Travel Green in Bryce Canyon

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The park ranger at the Visitor Center information desk had no idea what we would be getting into. Most of those who descend into the twisted fantasyland beneath the rim opt for destinations such as the Queen's Garden or Wall Street...

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You say you're not a morning person. Despite your protestations, you must not miss dawn on a clear day at Sunrise Point. Suck down the caffeine and get out there, camera in hand, and be prepared for spectacular views as the light washes over the rocks of Bryce Canyon. Look out for the Limber Pine with its starkly exposed roots, the result of the rapid geologic erosion happening virtually before our eyes. Rangers think Bryce Canyon will be eroded into nothingness in about three million years. Good thing we're alive now so we can still see it!

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True to its name, sunset lights up the colorful hoodoos visible from Sunset Point to an almost aching beauty. The swirl of oranges, reds, pinks, whites, tans, and more just beg for photographic capture at this popular spot. Look for notable formations such as Silent City and the majestic, slightly intimidating Thor's Hammer. Birders, watch the skies for hawks, ravens, Cliff Swallows, and Violet-green swallows, among others.

Our Local Expert Says:

Bryce classic. Don't miss it, even though it's short & sweet.

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Popular and gorgeous, this well-named view offers a classic take on Bryce. Look for bristlecone pines on the empty hillsides, especially the young ones. Young bristlecone pines are distinct due to their tall, spindly stature and the fact that the entire length of their branches are sheathed in pine needles-hence the nickname "fox-tail pines." Inspiration Point is a great sunset spot to cap off a day spent exploring the Park. Note: watch out for the steep cliff edges! The railings are there for a reason.

Our Local Expert Says:

Thumbs up for an "environmentally sustainable menu with regional specialties as well as organic and all natural food choices."

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Surrounded by the rustic elegance of the 1920s-era Bryce Canyon Lodge, you can partake in the stunning view as well as a yummy (and reasonably priced) menu. Bryce Canyon Lodge features grilled trout, breakfast buffet, and a fantastic bourbon saloon steak in addition to a lengthy lunch menu. A rarity, the restaurant has full liquor service. This is the only restaurant within Bryce Canyon National Park boundaries.

Our Local Expert Says:

Totally cool way to see a national park! Don't miss the opportunity if you visit during a full moon.

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Another Bryce specialty, the Full Moon Hikes are an adventurous (yet safe) and different way to experience a national park. Caveat: make sure you're visiting during a full moon if you want to take advantage! Shadows and moonlight help those hoodoos look downright spectral, spurring on your imagination as the ranger leads. There are some very strict rules about getting tickets as well as honoring your commitment to experience a Full Moon Hike, so be certain to check the website or at the visitor center at least the day before the night of a full moon for specifics.

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The Lodge at Bryce Canyon offers visitors the only "in-park" lodging at Bryce Canyon National Park. From this convenient location, guests have access to hiking, biking and breathtaking views from the canyon rim. The lodge itself is rustic, relaxed and refined; visitors can choose between private cabins, rooms and suites, and can enjoy fine dining in the restaurant in the main lodge.

Our Local Expert Says:

A classic that shows off the best of Bryce.

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Another shortie that still reveals a lot of that amazing Bryce scenery, the Navajo Loop is great April through November; winter snows make it impassable. Start at Sunset Point and head down. At the bottom of the switchbacks, look for the two towering Douglas fir trees that have been stretching up toward the sun for over 750 years! Toward then end of this trail, peel your eyes for the hoodoo Twin Bridges as well as the descriptive Thor's Hammer. The Navajo Loop is popular; go early in the day or the evening if you want to avoid hordes of hikers.

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Hoodoos, ancient lakes and something called frost-wedging? Geologists have spent years studying the unique story of Bryce Canyon. Spend a half hour with a ranger as we discuss the current scientific explanation behind Bryce Canyon's unique geologic history. Check at the visitor center for current information.

Our Local Expert Says:

Due to it strenuousness, this trail arguably showcases some of Bryce Canyon's best features and is also appreciably less crowded.

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Starting at Bryce Point, head down below the rim. When you reach the choice of going either left or right at the fork, choose left so you do the trail clockwise. Look up to your left for the Fairy Castle! And if you can, peer off straight ahead in the distance to see folks looking down from Bryce Point, now a mile away and 900 feet above you. Then you'll come to the Wall of Windows, which is more impressive if seen coming up in this direction, from the south. Watch for horses on this trail, and give way if you see them. Or sign up for a horseback ride yourself, which is a really fun and different way to experience Peekaboo Loop.

Our Local Expert Says:

Tired of walking? Let your horse do it for you.

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Why hike when you can ride a horse? Choose between a 2-hour or 1/2-day trail ride through Bryce Amphitheatre along the Peekaboo Trail. Riders can choose from 200 horses and dozens of mules. This is a great way to see the canyon, and very popular with children. Pete and Keela Mangum and their crew of cowboys have been leading groups through Bryce Canyon, Zion and the Grand Canyon for over 20 years and are committed to their customers' safety and enjoyment. Let them share the striking beauty of Utah with you.

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Housed in the motel bearing the same name, the Bryce Canyon Pines dining room is housed in a charming, cottage-style room, warm and inviting. With sandwiches for lunch and a full menu for dinner, Bryce Canyon Pines features a fantastic Utah Trout entrée that must be tasted. Beer and wine are available.

Description:

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon offers visitors the only "in-park" lodging at Bryce Canyon National Park. From this convenient location, guests have access to hiking, biking and breathtaking views from the canyon rim. The lodge itself is rustic, relaxed and refined; visitors can choose between private cabins, rooms and suites, and can enjoy fine dining in the restaurant in the main lodge.

Description:

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon offers visitors the only "in-park" lodging at Bryce Canyon National Park. From this convenient location, guests have access to hiking, biking and breathtaking views from the canyon rim. The lodge itself is rustic, relaxed and refined; visitors can choose between private cabins, rooms and suites, and can enjoy fine dining in the restaurant in the main lodge.

Our Local Expert Says:

Classic Bryce views are even better on this hike because it's less crowded

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The Fairyland Loop takes hikers through striking natural rock formations; don't forget your camera! The trail begins at Fairyland Point, winds through the Bryce Amphitheatre and returns near Sunrise Point. It loses 950 feet in elevation--then gains it. You'll get a workout! Penny-pincher? This trail head starts before the fee station in the Park, so you can experience all of its beauty for free.

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Somewhat short yet definitely good, this well-worn trail starts from Sunrise Point and leads you into the heart of those crazy hoodoo rock formations. When you land (safely!) at the bottom, 950 feet below the trailhead, you'll be rewarded by Tower Bridge, situated right beside Keyhole Window in a stunning display of typical Bryce topography. Tower Bridge does indeed look like a natural version of, say, London Tower, albeit far more light and beautiful. Look for bristlecone pines and China Wall off in the distance.

Our Local Expert Says:

An astounding amount of classic scenery for such a short hike

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A short one if you lack time or desire to tackle longer hikes. The best time of year to see the Queens Garden is from April through October. Winter renders it impassable due to snow. Start at either Sunrise Point or Sunset Point. If you start at Sunrise, keep an eye out early on for views with fanciful names such as the Sinking Ship and Boat Mesa. If you peer off to the northeast, you'll see the rise of the Aquarius Plateau, the highest one in North America. Note: unless you backtrack, you'll need to shuttle at the end of your hike.

Our Local Expert Says:

Do NOT pass through southern Utah without making it a priority to stop by this restaurant & sample its amazing food & atmosphere. Sit outside if it's warm.

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With a seasonal menu built on Buddhist philosophy, it's no wonder that Hell's Backbone Grill has received some of the highest reviews of any restaurants in Utah. Tucked into tiny Boulder, UT, Hell's Backbone Grill takes good food seriously. Founded by Chef-Owners Jen Castle and Blake Spalding, Hell's Backbone Grill has been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, Bon Appetit, and The New York Times, and is a proud member of the Slow Food Organization. Sample plates include Puff Pastry Pesto and Goat Cheese Turnover, Cornmeal-Molasses and Pecan Skillet Trout, and Agave & Lime Grilled Chicken Breast. Truly a transcendent dining experience.

Description:

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon offers visitors the only "in-park" lodging at Bryce Canyon National Park. From this convenient location, guests have access to hiking, biking and breathtaking views from the canyon rim. The lodge itself is rustic, relaxed and refined; visitors can choose between private cabins, rooms and suites, and can enjoy fine dining in the restaurant in the main lodge.