Bryce is located in southwestern Utah, north of the Grand Canyon. It is the top step of the Grand Staircase, a sequence of sedimentary rock formations that were uplifted and tilted back. The process produced a series of cliffs called Vermilion, Chocolate, White, Gray, and Pink that rise from the Kaibab Plateau at the Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon. Which, by the way, is not actually a canyon but a huge amphitheater. The main attraction for visitors is the odd rock formations called hoodoos that are carved by the weather from relatively soft rock.
The process is ongoing and you can see all the various stages of hoodoo development. From the main cliff, rows of narrow walls or fins are eroded. Frost enlarges cracks in the fins to create windows that look like natural bridges but are not. Bridges are undercut by flowing water whereas windows are formed by the effects of freezing water as it expands in rock crevices. Eventually, the window grows so large that its top collapses leaving freestanding columns that are called hoodoos because of their strange shapes. As the process continues, the hoodoos also collapse but, meanwhile, many more are being formed.
But enough of this errant pedantry. Bryce can be appreciated by everyone regardless of their interest in geology. Or their fitness level for that matter. A hike below the rim is certainly desirable and rewarding but you can probably see most of what you want to see by stopping at the numerous pullouts along the 18-mile-long park road. The road dead ends at Rainbow Point where you may want to take the short loop trail out to see the bristlecone pines.
If you would like to take a walk in the park but are not inclined to descend into the canyon, consider the Rim Trail near the lodge. Views between Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point will reward the relatively minor effort required. Besides, there are numerous places to rest and contemplate the view before you.
A short walk on the Bristlecone Pine Loop Trail takes you to see a stand of trees said to be up to 1,800 years old.
For years, Shirley had a picture of this tree in her office as a reminder to hang in there when things got tough.
Where the deer and the antelope play....
You may be able to see everything you want from pullouts on the park road but there are benefits to taking a little walk down below the rim.
Wall Street is a narrow passage between sheer cliffs.
In a less enlightened age, this was called the Fat Lady Squeeze.
Queen Victoria. Yes, I can see that.
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