Pocketful of Treasures: Explore Bryce Canyon

As we were planning our trip to Utah for the Young Living Convention we just knew we had to go back to Bryce Canyon. We fell in love with this incredibly unique National Park 10 years ago when my husband and I spent 30 days camping cross country after he returned home from Iraq. Our very first impression was, "We just landed on another planet!"

We had heard that Bryce Canyon was no longer the hidden gem it was 10 years ago and that it was now quite popular. I was a little nervous about heading in with our 35 foot RV without reservations, and fears of unavailability mounted as we approached and saw signs everywhere urging you to park outside the park and take a shuttle in. Because we stayed right down the road at Red Canyon (http://www.pocketfuloftreasures.net/2016/08/don-miss-these-gems-outside-bryce-canyon.html) we arrived fairly early in the day (approximately 9am) and took our chances. Although the campground did fill up by the end of the day, there was still plenty of availability. The campsites are spacious and our little ones enjoyed plenty of little critters around to eat their veggies for them. (Please don't intentionally feed the animals)

Bryce Canyon certainly has plenty of trail systems for hikers, bicyclers, and equestrians. A shared-use path runs from Bryce Canyon City (outside the park), past the campground, on towards Sunrise and then Sunset Point, and continues all the way to Inspiration Point. Watch for deer, prairie dogs, and other wildlife on and near the path.

If you do not have a bicycle or are not up for the challenge (some steep, though not terribly difficult elevation climbs), there is a shuttle that also runs past these points. We really enjoyed biking the trail to Inspiration point, taking out time along the way to enjoy the many lookouts.

Also along the Shared-Use path you may enjoy resting or shopping at Bryce Canyon Lodge or the General Store. Bryce Canyon Lodge was not there the last time we visited, which shows how much this National Park has grown in 10 short years, but the accommodations appeared very nice for those that do not wish to camp. And for parents needing some bribery along the trail, the General Store had 5 cent taffy by the check out counter 👍

The last time my husband and I visited Bryce Canyon we hike the 8 mile Fairyland Loop. It was certainly a strenuous 8 mile trail with a 1,716 ft elevation change, but it offered some incredible views of tall hoodoos, China Wall, and Tower Bridge.

Because we have 5 children ages 7 and under, we opted for an easier trail this time. At approximately 3 miles and only 600 feet elevation change, the Queens/Navajo Combination Loop will take you past some picturesque formations, including the impressive Wall Street. I loved watching the look of wonder expressed on our children's faces.