How to Get to Kodachrome Basin State Park from Bryce Canyon National Park
Are you planning a trip to southern Utah? If you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, consider adding
Kodachrome Basin State Park to your itinerary. Located just a short drive away, Kodachrome Basin offers unique landscapes with its towering rock spires, vibrant colors, and peaceful hiking trails. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to get from Bryce Canyon to Kodachrome Basin State Park and what you can expect along the way.
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Why Visit Kodachrome Basin State Park?
While Bryce Canyon is famous for its hoodoos, Kodachrome Basin offers a different but equally impressive landscape. The park is known for its 67 monolithic stone spires, also called “chimneys” or “sand pipes,” which rise dramatically from the desert floor. These formations create an otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for photography, hiking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
The park’s vibrant colors—red, pink, yellow, and white—are especially striking in the soft light of sunrise and sunset. Whether looking for a relaxing day trip or an active adventure, Kodachrome Basin provides a quieter and less crowded alternative to Bryce Canyon.
We added a day on our Bryce Canyon National Park itinerary to venture out of the park for a visit to Kodachrome Basin State Park. This was a great addition for exploring different aspects of the geology and landscapes in this part of Utah.
Distance and Drive Time
The drive from Bryce Canyon National Park to Kodachrome Basin State Park is about 25 miles and takes approximately 40 minutes. It’s a scenic journey through Utah’s stunning high desert, offering plenty of beautiful views and the opportunity to experience more of the region’s diverse geological features.
Directions:
- From Bryce Canyon National Park, head out of the park via Utah State Route 63. This main road leads you in and out of Bryce Canyon. Follow this road north to the junction with Utah State Route 12.
- At the junction, turn right (east) onto Utah State Route 12. This is part of the Scenic Byway 12, one of the most picturesque drives in the United States. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the red rock formations and ponderosa pines along the way.
- After driving about 13 miles, you’ll reach the town of Cannonville. In Cannonville, turn right (south) onto Cottonwood Canyon Road.
- Continue on Cottonwood Canyon Road for about 9 miles until you reach the Kodachrome Basin State Park entrance. The road is paved and easy to navigate, offering a smooth drive to the park.
We found a split option on the road during our drive to the park. Continuing straight would take us into the park but on a dirt road. We decided to turn left at the Kodachrome Basin State Park sign. This option took us into the state park on a paved road where we soon arrived at the gated entrance and paid our entrance fee.
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Map – Bryce Canyon National Park to Kodachrome Basin State Park
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Top Activities in Kodachrome Basin
Hiking: Kodachrome Basin has several hiking trails that vary in difficulty, with the Angel’s Palace Trail and Grand Parade Trail being two of the most popular. These hikes offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to see the park’s unique rock formations up close. Check out our post about the Best Hikes in Kodachrome Basin State Park to learn more about hiking opportunities.
Photography: With its stunning rock formations and vivid colors, Kodachrome Basin is a photographer’s dream. Don’t forget to bring your camera, especially if you’re visiting during the golden hours around sunrise or sunset.
Camping: If you want to extend your visit, the park has a well-maintained campground with facilities for both RVs and tents. The dark skies in this area also make it an excellent place for stargazing.
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Tips For The Drive
Fuel Up: This route has limited services, so it’s a good idea to fill up your gas tank before leaving Bryce Canyon or Cannonville.
Weather Considerations: Weather can change quickly in this region, especially during winter. Check road conditions in advance if you’re traveling in the colder seasons.
Drive Safely: The roads are generally well-maintained, but always be cautious of wildlife, especially in the early morning and evening.
FAQs
What is the best route to take to Kodachrome Basin State Park from Bryce Canyon National Park?
The most direct and scenic route is to take UT-12 E followed by UT-63 S. This route offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
Is the drive between Bryce Canyon and Kodachrome scenic?
Yes, the drive is very scenic, offering glimpses of Utah’s iconic red rock formations and beautiful vistas.
Is there cell phone service along the route?
Cell phone service can be spotty in some areas between the parks, so it’s wise to plan accordingly and download maps or directions in advance.
Where is the closest gas station to Kodachrome Basin State Park?
The closest gas station to Kodachrome Basin State Park is located in Cannonville, Utah, which is approximately 9 miles northwest of the park.
Are there any entrance fees at Kodachrome Basin State Park?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Kodachrome Basin State Park. The fee for a vehicle is generally around $10, but prices can vary, so it’s best to check the park’s official website for current rates.
Final Thoughts: How to get from Bryce Canyon to Kodachrome Basin State Park
Visiting Kodachrome Basin State Park from Bryce Canyon National Park is an easy and rewarding addition to your southern Utah itinerary. Its proximity, striking geological formations, and serene atmosphere offer a beautiful contrast to the more famous Bryce Canyon. Whether you’re looking for a scenic day trip or a peaceful escape into nature, Kodachrome Basin won’t disappoint.
So, if you’re planning a visit to Bryce Canyon, save some time for a detour to Kodachrome Basin—you’ll be glad you did!
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