Bryce or Zion first? Which has less to walk?

Sorry to hear about your back. Both park's real glory is in the hiking, so those trail hikes are out.

Knowing you have walking issues, I would focus on Bryce. That assumes you can drive ok. Most of the Bryce overlook parking areas are very short walks to the overlooks. Bryce has outstanding features which are so unique. Seeing the colorful hoodoo's is one of natures treats. Now at Bryce, you are at the top of the canyon looking down into it.

At Zion, you are on the floor looking up. The main area has park service buses that transport you. Great scenery but not as spectacular if you could hike. Zion has some of the world's outstanding trails. However many are very steep, like the hike to Angels Landing ( can't be afraid of heights on that one).

I love Bryce and it would be my first choice for you. I would save Zion for when your back is better and you can get into Zion's back country.

Both of these Parks require a good amount of walking.

Of the two Parks,its my feeling that Bryce NP will allow you to see more of the Park until you are more mobile.
You can see many attraction area's in Bryce if you drive to overlooks, many are short walks to see a view. I suggest you speak to a Ranger on arrival, they are quite helpful.

Zion NP does not allow cars drive thru access. It requires significant walking to see many of the park features. However,it is well worth the effort. There is an area to park your car and take shuttle service into the Park Area where you can ride and see portions of the Park without walking but you would miss so much by riding the bus only. In my mind, it will not be as great an impact. Zion is an outstanding Park.

Feel better and ENJOY!

Both have shuttles. Bryce has less to see if you aren't hiking. There is nothing to see driving, and a fairly short rim trail.

Zion, on the other hand, has many beautiful spots to sit and look. Driving through the East side is amazing too.

Zion has dedicated buses and that would be your best choice. Bryce has lots of walking, although you can drive to many of the view points.


Gary Haupt