Afisha Life | Zion i Bryce Canyon: Wycieczka samochodowa z dźwiękiem

1

Park Narodowy Zion

Ponieważ audioprzewodniki odtwarzają komentarze na podstawie Twojej lokalizacji GPS, możesz stworzyć własną trasę wzdłuż trasy wycieczki, aby dopasować ją do swoich zainteresowań i harmonogramu. Możesz też skorzystać z naszych narzędzi do planowania podróży, aby uzyskać nasze sugestie dotyczące półdniowych, pełnych lub kilkudniowych tras. Poniżej wymieniono niektóre z wielu najważniejszych wydarzeń;

2

Park Narodowy Bryce Canyon

Ponieważ audioprzewodniki odtwarzają komentarze na podstawie Twojej lokalizacji GPS, możesz stworzyć własną trasę wzdłuż trasy wycieczki, aby dopasować ją do swoich zainteresowań i harmonogramu. Możesz też skorzystać z naszych narzędzi do planowania podróży, aby uzyskać nasze sugestie dotyczące półdniowych, pełnych lub kilkudniowych tras. Poniżej wymieniono niektóre z wielu najważniejszych wydarzeń;

3

Punkt inspiracji

Inspiration Point to 3 różne widoki połączone w jedno. Istnieją 3 poziomy lub platformy, z których każda wspina się wyżej i otwiera nowe widoki w dół do tego, co nazywa się Cichym Miastem. Z tego miejsca szczególnie łatwo jest wyraźnie zobaczyć różne kolory pasm lub warstw w kapturach – od białego przez różowy po rdzawy.

4

Punkt Zachodu Słońca

W Sunset Point zbliżamy się do kapturów i możemy zobaczyć szczegóły formacji i wzorców erozji. Poszczególne formacje mają nazwy takie jak Młot Thora. Sunset Point to początek jednej z ulubionych wędrówek do amfiteatru - Szlaku Navajo Loop Trail. Wycieczka schodzi poniżej krawędzi, a wędrówki mogą przebiegać przez formacje, takie jak Wall Street i Two Bridges. Pętla ma 1,3 mili, ale szlak jest miejscami stromy.

5

Droga krajobrazowa Bryce Canyon

Największą gwiazdą Parku Narodowego Bryce Canyon jest oczywiście amfiteatr, z którego odwiedzający mogą podziwiać wspaniałe widoki na formacje hoodoo. Za amfiteatrem znajduje się 18-milowy Scenic Drive, który prowadzi aż do Rainbow Point, najwyższego i najbardziej wysuniętego na południe miejsca w parku. Wzdłuż podjazdu znajduje się co najmniej 8 różnych wyciągów i punktów widokowych, z których każdy ma inną cechę Parku. Możesz zatrzymać się na niektórych lub wszystkich z nich. Nasze ulubione to Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge i Farview Point.

6

Punkt Bryce'a

To subiektywny wybór, ale naszym zdaniem jest to najlepsze miejsce na pierwsze spojrzenie na hoodoo, ponieważ znajduje się najdalej i zapewnia najszerszy i wspaniały widok, który oddaje ogrom amfiteatru. To jest południowy punkt końcowy Rim Trail. Jeśli chcesz przejść się po obręczy, która zapewni Ci każdy widok, możesz zaparkować i zacząć tutaj, a później złapać bezpłatny autobus, aby wrócić do swojego pojazdu.

7

Szmaragdowe baseny

Znajdujące się na Zion Canyon Scenic Drive Emerald Pools to ulubiona wędrówka, która nie jest zbyt męcząca, ale spacerowicze muszą być w stanie wędrować około 60-90 minut po nieutwardzonym szlaku. Pierwszą główną atrakcją wędrówki jest Dolny Szmaragdowy Basen. To, co jest tutaj tak przyjemne, to fakt, że faktycznie idziemy za strumieniem wodospadów w nawisie przypominającym jaskinię. Mgiełka działa odświeżająco i chłodząco. Chociaż szlak podlega warunkom, a szlak został niedawno uszkodzony i naprawiony, wędrowcy mogą wybrać kontynuację do basenów środkowego i górnego. Kontynuacja wędrówki jest bardziej uciążliwa niż wejście do Dolnego Basenu, więc możesz zdecydować, czy iść dalej, czy zawrócić. Początek szlaku znajduje się naprzeciwko Zion National Park Lodge i jest to przystanek, z którego należy skorzystać, jeśli obowiązuje obowiązkowy transfer.

8

Cmentarz Grafton

Krótka i zabawna objazd autostradą 9 między La Verkin i Springdale przy zachodnim wejściu do Parku Narodowego Zion polega na krótkiej przejażdżce do Grafton Ghost Town. Możesz zwiedzić niektóre stare opuszczone budynki i odwiedzić cmentarz, jeśli nie uznasz tego za zbyt przerażające. Podczas wycieczki dowiesz się, gdzie skręcić w małym miasteczku Rockville, a następnie przeprawić się na południową stronę rzeki Virgin na 15 minut jazdy samochodem do miasta duchów.

9

Mesa szachownicy

Być może najbardziej znanym i najczęściej fotografowanym punktem orientacyjnym we Wschodnim Syjonie jest Mesa Szachownicowa. Ten skalny półstożek charakteryzuje się poziomymi i pionowymi pęknięciami, które nadają mu wygląd szachownicy. Dla najlepszych zdjęć tej geologicznej osobliwości znajduje się dedykowane wyciągnięcie i punkt widokowy.

10

Góra Syjon Tunel Karmelu

Jadąc przez cały park, między wejściem wschodnim i południowym, podążamy autostradą nr 9. Krótkie serpentyny pomagają szybko wspiąć się na 1000 stóp pionowego wzniesienia. Na szczycie tych zakrętów inżynierowie drogowi nie mieli dokąd pójść, dlatego tunel Zion-Mt Carmel został stworzony dla ruchu tranzytowego. Tunel jest niezwykły, ponieważ ma tylko jeden pas szerokości, więc może pomieścić tylko większe pojazdy, takie jak duże samochody kempingowe, w jednym kierunku na raz. Park Rangers mają system kierowania ruchem przez tunel – ale być może będziesz musiał uzbroić się w cierpliwość w tej interesującej części podjazdu.

11

Springdale

Większość odwiedzających Zion wykorzysta miasto Springdale jako bazę wypadową do zwiedzania parku. Miasto znajduje się w sąsiedztwie południowego wejścia. Springdale to miasto oferujące pełen zakres usług, z doskonałą kolekcją hoteli i zakwaterowania, restauracji i kawiarni. Kupujący będą cieszyć się zwiedzaniem wielu galerii. Jeśli planujesz brodzić w The Narrows, w mieście są sklepy odzieżowe, które zapewnią ci cały niezbędny sprzęt – zwykle najlepiej wypożyczyć.

12

Narrows

Na końcu Scenic Drive Zion Canyon dochodzimy do obszaru, w którym możemy cieszyć się spacerem nad rzeką, całkowicie otoczonym wspaniałymi pionowymi klifami z czerwonej skały Syjonu. Nazywana jest także Świątynią Sinawava. Gdy dotrzemy do końca Riverside Walk – tam zaczyna się prawdziwa zabawa. Tu zaczyna się The Narrows. Nie ma powodu, aby przestać iść tylko dlatego, że dotarłeś do Virgin River, stąd sama rzeka staje się szlakiem. Wędrowcy korzystają z rzeki, aby podążać wzdłuż kanionu, ponieważ ściany zbliżają się i stają się jeszcze bardziej imponujące. Woda jest zazwyczaj chłodna, więc na Narrows trzeba założyć sprzęt do brodzenia, buty do canyoneeringu, które zapewniają lepszą przyczepność podczas przechodzenia przez rzekę, oraz suchy worek do bezpiecznego przechowywania kosztowności. Solidny kijek do chodzenia nie tylko dopełnia wygląd, ale także pomaga ustabilizować Cię podczas brodzenia. Większość przeciętnych turystów przejdzie 3-4 mile przed zawróceniem. Przez większość czasu woda jest głęboka tylko do kostek, ale w niektórych miejscach może sięgać do pasa.

13

Szlak Płaczącej Skały

To świetny przystanek wzdłuż Zion Scenic Drive Road. Zaledwie krótki spacer pod górę o długości 1/4 mili prowadzi do uroczego wiszącego ogrodu i jest to kolejne miejsce, w którym znajdziesz się „wewnątrz” pięknego wodospadu. Zdecydowanie warto poświęcić około 30 minut, aby cieszyć się tym doświadczeniem. Istnieją 2 inne popularne wędrówki, które wymagają znacznie większego wysiłku, które rozpoczynają się w tym miejscu. Hidden Canyon to 5-milowa wycieczka w obie strony do ukrytego kanionu - bez niespodzianek. Wędrówka jest dość odsłonięta, a żelazne łańcuchy są dostarczane, aby pomóc ci pozostać na szlaku w niektórych miejscach. Stąd też rozpoczyna się najtrudniejsza jednodniowa wędrówka w parku, 8-milowa wędrówka do Punktu Obserwacyjnego wspina się na szczyt płaskowyżu - wznosząc się na wysokość 2150 stóp w pionie. To dobry trening!

14

Czerwony kanion

Autostrada 12 łączy Park Narodowy Bryce Canyon z autostradą 89, która jest główną trasą łączącą Zion i Bryce. 12 miniemy Czerwony Kanion. Masz możliwość dołączenia do ciekawych wędrówek tutaj, ale dla większości wycieczkowiczów główną atrakcją jest zatrzymanie się i zrobienie zdjęć dwóch krótkich tuneli, które zostały wyrzeźbione w skalnych płetwach, które umożliwiają przejazd autostradą.

15

Szlak Groty

Grotto Trail to łatwy płaski spacer, który wielu ludzi lubi jako sposób na rozprostowanie nóg i dostęp do Zion Lodge. Ale to miejsce jest znacznie bardziej znane jako punkt wyjścia do trudnej wędrówki Angel's Landing. Ta wędrówka jest zalecana tylko dla doświadczonych i przygotowanych turystów, którzy czują się komfortowo z wysokościami. Odcinek najtrudniejszy pod względem mentalnym to przejście przez wąską półkę skalną, 1500 stóp nad dnem doliny. Trasa ma łącznie 5 mil i wymaga znacznych przewyższeń. Jest tak popularna, że momentami na szlaku może być wręcz tłoczno.

16

Punkt wschodu słońca

To jest punkt widokowy na amfiteatr, który znajduje się najbliżej wejścia do Bryce Canyon. Po raz kolejny możemy podziwiać z bliska niepewnie zrównoważone iglice i formacje, które wyglądają na gotowe do poddania się i zawalenia. Ci, którzy chcą wędrować do amfiteatru, dołączą do Queens Garden Trail. Tę wędrówkę można wykonać jako szlak na zewnątrz i z powrotem przez 1,8 mili lub można go połączyć ze szlakiem Navajo Loop, aby zakończyć w Sunset Point. Istnieje niezliczona ilość niesamowitych formacji, którymi będziesz się cieszyć podczas wędrówki, i będziesz chciał zatrzymać się na zdjęcia przy niektórych baśniowych drzwiach, które prowadzą przez niektóre formacje. Szlak bierze swoją nazwę od konkretnego kaptura, który wygląda jak królowa Wiktoria - to nie przesada!

17

Zion National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

18

Bryce Canyon National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

19

Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point is 3 different views combined into one. There are 3 tiers or platforms, each one climbing higher and opening new vistas down into what is called the Silent City. From this location, it's especially easy to clearly see the different colors of the bands or stratas in the hoodoos - ranging from white to pink to rust colored.

20

Sunset Point

At Sunset Point, we are getting quite close to the hoodoos and can see details of the formation and erosion patterns. Individual formations have names like Thor's Hammer. Sunset Point is the trailhead for one of the favorite hikes into the Amphitheater - the Navajo Loop Trail. The hike descends down below the rim and hikes can walk through formations like Wall Street and Two Bridges. The loop is 1.3 miles, but the trail is steep in places.

21

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The greatest star of the Bryce Canyon National Park is of course the Amphitheater where visitors enjoy superb views of the hoodoo formations. Past the Amphitheater is the 18-mile Scenic Drive, which continues all the way to Rainbow Point, the highest and southernmost location in the park. Along the drive there are at least 8 different pullouts and viewpoints that each share a different feature of the Park. You can choose to stop at some or all of them. Our favorites are Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge and Farview Point.

22

Bryce Point

It's a subjective choice, but in our opinion this is the best place to take in your first views of the hoodoos, as it is located the furtherest away and provides the widest and grand views that captures the enormity of the Amphitheater. This is the southern end point of the Rim Trail. If you want to walk the rim which will provide you with every view, you can park and start here, and then later catch the free shuttle to get back to your vehicle.

23

Emerald Pools

Located on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Emerald Pools is a favourite hike that is not too strenuous, but walkers need to be capable of hiking roughly 60-90 minutes on an unpaved trail. The first major highlight of the hike is the Lower Emerald Pool. What is so enjoyable here is that we actually walk behind the spray of the waterfalls in a cave-like overhang. The mist is refreshing and cooling. Though subject to trail conditions, and the trail has been recently damaged and repaired, hikers can choose to continue on to the Middle and Upper Pools. The continuation of the hike is more strenuous than accessing the Lower Pool, so you can decide whether to continue or turn around. The trailhead is opposite Zion National Park Lodge, and that is the stop to use if the mandatory shuttle is in effect.

24

Grafton Cemetary

A short and fun diversion on Highway 9 between La Verkin and Springdale at the western entrance to Zion National Park, is to take the short drive to the Grafton Ghost Town. You can explore some of the old abandoned buildings, and visit the cemetery if you don't find that too creepy. The tour will let you know where to turn off in the small town of Rockville, and then cross to the southside of the Virgin River for the 15 minute drive to the ghost town site.

25

Checkerboard Mesa

Perhaps the best-known and most photographed landmark in East Zion is the Checkerboard Mesa. This rock half-cone is characterized by horizontal and vertical cracks that give it that checkerboard appearance. There is a dedicated pullout and viewpoint for the best photos of this geological oddity.

26

Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Driving all the way across the park, between the East and South Entrances, follows Highway 9. Short switchbacks help the road quickly climb 1000 feet of vertical rise. At the top of those switchbacks, road engineers had nowhere else to go, and so the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel was created for through traffic. The tunnel is unusual in that it is only one lane wide, so it can only accommodate larger vehicles, like large RVs, in one direction at a time. Park Rangers have a system to get traffic through the tunnel - but you may need to exercise patience for this interesting part of the drive.

27

Springdale

Most visitors to Zion will use the town of Springdale as their base for visiting the park. The town is located adjacent to the south entrance. Springdale is a full-service town with an excellent collection of hotels and accommodations, restaurants and cafes. Shoppers will enjoy the exploring the many galleries. If you are planning the wade in The Narrows, there are outfitters in town that will set you up with all the necessary gear - which is usually best to rent.

28

The Narrows

At the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, we come to an area where we can enjoy the riverside walk, completely surrounded by Zion's magnificent vertical red rock cliffs. It's also called the Temple of Sinawava. Once we reach the end of the Riverside Walk - that's where the fun really starts. This is where The Narrows begins. There's no reason to stop walking just because you've reached the Virgin River, from here the river itself become the trail. Hikers use the river to continue following the canyon, as the walls close in and become even more imposing. The water tends to be chilly, so to do the Narrows, you wear wading gear, canyoneering shoes for better grip as you walk through the river, and a drysack to keep your valuables safe. And a sturdy walking pole is not just to complete the look, but helps stabilize you as you wade. Most average hikers will go 3-4 miles before turning back. Most of the time the water is only ankle deep, but it can get waist deep in some places.

29

Weeping Rock Trail

This is a great stop along the Zion Scenic Drive Road. Just a short 1/4 mile uphill walk gets you to a lovely hanging garden and this is another location where you will be on the "inside" of a fine waterfall. Its definitely worth the 30 minutes or so that it takes to enjoy the experience. There are 2 other popular hikes that require much more effort that depart from this location. Hidden Canyon is a 5-mile round trip to a hidden canyon - no surprise. The hike is quite exposed and iron chains are provided to help you stay on the trail in places. The toughest day hike in the Park also leaves from here, the 8-mile Observation Point hike climbs to the top of the mesa - rising 2150 vertical feet. Its a good workout!

30

Red Canyon

Highway 12 joins Bryce Canyon National Park to Highway 89, which is the main route to connect Zion and Bryce. On 12, we will pass the Red Canyon. You have the choice to join some interesting hikes here, but for most road trippers, the highlight is to stop and take photos of two short tunnels that have been carved through rock fins that allow the highway to pass through.

31

Grotto Trail

The Grotto Trail is an easy flat walk that many people enjoy as a way to stretch their legs and access the Zion Lodge. But this location is far more famous as the starting point for the challenging Angel's Landing hike. That hike is only recommended for experienced and prepared hikers who are comfortable with heights. The most challenging section - mentally, is the crossing of a narrow ledge, 1,500 feet above the valley floor. The hike overall is 5-miles and requires significant elevation gain. It is so popular, that the trail can be downright crowded at times.

32

Sunrise Point

This is the viewpoint for the Amphitheater that is closest to the entrance for Bryce Canyon. Once again, we get to enjoy close up views of precariously balanced spires and formations that look ready to give up and collapse. Those who want to hike into the Amphitheater will join the the Queens Garden Trail. This hike can be done as an out-and-back trail for 1.8 miles, or can be combined with the Navajo Loop trail to finish at Sunset Point. There are countless amazing formations that you will enjoy on the hike, and you will want to stop for photos at some of the fairy-like doorways that take you right through some formations. The trail gets its name from a particular hoodoo that looks like Queen Victoria - that's no exaggeration!

33

Zion National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

34

Bryce Canyon National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

35

Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point is 3 different views combined into one. There are 3 tiers or platforms, each one climbing higher and opening new vistas down into what is called the Silent City. From this location, it's especially easy to clearly see the different colors of the bands or stratas in the hoodoos - ranging from white to pink to rust colored.

36

Sunset Point

At Sunset Point, we are getting quite close to the hoodoos and can see details of the formation and erosion patterns. Individual formations have names like Thor's Hammer. Sunset Point is the trailhead for one of the favorite hikes into the Amphitheater - the Navajo Loop Trail. The hike descends down below the rim and hikes can walk through formations like Wall Street and Two Bridges. The loop is 1.3 miles, but the trail is steep in places.

37

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The greatest star of the Bryce Canyon National Park is of course the Amphitheater where visitors enjoy superb views of the hoodoo formations. Past the Amphitheater is the 18-mile Scenic Drive, which continues all the way to Rainbow Point, the highest and southernmost location in the park. Along the drive there are at least 8 different pullouts and viewpoints that each share a different feature of the Park. You can choose to stop at some or all of them. Our favorites are Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge and Farview Point.

38

Bryce Point

It's a subjective choice, but in our opinion this is the best place to take in your first views of the hoodoos, as it is located the furtherest away and provides the widest and grand views that captures the enormity of the Amphitheater. This is the southern end point of the Rim Trail. If you want to walk the rim which will provide you with every view, you can park and start here, and then later catch the free shuttle to get back to your vehicle.

39

Emerald Pools

Located on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Emerald Pools is a favourite hike that is not too strenuous, but walkers need to be capable of hiking roughly 60-90 minutes on an unpaved trail. The first major highlight of the hike is the Lower Emerald Pool. What is so enjoyable here is that we actually walk behind the spray of the waterfalls in a cave-like overhang. The mist is refreshing and cooling. Though subject to trail conditions, and the trail has been recently damaged and repaired, hikers can choose to continue on to the Middle and Upper Pools. The continuation of the hike is more strenuous than accessing the Lower Pool, so you can decide whether to continue or turn around. The trailhead is opposite Zion National Park Lodge, and that is the stop to use if the mandatory shuttle is in effect.

40

Grafton Cemetary

A short and fun diversion on Highway 9 between La Verkin and Springdale at the western entrance to Zion National Park, is to take the short drive to the Grafton Ghost Town. You can explore some of the old abandoned buildings, and visit the cemetery if you don't find that too creepy. The tour will let you know where to turn off in the small town of Rockville, and then cross to the southside of the Virgin River for the 15 minute drive to the ghost town site.

41

Checkerboard Mesa

Perhaps the best-known and most photographed landmark in East Zion is the Checkerboard Mesa. This rock half-cone is characterized by horizontal and vertical cracks that give it that checkerboard appearance. There is a dedicated pullout and viewpoint for the best photos of this geological oddity.

42

Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Driving all the way across the park, between the East and South Entrances, follows Highway 9. Short switchbacks help the road quickly climb 1000 feet of vertical rise. At the top of those switchbacks, road engineers had nowhere else to go, and so the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel was created for through traffic. The tunnel is unusual in that it is only one lane wide, so it can only accommodate larger vehicles, like large RVs, in one direction at a time. Park Rangers have a system to get traffic through the tunnel - but you may need to exercise patience for this interesting part of the drive.

43

Springdale

Most visitors to Zion will use the town of Springdale as their base for visiting the park. The town is located adjacent to the south entrance. Springdale is a full-service town with an excellent collection of hotels and accommodations, restaurants and cafes. Shoppers will enjoy the exploring the many galleries. If you are planning the wade in The Narrows, there are outfitters in town that will set you up with all the necessary gear - which is usually best to rent.

44

The Narrows

At the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, we come to an area where we can enjoy the riverside walk, completely surrounded by Zion's magnificent vertical red rock cliffs. It's also called the Temple of Sinawava. Once we reach the end of the Riverside Walk - that's where the fun really starts. This is where The Narrows begins. There's no reason to stop walking just because you've reached the Virgin River, from here the river itself become the trail. Hikers use the river to continue following the canyon, as the walls close in and become even more imposing. The water tends to be chilly, so to do the Narrows, you wear wading gear, canyoneering shoes for better grip as you walk through the river, and a drysack to keep your valuables safe. And a sturdy walking pole is not just to complete the look, but helps stabilize you as you wade. Most average hikers will go 3-4 miles before turning back. Most of the time the water is only ankle deep, but it can get waist deep in some places.

45

Weeping Rock Trail

This is a great stop along the Zion Scenic Drive Road. Just a short 1/4 mile uphill walk gets you to a lovely hanging garden and this is another location where you will be on the "inside" of a fine waterfall. Its definitely worth the 30 minutes or so that it takes to enjoy the experience. There are 2 other popular hikes that require much more effort that depart from this location. Hidden Canyon is a 5-mile round trip to a hidden canyon - no surprise. The hike is quite exposed and iron chains are provided to help you stay on the trail in places. The toughest day hike in the Park also leaves from here, the 8-mile Observation Point hike climbs to the top of the mesa - rising 2150 vertical feet. Its a good workout!

46

Red Canyon

Highway 12 joins Bryce Canyon National Park to Highway 89, which is the main route to connect Zion and Bryce. On 12, we will pass the Red Canyon. You have the choice to join some interesting hikes here, but for most road trippers, the highlight is to stop and take photos of two short tunnels that have been carved through rock fins that allow the highway to pass through.

47

Grotto Trail

The Grotto Trail is an easy flat walk that many people enjoy as a way to stretch their legs and access the Zion Lodge. But this location is far more famous as the starting point for the challenging Angel's Landing hike. That hike is only recommended for experienced and prepared hikers who are comfortable with heights. The most challenging section - mentally, is the crossing of a narrow ledge, 1,500 feet above the valley floor. The hike overall is 5-miles and requires significant elevation gain. It is so popular, that the trail can be downright crowded at times.

48

Sunrise Point

This is the viewpoint for the Amphitheater that is closest to the entrance for Bryce Canyon. Once again, we get to enjoy close up views of precariously balanced spires and formations that look ready to give up and collapse. Those who want to hike into the Amphitheater will join the the Queens Garden Trail. This hike can be done as an out-and-back trail for 1.8 miles, or can be combined with the Navajo Loop trail to finish at Sunset Point. There are countless amazing formations that you will enjoy on the hike, and you will want to stop for photos at some of the fairy-like doorways that take you right through some formations. The trail gets its name from a particular hoodoo that looks like Queen Victoria - that's no exaggeration!

49

Zion National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

50

Bryce Canyon National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

51

Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point is 3 different views combined into one. There are 3 tiers or platforms, each one climbing higher and opening new vistas down into what is called the Silent City. From this location, it's especially easy to clearly see the different colors of the bands or stratas in the hoodoos - ranging from white to pink to rust colored.

52

Sunset Point

At Sunset Point, we are getting quite close to the hoodoos and can see details of the formation and erosion patterns. Individual formations have names like Thor's Hammer. Sunset Point is the trailhead for one of the favorite hikes into the Amphitheater - the Navajo Loop Trail. The hike descends down below the rim and hikes can walk through formations like Wall Street and Two Bridges. The loop is 1.3 miles, but the trail is steep in places.

53

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The greatest star of the Bryce Canyon National Park is of course the Amphitheater where visitors enjoy superb views of the hoodoo formations. Past the Amphitheater is the 18-mile Scenic Drive, which continues all the way to Rainbow Point, the highest and southernmost location in the park. Along the drive there are at least 8 different pullouts and viewpoints that each share a different feature of the Park. You can choose to stop at some or all of them. Our favorites are Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge and Farview Point.

54

Bryce Point

It's a subjective choice, but in our opinion this is the best place to take in your first views of the hoodoos, as it is located the furtherest away and provides the widest and grand views that captures the enormity of the Amphitheater. This is the southern end point of the Rim Trail. If you want to walk the rim which will provide you with every view, you can park and start here, and then later catch the free shuttle to get back to your vehicle.

55

Emerald Pools

Located on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Emerald Pools is a favourite hike that is not too strenuous, but walkers need to be capable of hiking roughly 60-90 minutes on an unpaved trail. The first major highlight of the hike is the Lower Emerald Pool. What is so enjoyable here is that we actually walk behind the spray of the waterfalls in a cave-like overhang. The mist is refreshing and cooling. Though subject to trail conditions, and the trail has been recently damaged and repaired, hikers can choose to continue on to the Middle and Upper Pools. The continuation of the hike is more strenuous than accessing the Lower Pool, so you can decide whether to continue or turn around. The trailhead is opposite Zion National Park Lodge, and that is the stop to use if the mandatory shuttle is in effect.

56

Grafton Cemetary

A short and fun diversion on Highway 9 between La Verkin and Springdale at the western entrance to Zion National Park, is to take the short drive to the Grafton Ghost Town. You can explore some of the old abandoned buildings, and visit the cemetery if you don't find that too creepy. The tour will let you know where to turn off in the small town of Rockville, and then cross to the southside of the Virgin River for the 15 minute drive to the ghost town site.

57

Checkerboard Mesa

Perhaps the best-known and most photographed landmark in East Zion is the Checkerboard Mesa. This rock half-cone is characterized by horizontal and vertical cracks that give it that checkerboard appearance. There is a dedicated pullout and viewpoint for the best photos of this geological oddity.

58

Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Driving all the way across the park, between the East and South Entrances, follows Highway 9. Short switchbacks help the road quickly climb 1000 feet of vertical rise. At the top of those switchbacks, road engineers had nowhere else to go, and so the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel was created for through traffic. The tunnel is unusual in that it is only one lane wide, so it can only accommodate larger vehicles, like large RVs, in one direction at a time. Park Rangers have a system to get traffic through the tunnel - but you may need to exercise patience for this interesting part of the drive.

59

Springdale

Most visitors to Zion will use the town of Springdale as their base for visiting the park. The town is located adjacent to the south entrance. Springdale is a full-service town with an excellent collection of hotels and accommodations, restaurants and cafes. Shoppers will enjoy the exploring the many galleries. If you are planning the wade in The Narrows, there are outfitters in town that will set you up with all the necessary gear - which is usually best to rent.

60

The Narrows

At the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, we come to an area where we can enjoy the riverside walk, completely surrounded by Zion's magnificent vertical red rock cliffs. It's also called the Temple of Sinawava. Once we reach the end of the Riverside Walk - that's where the fun really starts. This is where The Narrows begins. There's no reason to stop walking just because you've reached the Virgin River, from here the river itself become the trail. Hikers use the river to continue following the canyon, as the walls close in and become even more imposing. The water tends to be chilly, so to do the Narrows, you wear wading gear, canyoneering shoes for better grip as you walk through the river, and a drysack to keep your valuables safe. And a sturdy walking pole is not just to complete the look, but helps stabilize you as you wade. Most average hikers will go 3-4 miles before turning back. Most of the time the water is only ankle deep, but it can get waist deep in some places.

61

Weeping Rock Trail

This is a great stop along the Zion Scenic Drive Road. Just a short 1/4 mile uphill walk gets you to a lovely hanging garden and this is another location where you will be on the "inside" of a fine waterfall. Its definitely worth the 30 minutes or so that it takes to enjoy the experience. There are 2 other popular hikes that require much more effort that depart from this location. Hidden Canyon is a 5-mile round trip to a hidden canyon - no surprise. The hike is quite exposed and iron chains are provided to help you stay on the trail in places. The toughest day hike in the Park also leaves from here, the 8-mile Observation Point hike climbs to the top of the mesa - rising 2150 vertical feet. Its a good workout!

62

Red Canyon

Highway 12 joins Bryce Canyon National Park to Highway 89, which is the main route to connect Zion and Bryce. On 12, we will pass the Red Canyon. You have the choice to join some interesting hikes here, but for most road trippers, the highlight is to stop and take photos of two short tunnels that have been carved through rock fins that allow the highway to pass through.

63

Grotto Trail

The Grotto Trail is an easy flat walk that many people enjoy as a way to stretch their legs and access the Zion Lodge. But this location is far more famous as the starting point for the challenging Angel's Landing hike. That hike is only recommended for experienced and prepared hikers who are comfortable with heights. The most challenging section - mentally, is the crossing of a narrow ledge, 1,500 feet above the valley floor. The hike overall is 5-miles and requires significant elevation gain. It is so popular, that the trail can be downright crowded at times.

64

Sunrise Point

This is the viewpoint for the Amphitheater that is closest to the entrance for Bryce Canyon. Once again, we get to enjoy close up views of precariously balanced spires and formations that look ready to give up and collapse. Those who want to hike into the Amphitheater will join the the Queens Garden Trail. This hike can be done as an out-and-back trail for 1.8 miles, or can be combined with the Navajo Loop trail to finish at Sunset Point. There are countless amazing formations that you will enjoy on the hike, and you will want to stop for photos at some of the fairy-like doorways that take you right through some formations. The trail gets its name from a particular hoodoo that looks like Queen Victoria - that's no exaggeration!

65

Zion National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

66

Bryce Canyon National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

67

Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point is 3 different views combined into one. There are 3 tiers or platforms, each one climbing higher and opening new vistas down into what is called the Silent City. From this location, it's especially easy to clearly see the different colors of the bands or stratas in the hoodoos - ranging from white to pink to rust colored.

68

Sunset Point

At Sunset Point, we are getting quite close to the hoodoos and can see details of the formation and erosion patterns. Individual formations have names like Thor's Hammer. Sunset Point is the trailhead for one of the favorite hikes into the Amphitheater - the Navajo Loop Trail. The hike descends down below the rim and hikes can walk through formations like Wall Street and Two Bridges. The loop is 1.3 miles, but the trail is steep in places.

69

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The greatest star of the Bryce Canyon National Park is of course the Amphitheater where visitors enjoy superb views of the hoodoo formations. Past the Amphitheater is the 18-mile Scenic Drive, which continues all the way to Rainbow Point, the highest and southernmost location in the park. Along the drive there are at least 8 different pullouts and viewpoints that each share a different feature of the Park. You can choose to stop at some or all of them. Our favorites are Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge and Farview Point.

70

Bryce Point

It's a subjective choice, but in our opinion this is the best place to take in your first views of the hoodoos, as it is located the furtherest away and provides the widest and grand views that captures the enormity of the Amphitheater. This is the southern end point of the Rim Trail. If you want to walk the rim which will provide you with every view, you can park and start here, and then later catch the free shuttle to get back to your vehicle.

71

Emerald Pools

Located on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Emerald Pools is a favourite hike that is not too strenuous, but walkers need to be capable of hiking roughly 60-90 minutes on an unpaved trail. The first major highlight of the hike is the Lower Emerald Pool. What is so enjoyable here is that we actually walk behind the spray of the waterfalls in a cave-like overhang. The mist is refreshing and cooling. Though subject to trail conditions, and the trail has been recently damaged and repaired, hikers can choose to continue on to the Middle and Upper Pools. The continuation of the hike is more strenuous than accessing the Lower Pool, so you can decide whether to continue or turn around. The trailhead is opposite Zion National Park Lodge, and that is the stop to use if the mandatory shuttle is in effect.

72

Grafton Cemetary

A short and fun diversion on Highway 9 between La Verkin and Springdale at the western entrance to Zion National Park, is to take the short drive to the Grafton Ghost Town. You can explore some of the old abandoned buildings, and visit the cemetery if you don't find that too creepy. The tour will let you know where to turn off in the small town of Rockville, and then cross to the southside of the Virgin River for the 15 minute drive to the ghost town site.

73

Checkerboard Mesa

Perhaps the best-known and most photographed landmark in East Zion is the Checkerboard Mesa. This rock half-cone is characterized by horizontal and vertical cracks that give it that checkerboard appearance. There is a dedicated pullout and viewpoint for the best photos of this geological oddity.

74

Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Driving all the way across the park, between the East and South Entrances, follows Highway 9. Short switchbacks help the road quickly climb 1000 feet of vertical rise. At the top of those switchbacks, road engineers had nowhere else to go, and so the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel was created for through traffic. The tunnel is unusual in that it is only one lane wide, so it can only accommodate larger vehicles, like large RVs, in one direction at a time. Park Rangers have a system to get traffic through the tunnel - but you may need to exercise patience for this interesting part of the drive.

75

Springdale

Most visitors to Zion will use the town of Springdale as their base for visiting the park. The town is located adjacent to the south entrance. Springdale is a full-service town with an excellent collection of hotels and accommodations, restaurants and cafes. Shoppers will enjoy the exploring the many galleries. If you are planning the wade in The Narrows, there are outfitters in town that will set you up with all the necessary gear - which is usually best to rent.

76

The Narrows

At the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, we come to an area where we can enjoy the riverside walk, completely surrounded by Zion's magnificent vertical red rock cliffs. It's also called the Temple of Sinawava. Once we reach the end of the Riverside Walk - that's where the fun really starts. This is where The Narrows begins. There's no reason to stop walking just because you've reached the Virgin River, from here the river itself become the trail. Hikers use the river to continue following the canyon, as the walls close in and become even more imposing. The water tends to be chilly, so to do the Narrows, you wear wading gear, canyoneering shoes for better grip as you walk through the river, and a drysack to keep your valuables safe. And a sturdy walking pole is not just to complete the look, but helps stabilize you as you wade. Most average hikers will go 3-4 miles before turning back. Most of the time the water is only ankle deep, but it can get waist deep in some places.

77

Weeping Rock Trail

This is a great stop along the Zion Scenic Drive Road. Just a short 1/4 mile uphill walk gets you to a lovely hanging garden and this is another location where you will be on the "inside" of a fine waterfall. Its definitely worth the 30 minutes or so that it takes to enjoy the experience. There are 2 other popular hikes that require much more effort that depart from this location. Hidden Canyon is a 5-mile round trip to a hidden canyon - no surprise. The hike is quite exposed and iron chains are provided to help you stay on the trail in places. The toughest day hike in the Park also leaves from here, the 8-mile Observation Point hike climbs to the top of the mesa - rising 2150 vertical feet. Its a good workout!

78

Red Canyon

Highway 12 joins Bryce Canyon National Park to Highway 89, which is the main route to connect Zion and Bryce. On 12, we will pass the Red Canyon. You have the choice to join some interesting hikes here, but for most road trippers, the highlight is to stop and take photos of two short tunnels that have been carved through rock fins that allow the highway to pass through.

79

Grotto Trail

The Grotto Trail is an easy flat walk that many people enjoy as a way to stretch their legs and access the Zion Lodge. But this location is far more famous as the starting point for the challenging Angel's Landing hike. That hike is only recommended for experienced and prepared hikers who are comfortable with heights. The most challenging section - mentally, is the crossing of a narrow ledge, 1,500 feet above the valley floor. The hike overall is 5-miles and requires significant elevation gain. It is so popular, that the trail can be downright crowded at times.

80

Sunrise Point

This is the viewpoint for the Amphitheater that is closest to the entrance for Bryce Canyon. Once again, we get to enjoy close up views of precariously balanced spires and formations that look ready to give up and collapse. Those who want to hike into the Amphitheater will join the the Queens Garden Trail. This hike can be done as an out-and-back trail for 1.8 miles, or can be combined with the Navajo Loop trail to finish at Sunset Point. There are countless amazing formations that you will enjoy on the hike, and you will want to stop for photos at some of the fairy-like doorways that take you right through some formations. The trail gets its name from a particular hoodoo that looks like Queen Victoria - that's no exaggeration!

Zion i Bryce Canyon: Wycieczka samochodowa z dźwiękiem

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