Afisha Life | Каньйон Сіон і Брайс: автомобільна екскурсія

1

Національний парк Сіон

Оскільки аудіогіди відтворюють коментарі на основі вашого GPS-місцезнаходження, ви можете створити власний маршрут уздовж маршруту туру відповідно до ваших інтересів і розкладу. Або ви можете скористатися нашими планувальниками поїздок, щоб отримати пропозиції щодо південних, повних або багатоденних маршрутів. Нижче наведено деякі з багатьох основних моментів;

2

Національний парк Брайс-Каньйон

Оскільки аудіогіди відтворюють коментарі на основі вашого GPS-місцезнаходження, ви можете створити власний маршрут уздовж маршруту туру відповідно до ваших інтересів і розкладу. Або ви можете скористатися нашими планувальниками поїздок, щоб отримати пропозиції щодо південних, повних або багатоденних маршрутів. Нижче наведено деякі з багатьох основних моментів;

3

Точка натхнення

Inspiration Point — це 3 різні погляди, об’єднані в один. Є 3 яруси або платформи, кожна з яких піднімається вище та відкриває нові краєвиди до того, що називається Тихим містом. З цього місця особливо легко побачити різні кольори смуг або шарів худу - від білого до рожевого до кольору іржі.

4

Sunset Point

На Сансет-Пойнт ми наближаємось до худу і можемо побачити деталі утворення та моделі ерозії. Окремі формування мають такі назви, як Молот Тора. Сансет-Пойнт — це початок одного з улюблених походів до Амфітеатру — маршруту Навахо Луп. Похід спускається нижче краю, і походи можуть проходити через утворення, як-от Уолл-стріт і Два мости. Петля становить 1,3 милі, але стежка місцями крута.

5

Мальовнича дорога Брайс-Каньйон

Найбільшою зіркою національного парку Брайс-Каньйон є, звичайно, амфітеатр, де відвідувачі насолоджуються чудовими видами на утворення Худу. За амфітеатром пролягає 18-мильна мальовнича дорога, яка тягнеться до Рейнбоу-Пойнт, найвищого та найпівденнішого місця в парку. Уздовж дороги є принаймні 8 різних майданчиків і оглядових точок, кожна з яких має різні особливості парку. Ви можете зупинитися на деяких або всіх з них. Наші улюблені – Rainbow Point, Agua Canyon, Natural Bridge і Farview Point.

6

Брайс Пойнт

Це суб’єктивний вибір, але, на нашу думку, це найкраще місце, щоб побачити ваші перші види на худу, оскільки воно розташоване найдальше та забезпечує найширший і грандіозний вид, який передає величність амфітеатру. Це південна кінцева точка Краєвої стежки. Якщо ви хочете прогулятися вздовж узбіччя, з якого відкриваються всі краєвиди, ви можете припаркуватися й почати тут, а потім сісти на безкоштовний трансфер, щоб повернутися до свого автомобіля.

7

Смарагдові басейни

Смарагдові басейни, розташовані на мальовничій трасі Сіон-Каньйон, є улюбленим походом, який не надто виснажливий, але пішоходи повинні бути здатними пройти приблизно 60-90 хвилин грунтовою стежкою. Першим головним моментом походу є Нижній Смарагдовий басейн. Що так приємно тут, так це те, що ми фактично ходимо за бризками водоспадів у печерному навислі. Туман освіжає та охолоджує. Незважаючи на умови маршруту, а стежка нещодавно була пошкоджена та відремонтована, туристи можуть вибрати продовження до Середнього та Верхнього басейнів. Продовження походу є більш напруженим, ніж доступ до Нижнього басейну, тому ви можете вирішити, продовжувати чи повертати. Початок стежки знаходиться навпроти Zion National Park Lodge, і це зупинка, якщо діє обов’язковий маршрутний автобус.

8

Графтонське кладовище

Коротка та весела розвага на шосе 9 між Ла-Веркіним і Спрінгдейлом біля західного входу до національного парку Сіон — це коротка поїздка до міста-привида Графтон. Ви можете оглянути деякі старі покинуті будівлі та відвідати цвинтар, якщо вам це не надто моторошно. Під час екскурсії ви дізнаєтеся, куди звернути в невеликому містечку Роквілл, а потім переїхати на південний берег річки Вірджин за 15 хвилин їзди до місця міста-привида.

9

Шашка Меса

Мабуть, найвідомішою пам’яткою Східного Сіону, яку найбільше фотографують, є Checkerboard Mesa. Цей скельний напівконус характеризується горизонтальними і вертикальними тріщинами, які надають йому шахового вигляду. Для найкращих фотографій цієї геологічної дивацтва є спеціальний майданчик і оглядовий майданчик.

10

Сіон-гора Кармельський тунель

Проїжджаючи весь шлях через парк, між східним і південним входами, слідуйте шосе 9. Короткі повороти допомагають дорозі швидко піднятися на 1000 футів вертикального підйому. На вершині цих перемикачів дорожнім інженерам було нікуди подітися, тому тунель Сіон-Кармель був створений для наскрізного руху. Тунель незвичайний тим, що має лише одну смугу завширшки, тому він може вміщувати лише великі транспортні засоби, як-от великі фургони, в одному напрямку за раз. У паркових рейнджерів є система, яка забезпечує рух транспорту через тунель, але вам, можливо, доведеться проявити терпіння для цієї цікавої частини дороги.

11

Спрінгдейл

Більшість відвідувачів Сіону будуть використовувати місто Спрінгдейл як свою базу для відвідування парку. Місто розташоване біля південного входу. Спрінгдейл — це місто з повним набором послуг із чудовою колекцією готелів і місць проживання, ресторанів і кафе. Покупці отримають задоволення від огляду численних галерей. Якщо ви плануєте пробіжку в The Narrows, у місті є майстри, які нададуть вам усе необхідне спорядження, яке зазвичай найкраще взяти напрокат.

12

Вузки

Наприкінці мальовничої дороги Сійон Каньйон ми підходимо до місця, де можна насолодитися прогулянкою вздовж річки, повністю оточеної чудовими вертикальними червоними скелями Сіону. Його також називають храмом Синавави. Коли ми досягаємо кінця Ріверсайд-Волк, тут починається справжнє задоволення. Тут починається The Narrows. Немає причин припиняти ходьбу лише тому, що ви досягли річки Віргін, звідси сама річка стає стежкою. Піші туристи використовують річку, щоб продовжувати слідувати каньйоном, оскільки стіни наближаються та стають ще більш значними. Вода, як правило, прохолодна, тому, щоб подолати Норроуз, ви одягаєте спорядження для прогулянок, каньйонінгове взуття для кращого зчеплення під час прогулянки через річку та сухий мішок, щоб зберегти ваші цінні речі. А міцна пішохідна палиця не лише доповнює образ, але й допомагає стабілізувати вас під час переходу вбрід. Більшість середніх туристів пройдуть 3-4 милі, перш ніж повернути назад. У більшості випадків вода сягає лише по щиколотку, але в деяких місцях вона може досягати по пояс.

13

Стежка плачучої скелі

Це чудова зупинка на Zion Scenic Drive Road. Лише коротка 1/4 миля прогулянки в гору приведе вас до чудового висячого саду, і це ще одне місце, де ви опинитесь «всередині» прекрасного водоспаду. Це точно варте приблизно 30 хвилин, щоб насолодитися цим досвідом. Є ще 2 популярні походи, які вимагають набагато більше зусиль, які починаються з цього місця. Hidden Canyon — це 5-мильна подорож туди й назад до прихованого каньйону — не дивно. Похід досить відкритий, і місцями є залізні ланцюги, щоб допомогти вам залишатися на стежці. Найскладніший денний похід у парку також починається звідси, 8-мильний похід Обсервейшн Пойнт піднімається на вершину гори, піднімаючись на 2150 вертикальних футів. Гарне тренування!

14

Червоний каньйон

Шосе 12 з'єднує національний парк Брайс-Каньйон з шосе 89, яке є основним маршрутом, що з'єднує Сіон і Брайс. 12 ми пройдемо Червоний каньйон. У вас є вибір приєднатися до кількох цікавих походів тут, але для більшості подорожуючих головним моментом є зупинка та фотографування двох коротких тунелів, висічених у скелях, через які проходить шосе.

15

Стежка Грот

Стежка Грота – це легка рівнинна прогулянка, яка подобається багатьом людям як спосіб розім’яти ноги та дістатися до Zion Lodge. Але це місце набагато більше відоме як відправна точка для складного походу «Приземлення ангела». Цей похід рекомендований лише для досвідчених і підготовлених туристів, які спокійно ставляться до висоти. Найскладнішою ділянкою, розумово, є перетин вузького виступу на висоті 1500 футів над дном долини. Загальна протяжність походу складає 5 миль і вимагає значного набору висоти. Він настільки популярний, що часом на стежці може бути просто людно.

16

Sunrise Point

Це оглядовий майданчик для амфітеатру, який знаходиться найближче до входу в каньйон Брайс. Знову ми можемо насолоджуватися зблизька краєвидами ненадійно збалансованих шпилів і утворень, які, здається, готові здатися й завалитися. Ті, хто хоче піти в амфітеатр, приєднаються до стежки Queens Garden. Цей похід можна здійснити як стежку туди-назад довжиною 2,8 милі або поєднати її зі стежкою Навахо Луп, щоб завершити на Сансет-Пойнт. Є незліченна кількість дивовижних утворень, якими ви будете насолоджуватися під час походу, і ви захочете зупинитися, щоб сфотографуватися біля деяких казкових дверей, які ведуть вас прямо через деякі утворення. Стежка отримала свою назву від особливого худу, схожого на королеву Вікторію - це не перебільшення!

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!