Sunrise Point
Cliff Scenic overlook known for sunrise views
At Bryce Canyon National Park’s Sunrise Point, rim overlooks and short trails frame the hoodoo amphitheater. Visitors come for sunrise light, photography and easy hikes such as the Navajo Loop.
Sunrise Point is an east-facing overlook on the rim of Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah that provides direct views into the Bryce Amphitheater, a dense concentration of hoodoos and other erosional rock features.
From the point there are panoramic views of hoodoos, fins and natural amphitheaters carved into the pale Claron Formation. The overlook links to short sections of the Rim Trail and is commonly used as a starting point for walks along the canyon rim and for photography at dawn.
The landscape visible from Sunrise Point is the result of uplift of the Paunsaugunt Plateau and prolonged differential erosion of the Eocene Claron Formation; frost-wedging and runoff have sculpted the hoodoos and amphitheaters over millions of years. The site has been part of Bryce Canyon National Park since the park’s establishment and has served as an accessible viewpoint for park visitors.
Sunrise Point sits on the rim inside Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah, adjacent to the park road and near other rim overlooks such as Sunset Point and Inspiration Point. It is within the park boundary just off the main park loop road.
- Overlook: Sits on the rim of Bryce Canyon National Park overlooking the Bryce Amphitheater of hoodoos and spire formations, offering direct access to the park rim trail.
- Best time: A popular spot for early-morning photography because the amphitheater faces east and the rising sun illuminates the hoodoos and fins.
How to Get to Sunrise Point #
Often reached by park roads off major scenic routes in southern Utah-expect short gravel spurs from main highways and small parking areas at the overlook. Check park service notices for exact directions and access.
Tips for Visiting Sunrise Point #
- Arrive before sunrise-the Point lives up to its name when the sun first touches the rock faces.
- Watch for ranger or park signage-some Sunrise Points are within protected reserves with restricted hours.
- Bring a warm layer even in summer; the canyon-bottom mornings can be unexpectedly cool.
Best Time to Visit Sunrise Point #
Sunrise and early morning visits are best, particularly in spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable.
Weather & Climate near Sunrise Point #
Sunrise Point's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -12°C to 26°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -12°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -10°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of -4°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cold with highs of 17°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 4°C. The driest month with just 18 mm.
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July
July is cool with highs of 26°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 8°C. The wettest month with 53 mm of rain.
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September
September is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of -2°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 7°C and lows of -7°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -11°C. Light rainfall.
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