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Bryce Canyon Backcountry permit

Bryce Backcountry Gear Checklist

What to carry on Bryce Backcountry, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 8 more are worth the pack space.

9Total Items
1Required
8To bring

What to bring on Bryce Backcountry

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    Bear-resistant canister

    loaned free at the visitor center if you do not own one

    Permit rule: “Bear-resistant canisters required, loaned free at the visitor center, store all food and scented items inside them”

  • Bring

    Water treatment

    filter, chemical drops, or a stove to boil

  • Bring

    At least one gallon of water capacity per person per day

  • Bring

    Warm layers and a cold-rated sleeping bag for high-elevation nights

  • Bring

    Sturdy footwear for steep, rocky, uneven trail

  • Bring

    Trekking poles for the repeated climbs out of the amphitheater

  • Bring

    Sun protection for exposed rim sections

  • Bring

    Extra water carry capacity in case a spring is dry

  • Bring

    Microspikes in early spring or late fall when trails may hold snow or ice

15 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Plan a trip here

General backcountry gear

General backcountry kit. Bryce Canyon National Park's own rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Bryce Backcountry

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Some items are required seasonally. Check current regulations.

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