Bryce Canyon is the smallest of the Utah national parks at roughly 55 square miles. The main geological draw is Bryce Canyon itself, although I learned that it's not actually a canyon, but instead, a collection of giant natural amphitheaters along the eastern wall of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The staggering size made it difficult for me to capture on my iPhone.
Bryce has some arches, but nothing compared to Arches National Park (hence the name). The most distinctive geological feature in Bryce are called hoodoos, although I've always heard them referred to as tent rocks or my personal favorite, fairy chimneys. The Paiute Indians once inhabited this area and they believed that the hoodoos were a race of people called the Legend People, who were turned to stone by a mythical character called Coyote, as punishment for bad deeds.
I spent the day hiking and taking pictures, taking breaks to eat along the trails and out of the back of my SUV. It was a long, hot day and I was struck by the stark difference in landscape after spending the last few days in the lush old growth forests of Montana.
The one thing I wish I had done during this leg of the trip is rent a bike, so I could ride the Canyon 2 Canyon Trail. The trail is paved for the entire 20 mile length and I think this would be an incredible way to see the park. Next time!
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