Bryce Canyon National Park

Area: 56sq.mi/145sq.km.

Established: 1928

Season

The best time to visit it is from April to October. On account of its altitude (8,000-9,000ft/2,400-2,700m) the nights can be cool even in summer.

Situation and topography

The bizarre rock formations of Bryce Canyon National Park in south- western Utah were created at a relatively late period in geological history. The park lies on the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, which was formed by marine deposits around 60 million years ago. The forces of erosion began to operate on the scarped rim of the limestone tableland, creating huge semicircular amphitheaters, a fairytale landscape of intricately patterned rock formations in brilliant shades of color ranging from salmon-pink to red. Bryce Canyon is one of the most magnificent scenic spectacles in the North American West, whose magical and quickly changing play of color is seen at its finest at sunrise. There is evidence of occupation in this area by Anasazi Indians from AD. 700, and later by Paiute Indians. The latter gave the canyon the very appropriate name of the "red rocks which stand like men in the shell-shaped gorge". The first white settlers reached this area with the Mormons about 1870. The canyon is named after Ebenezer Bryce, who tried for some years to rear cattle here.

Fauna

Squirrels and jays (Steller's jay) are frequent visitors to picnic and campgrounds. Other animals which may be spotted are mule deer, foxes, coyotes, skunks, marmots and prairie dogs.

Scenic road

SR 63 runs south through the park, passing the Visitor Center, the two campgrounds and the lodges, to Rainbow Point (35mi/56km), with viewpoints offering wide and ever-changing prospects. From the viewpoints there are hiking trails of varying length and strenuousness leading down into the canyon.