Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah, a magnificent place showcasing crimson-colored hoodoos that are spired-shaped rock formations. We were on a road trip to explore all the national parks in the state of Utah and Bryce Canyon National Park was the fourth one for us to visit. We were driving from Capital Reef National Park and it was during the late afternoon when we reached the park.
Day 1
The first thing we did after checking in at the hotel was to go to the Visitor Center to gather maps and information to make the best of our time at the National Park.
After that, we officially started our adventure and went to the Sunset Point Overlook to witness the magic of the place. We saw the dense concentration of hoodoos for the first time which really felt like otherworldly. After we enjoyed the sunset we wrapped up our day with a lot of excitement for the hike we were about to do the next day.
Day 2
The next morning we woke up really early to watch the sunrise from the Inspiration Point, indeed it was a magnificent sunrise, and saw the canyon turning into a vibrant golden wonderland highlighting the intricate details of the hoodoos.
After the sunrise, we went to the hotel had our breakfast, and embarked on the most awaited hike we had been excited about. We took the Rim Trail to access the Queens Garden Trail. The hike was an easy to moderate one, it took us through the world of hoodoos. It was the first time I actually saw them so close and was impressed with the towering rock formation which is what makes Bryce Canyon so much more picturesque.
We continued our journey on Queens Garden Trail and later joined the Navajo Loop Trail and came to the very famous Navajo Loop switchbacks which were without a doubt an awe-inspiring sight.
After the hike, we returned back to the hotel and took some rest. In the late afternoon, we drove on the Bryce Canyon scenic drive to continue our adventure to explore the southern part of the park. The views were spectacular, we took several stops along the way, Yovimpa Point, Black Birch Canyon, Agua Canyon Overlook, and Bryce Natural Bridge which is a must-see viewpoint in the national park. All those viewpoints provided a unique perspective on the natural beauty and geography of those formations.
In the evening we returned back to Bryce Point to witness another spectacular sunset. In general, the colors of the canyon during sunset and sunrise are just a magical charm.
Day 3
It was the day we had to embark on to the next destination of the Utah road trip, so in the morning we went on a small hike to the Mossey Cave Trail, it was a short hike that led us to the Tropic Ditch Falls. Along the way, we got access to walk on the water which was a fun experience considering the temperature on that particular day. The fall is a hidden gem surrounded by greenery, definitely a serene contrast to the landscape.
As we left the park, we were just thinking how incredible and unique the National Park was and decided to come back during winter to witness yet another perspective of the hoodoos in the Canyon.