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In the park

Bryce Canyon National Park is famed for being home to "hoodoos" – those funky, otherworldly-looking wind-carved spires of red rock. Multi-hued natural stone amphitheaters and some of the best star-gazing in the United States also make this destination a jaw-dropping feast for the eyes. Visitors can explore the canyon on foot, horseback, or mountain bike, although the latter two have certain restrictions. While open year-round, snow at this 9,000-foot elevation park may sometimes inspire temporary road closures as well as a demand for cautious driving, so know what you're getting into before you head out.

Check your calendar and plan to take in a popular full moon hike or experience one of Bryce's renowned star-gazing programs. The classic quick hike for a full frontal assault of the Park's beauty is Navajo Loop; if you're a backpacker, the multi-day Under-the-Rim Trail is the best pick. Depending on the time of year you visit, Bryce's clean-running shuttle system may be in effect (late May-early September), so plan to park your car and hop on board. The shuttle will run you through 14 stops, including the best viewpoints (such as Sunset Point and Bryce Point), the Visitor's Center, and the campgrounds.

The restaurants in the sparsely populated surrounding environs boast little more than lackluster diner food, although you might find decent fare at Ruby's Inn Canyon Diner and a truly mouth-watering slice of pie heaven at Bryce Canyon Pines. You're best off bringing in your own food and taking a sweet trek along the Peek-a-Boo Loop (a bit crowded but gorgeous) or Hat Shop Trail (underrated but seriously neat).