At Bryce Canyon National Park, erosion has shaped colorful Claron limestones, sandstones, and mudstones into thousands of spires, fins, pinnacles, and mazes. Collectively called "hoodoos," these colorful and whimsical formations stand in horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters along the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in Southern Utah.Suggestions for a visit:
With a short time to spend in the park:Stop in at the Visitor Center for information, exhibits, and a 22-minute award-winning film which plays on the hour and half-hour. Publications and maps are available for purchase through the Bryce Canyon Natural History Association.Drive to Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration and Bryce viewpoints. Then hike a canyon trail or stroll along the rim. Check at the Visitor Center for current trail conditions. Take in a ranger program. Current schedules of ranger activities can be found at the Visitor Center.With one or more days to spend in the park (in addition to the above):Drive to Rainbow Point (18 miles one way) and stop at the 13 viewpoints on your return trip. Check at the Visitor Center for current road conditions and closures.Join us for a whole spectrum of ranger programs.Take a wrangler-guided horseback ride on a 2 or 4-hour ride into the canyon.In winter, snowshoe or cross-country ski the plateau top. Rental cross-country ski equipment and snowshoes are available outside the park.Wildlife commonly seen at Bryce Canyon National Park includes: Mule Deer, Utah Prairie Dogs, Chipmunks, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels, Pronghorn (antelope), Gray Fox, Ravens, Steller's Jays, Clark's Nutcrackers, Red-tailed Hawks, Turkeys, and Mountain Short-horned Lizards. Black Bear, Elk, and Mountain Lions are rarely seen. |
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