Salt Lake County is part of the Salt Lake City Metropolitan Statistical Area as well as the Salt Lake City–Ogden–Clearfield Combined Statistical Area.
Bryce Canyon National Park , which became a National Park in 1928, was named after a local rancher, Ebenezer Bryce. Framed by majestic pine trees, the “pink” cliffs of Bryce change hues as the sun changes position in the sky between sunrise and sunset, however, you won’t see these dramatic colors until you journey to the rim. Visitors may take a round trip encompassing thirty seven miles, including Sunrise, Sunset, Rainbow, Yovimpa and Inspiration Points.
Spires and Table Cliffs – some over 2,000 feet in height – tower above the tables and plateaus below. These are geological wonders which have developed over thousands of years through erosion by the Paria River and its myriad of tributaries. The result is spectacular and cannot adequately be described in mere words. A visit to this area is definitely a must, and if you are a photographer – beginner, amateur or professional – be sure to bring plenty of film for the once-in-a-lifetime photos you will want to take.
Bryce Canyon National Park is much higher than nearby Zion National Park, ranging from an average of 6,000 feet to over 9,000 feet at its highest point, the rim. Because of the way that Bryce was carved out, through various forms of erosion, many natural amphitheatres were created throughout the park, extending nearly twenty miles. The largest of these amphitheatres is Bryce Amphitheatre, which is 12 miles long, 3 miles wide and 800 feet deep.
Because of the rich history of the various Native American people that have inhabited the area over the centuries, there are many ancient artifacts that have been found. Petroglyphs left as a remnant of the people that lived in the area thousands of years ago, are still well preserved and tell part of the story of those peoples.
The park is also home to a diverse combination of wildlife. Utah prairie dogs, a protected species make their home in Bryce, and are joined by foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, mule deer, elk, antelope and black bears. A wide variety of birds – 160 species or more - including blue jays, ravens, eagles, swifts, swallows and owls live here as well. For those who enjoy animal life, the park is a sanctuary where people can explore the diverse types of animals close up or from a distance.
Accommodations in the area are plentiful and memorable. In addition to excellent accommodations to fit any vacation plan, there are plenty of activities available, such as mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, off roading and many opportunities for magnificent photographs whether you are a beginner or an expert. There are also various guided tours available, including star gazing (since there are very few lights) and moonlight walks during the full moon. There is a shuttle that travels through the park, and it is a great way to see the overall area.
Bryce Canyon National Park is located twenty four miles southeast of Panguitch, UT on Highway 63, east of the junction of U.S. Highway 89 & UT 12. The drive is scenic and beautiful; however, you can also opt to fly into the Bryce Canyon Airport.