Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
•
NorthCampground
(Bryce Canyon National Park): While both of Bryce Canyon Na-
tional Park's campgrounds offer plenty of trees, providing that genuine “forest
camping” experience, North Campground is closer to the Rim Trail than the
park's other campground, making it easier to rush over to catch those amazing
sunrise colors.
•
Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground
(near Bryce Canyon National Park): For those
who want full RV hookups, a woodsy camping experience, lots of amenities, and
easy access to the national park, this is the place to be. Part of a giant complex
containing a motel, shops, swimming pools, and all sorts of other attractions and
activities, this campground has trees and open space as well.
The Best Backcountry Camping
•
LaVerkinCreek/KolobArchTrails
(Zion National Park): You'll have to sign up in ad-
vance for one of the isolated campsites along this spectacularly scenic trail in the
Kolob Canyons. The trail takes you through forests of conifers, cottonwoods, and
box elders, past hanging gardens and a series of waterfalls. There is also a side
trip to a view of Kolob Arch—at over 300 feet wide, one of the largest natural
arches in the world.
The Best Lodging
•
ZionLodge
(Zion National Park;
&
435/772-7700
): The handsome Zion Lodge was
built by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1925. Tragedy struck in 1966, when it was
destroyed by fire. However, it was rebuilt the following year in its original style,
and continues to offer the best lodging and location in Zion. Situated in a forest
with spectacular views of the park's rock cliffs, it offers both cabins and motel
rooms. Each of the charming cabins has a private porch, stone (gas-burning) fire-
place, two double beds, and log beams.
•
Flanigan'sInn
(near Zion National Park;
&
800/765-7787
or 435/772-3244): Made
of natural wood and rock, and set among trees, lawns, and flowers just outside
the entrance to Zion National Park, this very attractive complex has a mountain-
lodge atmosphere. It's a place where you actually want to spend some
time—unlike some other area options, which are just good places to crash at the
end of a busy day.
•
The Lodge at Bryce Canyon
(Bryce Canyon National Park;
&
435/834-8700
): This
handsome sandstone and ponderosa pine lodge is the perfect place to stay while
visiting the park. Opened in 1924, it has all the atmosphere of the 1920s, but it
also has most of the modern conveniences people expect today. Especially re-
commended are its delightful cabins, which have been authentically restored
and contain gas-burning stone fireplaces. Those wanting a bit more elegance will
