A suggestion regarding Bryce Canyon
Hello:
I agree with everyone, regarding the route you seem to be leaning towards. The drive between Capitol Reef and Bryce is epic, one of my personal favorites, with sweeping views, gorgeous curves, and not all that much traffic. If you're going to stay the night in Tropic, you should make a point of getting up super early--before sunrise, if you possibly can, and drive straight to Bryce Canyon. Depending on where you stay in Tropic, it's only 20 minutes away (or less--there are several motels right at the park entrance). The gate doesn't open until 8 AM, but all that means is that nobody will be manning the entry station. Unless things have changed since I was there two years ago, you can drive straight into the park; there are (or were) no closed gates across the roadway. Once inside the park, there's a drive that leads past a series of overlooks, each with a parking area. Start at Inspiration Point, which faces due east: Bryce Canyon has an eastern exposure, and when the sun pokes up above the horizon, it sets that entire landscape on fire, spires and hoodoos gleaming in golden light! As a photographer, you'll truly appreciate the very special opportunity. The best part about the early start: you'll have the whole place (almost) to yourself. Once the gates open and the tour buses start rolling in, it's a completely different experience. Assuming you have an annual parks pass, it's perfectly acceptable for you to drive in without paying. If you don't have a pass? You can pay on your way out.
I have a slideshow on my personal website with photos of what I've just described. Check it out, if you're interested (give the first page a minute to load, then the slides will advance automatically):
Bryce Canyon Sunrise
Enjoy! Sounds like you're going to have an awesome trip!
Rick