Paria View

Paria View is one of Bryce Canyon National Park's quieter overlooks, sitting above a 500-foot-deep amphitheater carved by the headwaters of Yellow Creek, which drains southeast toward the Paria River. Unlike the park's east-facing hoodoo bowls — Sunrise and Sunset Points — Paria View faces west, which makes it the rare spot inside the park that rewards sunset visitors rather than sunrise seekers.

What You'll See

The overlook surveys a sweeping landscape of eroded hoodoos, slickrock fins, and canyon walls that give way to the broader Paria River valley in the distance. The color contrasts here can be striking in low afternoon light — the pink and orange limestone stands against dark green ponderosa pines. It's also a solid vantage point for spotting ravens and raptors riding thermals off the canyon walls.

Getting There and Practical Notes

You need a car — the park shuttle does not stop at Paria View. Follow the signs for Bryce Point off the main park road (UT-63) and take the short side spur. A paved path leads from the parking area to the overlook, making it accessible for most visitors. There are no hiking trails departing from this viewpoint itself, though the trailhead for the Paria Loop — a cross-country ski route in winter — is nearby. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset and bring layers; the canyon rim sits above 8,000 feet and cools quickly after the sun drops.