of the hoodoos and colorful rock formations.
- Best time: Sunrise for golden-hour light
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/16
- Shutter speed: 1/60 to 1/100 sec
- ISO: 100-200
- Lens: 16-35mm
- Tip: Get there early to avoid crowds and catch the best light.
9. Mossy Cave
A hidden gem, Mossy Cave is less visited but offers a small waterfall and lush greenery, creating a contrast with the otherwise arid landscape of Bryce Canyon.
- Best time: Mid-day for even light
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/4 to f/5.6
- Shutter speed: 1/60 sec
- ISO: 200
- Lens: 24-70mm
- Tip: Capture the waterfall with a slower shutter speed to create a soft, silky effect.
10. Paria View
Paria View is lesser-known, making it a quieter location with views similar to Bryce Point. It’s a great spot for sunset shots, as the sun sets behind the hoodoos, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
- Best time: Sunset
- Camera settings:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11
- Shutter speed: 1/125 to 1/60 sec
- ISO: 100-200
- Lens: 16-35mm or 24-70mm
- Tip: Arrive early to catch the best sunset light and use a polarizer to enhance the colors of the rocks.
Additional Tips for Photography in Bryce Canyon:
- Golden Hour Advantage: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for capturing Bryce’s vibrant colors. The warm, golden light highlights the red and orange hues of the rock formations, giving your photos a magical quality.
- Polarizing Filter: This helps reduce glare and bring out the vivid colors of the rock and sky, especially useful in mid-day light.
- Tripod: For sunrise and sunset shots, use a tripod to stabilize your camera and reduce shake during long exposures.
- Composition: Bryce Canyon offers natural lines and textures with the hoodoos and rock formations. Use these elements to create leading lines and depth in your photos.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a unique shot that not everyone has, consider visiting Mossy Cave or Paria View, which are less frequented by tourists but offer equally stunning views.
Bryce Canyon’s unique rock formations and ever-changing light make it a dream for Instagram enthusiasts. With these top 10 locations, you’ll be sure to capture stunning photos that will stand out on your feed, from the iconic views to hidden gems. Plan your visit with the right time of day in mind and the perfect camera settings to make the most of this incredible national park.
