The elevation at Bryce Canyon increases enough to take you through three different climates.

The Lower Park is in the Upper Sonoran Life zone. This hot, dry climate supports desert flora like sage, cacti Pinyon Pine and Juniper trees. This land seem so desolate and barren that the 18th century French fur traders called this area "les mauvaises terres à traverse." This translates into English as "the bad lands to cross" which was shortened to "The Badlands."

Approaching the Visitor's Center and just beyond there is a change into the Transitional Life zone. This tranquil climate supports grassy meadows and Ponderosa pine. Squirrels, chipmunks, Prairie Dogs and Mule Deer enjoy this climate and may be seen throughout the park.

At the highest part of the plateau the Canadian Life zone is apparent with the Fir, Spruce and Aspen trees. On the windiest, coldest points the Bristlecone Pine is living. Black Bears, Bull Elk and Ravens live within this climate.