The “Ghost Town” Park: Attendance Plummets at Bryce Canyon and Creates Opportunity

Decline in Bryce Canyon Visitors: A 2025 Overview

2025 saw a large dip in visitors to Bryce Canyon National Park. This drop in attendance was higher than the drop in other parks in the state, and Zion National Park held steady. 

With all the upheavals in the world this past year including international conflicts, economic uncertainty, and backlash over tariffs and sanctions, many international tourists did not come to Utah to visit like they have in the past. 

Impact on Local Parks: Comparisons and Statistics

Arches, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands were impacted, but Bryce Canyon saw a 21% drop in visitors during the busiest time of the year. It was the lowest number of visitors seen at the park since 2015. 

This has impacted businesses who rely on tourism in these areas. The response has been to focus more domestic tourism while still inviting those from outside of the United States to come explore what Utah has to offer. 

Encouraging Local Exploration: The Time is Now

What it means for the residents of Utah is it is a great time to see the attractions the world has been enjoying for decades. If you have never stayed at Ruby’s Inn at the entrance of the park, now is the time to do it. 

They offer horseback riding, guided ATV tours, and you can even see the park by helicopter. It is worth the stay just for the great food and there are some good deals to be had right now while tourism is down.  

Read More: Where You Can Collect Petrified Wood in Utah and Not Get in Trouble

It is surprising how many people who live in Utah haven’t visited the five national parks in the state. 2026 is the perfect time to get out and explore while the rest of the world gives us some room.