Did you know that only 20 miles southeast of Bryce Canyon National Park is Kodachrome Basin State Park? Known for its roaring red rock formations and magnificent skyscraper sand pipes, this park is considered a picture-perfect desert landscape.
Originally named Chimney Rock State Park in 1962, the name was quickly changed to Kodachrome Basin State Park after receiving permission from the Kodak Corporation. Widely known for its beautiful scenery, it’s a photographer’s paradise, hence the name being changed to Kodachrome.
While visiting this park, you’ll find easy to moderate hikes filled with wildlife, box canyons, geological features and the only natural arch in the park. Not only are the views divine but also the camping, lodging and restaurants surrounding the area make this a destination worth visiting.
Let’s plan your trip to Kodachrome Basin State Park!
First, a place to stay
Enjoy a quaint stay at over 10 hotels located in the small towns of Tropic and Cannonville. Choose from rustic cabins like Bryce Canyon Log Cabins or Bryce Canyon Villas. Cozy up at a bed and breakfast like Buffalo Sage or Bryce Trails. Lodge in the treetops at Stone Canyon Inn’s treehouse or stay in one of their luxurious houses, cabins or bungalows.
If you’d rather be immersed in the expansive scenery of Kodachrome then book a campsite. Bunkhouses, tents, RV, group, horse, boat and day-use sites are all available so you can stay beneath the towering sand pipes. Each site includes restrooms, showers and a picnic pavilion. There’s even a convenience store nearby.
No matter what type of lodging you prefer, find it near or in Kodachrome!
Second, a place to eat
Sizzling cheesy pizza, mouthwatering BBQ and a warm cup of coffee. All of this and more can be found right in Tropic, only a short drive from the entrance of Kodachrome. Even if you’re camping in the park, it’s worth it to venture out and experience the local restaurants.
The Pizza Place, you guessed it, serves pizza! However, add some onion rings, garlic bread or chicken wings for a scrumptious meal.
Bryce Canyon Coffee has the perfect lineup of espressos, americanos, lattes and more! Before you adventure out, begin your day with a warm cup of coffee and a muffin or bagel.
If you really want a feast, enjoy some All-American BBQ at i.d.k. Barbecue. Drool over their delicious BBQ, mac and cheese and peach cobbler.
Eat some hearty food at Rustler’s Restaurant featuring full menus for breakfast and lunch. Load up your plate with pancakes, waffles, sandwiches and burgers.
Still not seeing something that perks your tastebuds? Check out the other restaurants surrounding Bryce Canyon Country.
Third, a place to play
Kodachrome has five hikes, each taking you to unique and different areas of the park.
Grand Parade Trail: An easy 1.5-mile trail that provides excellent observation of bird and plant life. Walk the trail floor as you parade through two box canyons, similar to slot canyons and be guided by the narrow and plateaued passages.
Panorama Trail: Rated as easy to moderate, this hike can be completed as a 3-mile or 6-mile loop. Get up close to the pipes and see iconic geological features like “Cool Cave,” “Secret Passage” and the “Hat Shop.”
Angel’s Palace Trail: As an easy to moderate trail, this 1.5-mile hike is keen for photographers. Views of the chimneys are supreme and the colors seem to pop all along the trail.
Nature Trail: A short and sweet 0.5 miles, this hike will give you a perfect overview of all the plants, animals, and geology found in Kodachrome.
Shakespeare Arch – Sentinel Trail: Get access to the only natural arch in the park on this 1.7-mile loop. Watch out for a sneak “peak” of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which surrounds the park.
Not only is hiking an option but also biking and horseback riding is possible on some trails too.
At the end of a long day of hiking, take some time to rest. Lay down, look up at the sky and experience the serenity of stars lighting up the darkness. Kodachrome was honored to be named an International Dark Sky Park in 2021. Be mesmerized by the stars and look for your favorite constellations.
Whether you’re spending a few days or one night at Kodachrome Basin State Park, there are some beautiful hiking trails, restaurants, and lodging nearby. Get ready to experience the sedimentary pipes colored in hues of cream, white and red. You’ll definitely need to snap some photos.
The trip is planned so get packing and head to Kodachrome Basin State Park!
