.png)
July 29, 2017
Luckily, we had coordinates to a few free campsites just outside of the park entrance, so we headed down a nearby forest road and found a nice spot to set up our tents. There was an RV near the beginning of the road, but the rest of the campsites were open to choose from. We set up quickly and then headed to the park to take in as much as we could with the few hours of daylight we had left.
Our stress quickly dissipated as we wandered into one of the most unique landscapes we had ever witnessed. Feelings of awe, excitement, and peaceful contemplation rushed into my being as we looked over the edges of viewing points to witness the Bryce Amphitheater and the layers of orange, history-embedded rock. There is so much more to the magic of Bryce that I will tell you about, someday, in another post.
The first hike we chose was one of the most popular hikes selected by visitors to the park -Navajo Trail.
Navajo Trail is a 1.3 mile loop trail starting at Sunset Point that takes you down into the amphitheater and through a narrow switchbacked slot between cliffs known as "Wall Street", passed towering Douglas fir, through South Hall, and back up another switchback, returning you to Sunset Point in about 1 to 2 hours [or longer if you're a photographer or scientist ;) like me].
Before our feet had even touched the sandy path of Navajo Trail our eyes were feasting on the vibrant orange hues in every direction.
We started off prepared for rain, as the rumbling and clouds warned us that we should tread with caution. I, being stubborn with the purchase of a new raincoat, borrowed Leo's Marmot PreCip at his request while he settled on wearing a flannel and cap. The thunder ceased within the first 10 minutes of our hike, and we quickly removed some layers to soak up the little bits of Utah sun trying to peak out of the clouds.
Soon into the hike, we were graced with an impressive view of Thor's Hammer, a solitary hoodoo that demands attention for its interesting shape.
We meandered a while at the beginning of the trail, taking in the 360° views, and letting the space speak to us.
It was a nice perspective to feel so small next to the massive rock formations and Douglas firs. We looked a bit like ants!
We descended down via the switchback, into the amphitheater and surrounded by still more towering red and orange rock.
At the bottom of the switchback, the trail wove gently through sparse, shadowed Douglas fir and low bushes holding their ground in the cracks of the rock. There are a few little caves on the left of the trail we explored. They are very shallow and make a nice little spot to sit and relax without feeling claustrophobic.
Leo wasn't the only one I witnessed investigating trees on the trail, there were also at least a dozen chipmunks we said hello to along the way! Chipmunks weren't the only wildlife we saw as we hiked, we also caught a glimpse of a few birds - including a gorgeous hummingbird who we caught enjoying some thistle.
After the descent, the trail leveled out into a nice leisurely walk through more rock formations, firs, and what appeared to be a dried riverbed.
Soon, after winding another bed, we found ourselves gradually climbing back towards steep rock formations and tight spaces.
As we ascended we came to one of the final sections of trail, and the only portion of trail that made me slightly nervous; a narrow path leading up stone steps, with massive rock at all sides - including above our heads.
The Verdict:
This was a perfect hike for first-time visitors to Bryce. There are incredible views of landmarks like Thor's Hammer and Silent City, fun switchbacks leading into and out of the amphitheater, and wildlife to watch soaring above you, and scampering on the ground around your feet. This is a moderate, family-friendly hike, with plenty to see, touch, and explore. There are plenty of educational opportunities about geology, wildlife, weather, and so much more. The hoodoos, trees, and bright, contrasting colors of orange rocks and blue sky offer endless inspiration for photographers, painters, writers, meditators, and the like.
If you're looking for something a little longer, throw in Queens Garden for a 2.9 mile hike lopping from Sunrise Point to Sunset Point.
Bonus: Because there is no tree cover, Google Maps offers an impressive look at the layout of the trail. Search for Navajo Trail, Bryce Canyon on Google Maps to get a sneak peek at this awesome hike before heading out on the trail.
Type: Loop
Elevation Gain: 521 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowd: Moderate to busy
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hungry for more about Bryce? Click here!
No comments:
Post a Comment