Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
It would be easy to spend a week in Bryce Canyon, starting with the visitor center,
moving along to the scenic drive, taking a few short walks, and then advancing to
more serious hikes. But what makes this park so attractive is that there are ways to
see a good deal of Bryce in a short amount of time.
Spotting Peregrine Falcons
For a good chance to see peregrine falcons, go to Paria View, sit quietly away from the crowds, and
then look out over the amphitheater, where these beautiful birds can often be spotted.
Get an early start, stopping first at the
visitorcenter,
of course, where you can
watch an introductory video that explains some of the area's geology—the
why
and
how
of Bryce. Then either drive the 18-mile (each way) dead-end
scenicdrive
, stop-
ping at viewpoints to gaze down into the canyon (see “Seeing the Park by Car,” be-
low), or hop onto the
shuttle
(see “Seeing the Park by Shuttle” below), which will
take you to most of the main viewpoints. Whichever way you choose to get around,
spend at least a little time at
InspirationPoint,
which offers a splendid (and yes,
inspirational) view into
BryceAmphitheater
and its hundreds of statuesque pink,
red, orange, and brown hoodoo stone sculptures.
After seeing the canyon from up above, we recommend that you get some ex-
ercise by walking at least part of the way down into the canyon on the
Queen's
GardenTrail.
If you can spare 3 hours, hike down the
NavajoLoopTrail
★and re-
turn to the rim via
Queen'sGardenTrail
(both are described in chapter 6, “Hikes
& Other Outdoor Pursuits in Bryce Canyon National Park”). Those not willing or
physically able to hike into the canyon can enjoy a leisurely walk along the
Rim
Trail,
which provides spectacular views down into the canyon. In the evening, try
to take in a campground amphitheater program (different programs are held in all
the different campground's amphitheaters).
wildlife
Viewing
Bryce Canyon has a wide variety of wildlife, ranging from mule deer—which seem to be almost
everywhere—to the golden-mantled ground squirrel and Uinta chipmunk. Also in the park are
black-tailed jackrabbits, coyotes, striped skunks, and deer mice. Occasionally, visitors catch a
glimpse of a mountain lion, most likely on the prowl in search of a mule-deer dinner. Elk and prong-
horn may also be seen at higher elevations.
The Utah prairie dog, listed as a threatened species, is actually a rodent and not a distant canine
relative. It inhabits park meadows in busy colonies and can be fascinating to watch. However,
