Red Rock Gem: Bryce Canyon National Park

Located just a bit to the north and east (about an hour and a half) of the famous Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park is a little-known gem. It is kind of out of the way, and most people don't think about it when they are touring the southwest. This, however, deprives thousands of people each year of an amazing opportunity to set eyes on one of the most unique landscapes offered anywhere in the United States.

Bryce Canyon is located in Utah, right on Highway 12. The trick, however, is getting to Highway 12. It is located of U.S. 89, a thoroughfare that you can take to get to Zion National Park, or to the Grand Canyon (you have to turn off to get to those places, though). If you are coming down Interstate 15, you will have to cross over the mountains on one of three highways: 9, 14, or 20. Highway 89 also intersects directly with Interstate 70. So, while it is relatively secluded, Bryce Canyon is fairly easy to get to.

The most magnificent features of the canyon are the hoodoos. These are the names given to the very tall spires that seem to grow from the canyon floor. They are the results of erosion over thousands of years, creating a rather odd pattern. You can tour the park and see it from different vantages by making use of a free bus system, by driving in your car, or by taking advantage of some of the many hiking trails.

Perhaps the most spectacular trial is the Under the Rim trail. Its length is 23 miles and you will need a backcountry permit. Luckily, they are available right at the Bryce Canyon visitor center for right around five dollars. There are several campsites, but no bathrooms or running water along the trail. The privations, however, are well worth it. The trail starts out at Bryce Point (a rather famous amphitheater style bowl filled with hoodoos) and ends at Rainbow Point. 

Both of the views at these points can be accessed by bus or car. What can't be seen is much of the intervening multi-colored rock and the magnificent natural arches and rock formations. While some are visible from various points in the park, the true interaction takes place when you are beyond the guardrails and people and below the rim.