Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is one of my top 10 favorite National Parks! It is visually stunning, providing suitable hiking for all levels, and is more intimate in size than some of the other parks. It does get crowded here- so if you are looking for quiet, alone time- you are not likely to find that on Queen Victoria/Navajo Loop or other popular trails within the park. Use the shuttle bus when available – parking can be a nightmare. Be sure to pack sunscreen, and plenty of water- at least 2 L/person. There are no facilities on most trails. I recommend doing the Queen’s Garden trail first- the descent is fairly straight forward- a switch back down the descent. It is in the blazing sun during the morning hours- so climbing back up in the heat and constantly seeing how far you have to go would be a nightmare. By connecting to the Navajo Loop- the ascent is not visible- involves scrambling around rocks, is a bit more shady from tall rocks and has an awesome view from the top! Bryce is easily a one day park- you could even do it in a half day by doing the amphitheater and overlooks if you are pressed for time. It really should be on everyone’s must see list! The nearby town has hotels, lots of restaurants, souvenir shopping with an Old West vibe.

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