Bryce Canyon isn’t actually a canyon—instead of being carved by a river, it’s a series of naturally occurring amphitheater-shaped formations. No rivers were to be found as I began my descent into the hoodoos. Their shape is a result of geologic layering: hard rock on top protects the softer rock underneath from the elements. After millions and millions of years, all that’s left are the hoodoos, each different than the next.
The Queen’s Garden loop is on the short list of the best hikes I’ve taken so far. It bent at strange angles, passed above and through hoodoo groves, and showed off the various bridges and arches in the amphitheater. Although the path was clearly marked, I felt pleasantly lost, wandering a subtly guided path and admiring the subtle color variance in the rock.
I considered staying another night, but remembered the truly depressing restaurants in Bryce and decided I would get to Torrey by nightfall. I treated myself to a pair of scenic drives along the way. The first was UT-12, which took me right past the Aquarius Plateau and above dozens of instances of geology writ large. I appreciate the Grand Staircase even more because I’ve seen it from so many perspectives (and thanks to a knowledgeable guide). My other sidebar was down Bull Trail Road, where I got a sneak peek at the waterfold (more on that tomorrow). I’ll have to return with a high-clearance car to access the more remote regions. The Corolla is a fragile thing, and my nerves on washboard roads are even more fragile.
I’m in Torrey for the night, with the sun drawing every last shred of color out of the red cliffs nearby. The skies now are among the clearest of my trip. The Milky Way is ethereal. Tomorrow I will have a civilized breakfast.
Your pictures and descriptions are exceptional, as usual. I think additional trails must have been added since Jeff and I visited Bryce. I don’t remember there being any other than the one we took on the canyon floor. Now we have a reason to go back! Glad you got a good look at the Milky Way. That’s why we keep coming back to this part of the country, for the dark and starry skies. Hope you enjoyed the breakfast you were looking forward to! Love, Grandma
First of all, I want to second everything Jo-Ellen just said in the comment above. Your pictures are as breath-taking as the scenery. Hope the vastness of it all is giving you room to meditate.
Secondly, I want to thank you for the geology lessons you’re giving me. Not that I understand things better now — I just have more INFORMATION to clutter up the attic in my skull.
Are you still in quest of the perfect burger?