The Grand Canyon, a 20-million-year-old abyss of weathered rock that is still awe-inspiring to this day, has been capturing the attention of mankind for centuries. It has been explored by men and women, who have written songs and books about it as well as acting in movies and plays. Grand Canyon vs Bryce Canyon Most of us know about the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most beautiful natural phenomena.
Bryce Canyon, on the other hand, is a national park that does not get nearly as much attention. The colossal earthen ditch has been shaped by time and weather into a breathtaking sight. It is not as large as the Grand Canyon but it’s more beautiful, colorful and approachable. Bryce Canyon’s silvery sky contrasts with the bright pinks, oranges, and yellows. It is a sight that makes a rainbow look pale. Grand Canyon vs Bryce Canyon both are huge chasms on the earth. Both are stunning. Both are beautiful. You should visit the Grand Canyon if you only have time to see one park.
Which Is Better Grand Canyon vs Bryce Canyon
The biggest difference between Grand Canyon vs. Bryce Canyon lies in The Grand Canyon, a huge crevasse on the Earth measuring 1,902 square mile. It is roughly 700 square miles bigger than Rhode Island. The Grand Canyon is the longest and largest canyon in the entire world. No wonder people are so overwhelmed by it when they first see it!
Bryce Canyon, in contrast, is only 55 square mile. It is roughly the same size as San Francisco. Bryce Canyon may be smaller than the Grand Canyon, but it still has the same impact on those who see it. The multi-colored sandstone is closer to your eye, and it seems that the brain absorbs its presence more easily than the Grand Canyon.
The topographic features in both parks are very different
The Grand Canyon is the result of hundreds of millions of year old rock being eroded by the Colorado River. The viewpoints at the edge are very high due to this process. You can peer down and see the Colorado River 6,000 feet below you at certain points. There are also archways, waterfalls and petroglyphs. It’s important to note that the Grand Canyon is a complex area with many different features.
Bryce Canyon, although it is called a “canyon”, was formed in a totally different way than the Grand Canyon. The Colorado River cut through the minerals of the Grand Canyon over millions and years. It is not technically a canyon. Wind, snow, extreme temperatures, and water caused erosion over millions of year after the Colorado Plateau formed due to uplift. The erosion created the hoodoos. These are totem-like pillars that are covered with a layer of more resistant rock. These hoodoos have a fantastic shape that is incredible to see.
Grand Canyon receives more visitors than Bryce Canyon
Grand Canyon vs Bryce Canyon who receives more visitors the Grand Canyon ranks second in popularity behind Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Grand Canyon National Park is almost always crowded, with almost 6 million visitors expected in 2019. This is especially true at the South Rim. The Grand Canyon is located off Interstate 40, a major American interstate, making it convenient for people to visit the Grand Canyon as a primary attraction or to stop by on their way to other Southwest sites.
Bryce Canyon, because it is more difficult to reach in terms of accessibility, doesn’t attract as many visitors as the Grand Canyon. Just 2.6 million people visit this hidden gem between Grand Staircase Escalante National Forest and Dixie National Forest every year. These visitors are mostly on a quest to visit the “Mighty Five National Parks” in Utah. Bryce Canyon shares the same trail as Zion, Arches Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef National Parks. It is still the most remote park and can experience inclement weather in winter because of its elevation.
The two parks are home to a diverse range of wildlife
The Grand Canyon’s size and climate will give you ample opportunities to observe wildlife. You are sure to see at least one of the 373 bird species, 89 mammal species, 47 reptiles or amphibians, or 17 fish that inhabit this park. Rocky Mountain Elk is one of the most popular animals among visitors.
Bryce Canyon is also home to a variety of fascinating animals. There are 59 types of mammals, 175 bird species, 11 reptile types, and four amphibian species.
The most abundant animal in Bryce Canyon is smaller than the mule deer. Utah Prairie Dogs are adorable and entertaining to watch. You will see a lot of heads scurrying around the north meadows of the park, surveying the terrain. The adorable barking sounds they make are how they communicate with each other. You can get a stuffed version of the park’s mascot at the visitor center.
The Grand Canyon offers more activities and amenities than Bryce Canyon
Most visitors will enter through the Grand Canyon South Rim Entrance. Outside the park, you can find restaurants, hotels and outfitters to cater for all activities. You can also find many hotels, lodges and restaurants inside the park.
You can take a helicopter or hot air balloon flight over the Grand Canyon if you don’t want to hike or travel from one viewpoint. Even if you want to hire a Jeep to drive around the Grand Canyon, or charter a raft for a trip down the Colorado River, there are many options. There are many activities to choose from, so boredom is rare.
Exploring both the Grand Canyon vs. Bryce Canyon provides a diverse experience, showcasing the spectacular beauty and geological diversity of the American Southwest.
Conclusion
Bryce offers a variety of activities that are sure to please many visitors. Horseback riding is available in the canyon, between the hoodoos, and at the various stopping points. The park’s elevation of 8,000-9,000 feet ensures that there will be snow in the canyon. Snowshoeing along the rim of canyon is a great way to see the canyon. Bryce Canyon is also certified as a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park. This means the viewing of meteor showers, Milky Way, and other celestial phenomena is superior to the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon vs. Bryce Canyon is both great places to visit. You will be able to create many wonderful memories if you plan a trip to both parks.
