History of Bryce Canyon National Park in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 2, 2025

Bryce Canyon National Park, situated in southwestern Utah, is renowned for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. These striking red, orange, and white rock pillars are formed by erosion on the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, creating a series of natural amphitheaters, not actually a canyon. Positioned at a high elevation, ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 feet, the park offers spectacular views and is smaller in scale compared to nearby Zion National Park.

1916: Public Description in Magazine Articles

In 1916, the scenic areas of Bryce Canyon were first described to the public in magazine articles published by Union Pacific and Santa Fe railroads.

1918: Increased Interest Sparked by Articles

In 1918, more articles helped to spark interest in the scenic wonders of Bryce Canyon's amphitheaters, which were promoted by Forest Supervisor J. W. Humphrey and others.

June 8, 1923: Bryce Canyon National Monument Established

On June 8, 1923, President Warren G. Harding established Bryce Canyon National Monument after receiving a recommendation from National Park Service Director Stephen Mather.

1923: National Monument Designation

In 1923, Bryce Canyon was originally designated as a national monument by President Warren G. Harding.

1923: Process for Transferring Ownership of Land

In 1923, a process led by the Utah Parks Company for transferring ownership of private and state-held land to the federal government started.

1924: Road Construction

In 1924, a road was built on the plateau to provide access to outlooks over the amphitheaters.

1924: Work on Upgrading Protection Status

In 1924, members of the United States Congress started work on upgrading Bryce Canyon's protection status from national monument to national park to establish Utah National Park.

1925: Bryce Canyon Lodge Construction

From 1924 to 1925, Bryce Canyon Lodge was built from local timber and stone.

February 25, 1928: Bryce Canyon National Park Established

On February 25, 1928, Bryce Canyon National Park was officially established after the last of the land was acquired and transferred to the federal government.

1928: National Park Redesignation

In 1928, Bryce Canyon was redesignated as a national park by Congress.

1931: Area Annexation

In 1931, President Herbert Hoover annexed an adjoining area south of the park.

1934: Rim Road Completion

In 1934, Rim Road, a scenic drive, was completed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

1942: Area Addition

In 1942, an additional 635 acres (257 ha) was added to Bryce Canyon National Park.

September 15, 1950: USS Bryce Canyon Service Start

On September 15, 1950, the USS Bryce Canyon, named for the park, began its service as a supply and repair ship in the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

1956: First Superintendent

In 1956, Bryce Canyon's first superintendent started work; until then, park administration was conducted from Zion National Park.

1961: Bryce Canyon Natural History Association Established

In 1961, the Bryce Canyon Natural History Association (BCNHA) was established as a non-profit organization to support the park's interpretive, educational, and scientific activities.

January 13, 1963: Record Low Temperature

On January 13, 1963, Bryce Canyon National Park recorded a record low temperature of −26 °F (−32 °C).

June 30, 1981: USS Bryce Canyon Service End

On June 30, 1981, the USS Bryce Canyon ended its service as a supply and repair ship in the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

February 6, 1989: Record Low Temperature

On February 6, 1989, Bryce Canyon National Park recorded a record low temperature of −26 °F (−32 °C).

June 2000: In-Park Shuttle System Implemented

In June 2000, the National Park Service (NPS) implemented a voluntary, summer-only, in-park shuttle system in response to increased visitation and traffic congestion.