Project Links
A comment period for this project closes
Jul 23, 2025:
Days, Hours, Min.
Days, Hours, Min.
Equestrian Use Program
Bryce Canyon National Park » Equestrian Use Program » Document List
The National Park Service (NPS) is proposing changes to the management of equestrian use at Bryce Canyon National Park (the park). Horse and mule riding has been part of the park's history since 1923, and in 1931, the park developed dedicated horse trails that allow visitors to explore it's unique geology on horseback. The current commercial operator has been offering guided rides within the park since the 1970s, and private riders have enjoyed using the trails during certain times of the day.
In 2014, the park developed a reservation system for private riders to help spread riders out and avoid trail encounters between groups. In 2022, the park updated this system to avoid any overlap between private and guided rides, allowing private riders to reserve time slots between 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., after the commercial rides were off the trail each day. The park has recognized a growing interest in more riding opportunities — guided riding has increased by a marginal percentage, and private rides have increased by over 700 percent since 2015.
These proposed changes seek to maintain access and fair riding opportunities for all users, ensure safe conditions for riders and stock, and preserve the park's natural and cultural resources. The NPS is exploring strategies that include modifying schedules, allocations, and access points to better meet the needs of both commercial and private stock users. If these proposed strategies do not work as planned to reduce encounters or protect park resources, the NPS may look into additional management options in the future.
The park welcomes your thoughts on its proposed management strategies. The public comment period will be open until July 23, 2025. Thank you for your interest and support.
Equestrian Use Program
ATTN: Kelly Wood, Park Planner
P.O. Box 640201
Bryce, UT 84764
In 2014, the park developed a reservation system for private riders to help spread riders out and avoid trail encounters between groups. In 2022, the park updated this system to avoid any overlap between private and guided rides, allowing private riders to reserve time slots between 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., after the commercial rides were off the trail each day. The park has recognized a growing interest in more riding opportunities — guided riding has increased by a marginal percentage, and private rides have increased by over 700 percent since 2015.
These proposed changes seek to maintain access and fair riding opportunities for all users, ensure safe conditions for riders and stock, and preserve the park's natural and cultural resources. The NPS is exploring strategies that include modifying schedules, allocations, and access points to better meet the needs of both commercial and private stock users. If these proposed strategies do not work as planned to reduce encounters or protect park resources, the NPS may look into additional management options in the future.
The park welcomes your thoughts on its proposed management strategies. The public comment period will be open until July 23, 2025. Thank you for your interest and support.
Contact Information
Bryce Canyon National ParkEquestrian Use Program
ATTN: Kelly Wood, Park Planner
P.O. Box 640201
Bryce, UT 84764