Bryce Canyon is not really a canyon, but rather a series of amphitheaters carved by erosion from the edge of the Pausaugunt Plateau. The park's main scenic drive runs atop the plateau connecting various lookouts over the amphitheaters.
Hiking trails run along the rim and down into the amphitheaters.
The park is relatively small, stretching just 18 miles north to south and 6 miles across at its widest point. You can experience it adequately in a day, though longer stays will be rewarded. While Bryce Canyon is beautiful anytime of the day, it is most spectacularly colorful near sunrise and sunset. The best views in the park are from Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point. They form a semi-circle around the Bryce Amphitheater, which is the largest and most spectacular in the park.