Natural Scenic Wonders of North America
Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

Two fabulous National Parks within 100 miles of each other.

Bryce National Park

The park is quite large but one can take a drive (10-15 miles) thru it and there are many scenic points where one can stop at overlooks that will provide the opportunity to view and take countless pictures.
The "hoodoo's" and views of this canyon make this one of my favorites. The walk down to the canyon, although very strenuous will not be forgotten. From my point of view this rates only behind the Grand Canyon (southern exposure). The closeness that one is able to get to many of the sights here does help to create an atmosphere of being there as time went by to create these magnificent "hoodoos". If it were just one hoodoo, impressions may not last a lifetime, but when there it seems ther is literally thousands, with differing heights. This sight will be very hard to forget. If you are able to try one of many walks, do attempt it, but I would also recommend spending an evening in the area.
PS: Accommodation seems very limited here, so do reserve ahead if you wish to stay in the area.

Bryce Canyon - the Hoodoos

This walking pathway (one of many) thru the hoodoos is rather strenuous and should not be attempted by many. Read the posted signs to ensure that you are physically able to take the walk. If you are able to then it will be one of your favorites forever. Being up close to the hoodoos and seeing the tremendous size of some of them gives you a different perspective as each of them have their own character.
Keep in mind that all trails below the rim involve steep climbs out of the canyon. Wear hiking boots with good traction and ankle support. Drink plenty of water. Know and respect your own physical limitations.

Another beautiful park. Together with Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon this makes a great threesome to visit. Many walking trails but we chose the Riverwalk and I was not disappointed except for the fact that footwear was not adequate. The Canyons and different colors in this area made for a very enjoyable day. During the summer vacation period a tram is provided to travel up the Canyon to relieve the traffic. This made it much easier to view the surrounding sites and ever closing canyon walls. The park also has an excellent Inn and restaurant within it`s borders.
This park has something for everyone. We took the park bus tour ( only vehicle during summer period ) that allowed one to stop at over 10 different points during the trip. Walking tours are available at all stops, and the Park Inn provides for tourist shopping also. Extremely scenic area especially with the stream flowing down between the adjacent mountain walls.

Zion - the Riverwalk

There are many different excursions that one can take when in the Zion National Park confines. We chose the most popular, the Riverwalk, that followed the stream into the closing canyon walls. Shoes worn should consider the possibility of walking thru the stream at many points, at least after a good sidewalk ends. In many spots here the width of the canyon is less than 50-100 feet, yet the height of the canyon walls is far above.
Need to be energetic plus have the ability to walk or wade through cool waters if you wish to go further than the paved trail. Must admit that it was rather enjoyable and would still attempt if health permits. Make sure you take one of those walking sticks and wear a pair of shoes that you do mind getting wet. Sandals are not advisable as mine did not provide adequate support.