(Photo credit: memyselfandtheinterstate.com) |
As with all national parks, visitors should check out the website for the National Park Service before they visit. The site will give ideas for everyone depending on how much time is available for the visit. The most popular section of the park is the amphitheater region. Visitors have a choice of fourteen overlooks in the park. Some give a close look at the hoodoo rock formations and others give an impressive view of the entire amphitheater area. The most famous overlooks are Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point and Sunrise Point. These are located in the amphitheater area. For those who do not have a lot of time at spend in Bryce, stopping at these points will give a good view of the park.
(Photo credit: memyselfandtheinterstate.com) |
(Photo credit: memyselfandtheinterstate.com) |
Bryce Canyon has a lodge with a dining room and a general store which are both located near Sunrise Point. These facilities are closed in mid-November and reopen at the beginning of April. The park is open all year, but some roads are closed in winter during snow storms.
Water is available and hikers should make sure to take enough for the hot summer conditions. I began my hike early in the morning one summer. The rock formations were fascinating and I wanted to see more. Soon the temperature started to go up and I had finished my water. I still had to climb my way back to the top. I became dehydrated and knew I needed help. Fortunately, a park ranger came by in a very small vehicle. I had the amazing experience of sitting looking backward as I rode up seeing Bryce Canyon from an angle most do not see. I received medical attention and was fine. I think that is one reason I am so fond of Bryce. I thank the rangers every time I return. I learned a lesson that day that sometimes a simple hike can present challenges to one's safety.
(Photo credit: memyselfandtheinterstate.com) |
In addition to the information available on the National Park Service website, visitor can also check the reviews on TripAdvisor to get tips from other travelers about the area. People have also posted videos to YouTube that show their hiking experience. These a worth a look to determine whether a trail would be suitable for a particular individual or group.
Many debate whether Bryce or Zion is the best park. Although Zion is impressive, I find the crowds detract from the experience. Bryce does not have the impressive rock formations of Zion, but I find it a more manageable experience. Exploring the floor of Bryce Canyon was one of my favorite national park experiences. As with all the national parks in Utah, each has its own aspects. No two parks are the same and all deserve a visit.
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