Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

This southern Utah park has some beautiful formations caused by erosion. A great place for hiking and outdoor photography, this park is also a favorite with those looking for a place to view the night sky far from city lights. It’s a bit far for a day trip, but if you’re on the way to Salt Lake City from Las Vegas, it’s well worth a stop.

The park is located off US89. From US 89, take Utah 12 east to the junction of Utah 12 and 63. Turn south on Utah 63 and continue to the park. If you are traveling from the east, take Utah 12 west to the intersection of Utah 63. Turn south.

The park may seem like it’s located a long way from civilization, but if you visit on a peak weekend you’ll see that civilization has come to Bryce Canyon. To cut back on the number of cars in the park, the park is instituting a shuttle bus service between mid-May and the end of September. Use of the shuttle isn’t mandatory, but if you bring your vehicle in the park you’ll have to pay a $5 fee.

Hiking is the top activity in the park, with over 50 miles of trails from which to choose. Families might consider the 1/2 mile walk on Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Points.

Kids ages 12 and under can take part in the Junior Ranger Program here. Children attend a ranger-led activity so they’ll need about a day’s visit to the park to complete their booklets and pick up a Junior Ranger certificate (or spring for a patch for $1).

The Bryce Canyon Lodge offers guest rooms and cabins from April 1 through the end of October. For reservations, write Amfac Parks and Resorts, Inc., 14001 East Iliff Ave., Suite 600, Aurora, CO 80014 or call 303/297-2757. Lodging is also available outside the park.

Campers have two options in the park, both on a first-come, first served basis. The campgrounds have no hookups but they’re still plenty popular – if you don’t get there shortly after lunch you won’t get a space.

For more information, contact the Bryce Canyon National Park, PO Box 170001, Bryce Canyon, Utah 84717-0001, Tel. 435/834-5322.