Juneau Alaska is arguably the most beautifully-situated city in America.

Positioned along the scenic Gastineau Channel, it boasts some of Southeast Alaska’s best offerings at its fingertips.

Within Juneau’s reach, you’ll find a massive 1,500-square-mile ice field, craggy snowcapped mountains, abundant wildlife, evergreen forest, and sparkling blue glaciers.

Top Juneau Excursions

As one of the most popular cruise ports in Alaska, Juneau is chock full of excursion opportunities—from self-guided hikes, to bucket-list worthy helicopter adventures Head to the town’s cruise docks on a summer day, and you’ll find a number of tour operators ready to whisk you away on an adventure.

I’ve visited Juneau on numerous occasions as part of my flight attendant job. Each layover—roughly 30 hours in length—has given me a full day to tour Alaska’s capital and its surrounding wilderness.

Over time, I’ve experienced many of the top things to do in Juneau, though some activities remain on my future to-do list.

Downtown Juneau

Juneau’s downtown may be small, but its charming streets and scenic waterfront deserve more than just a passing glance.

Along the main streets of town, you find picturesque western-style buildings that house boutiques, souvenir shops, and tasty eateries.

The storefronts in Juneau’s historic district hearken to the city’s roots as a gold rush town.

Franklin and Seward are the two main streets in Juneau. The small downtown area is home to two historic churches: a Russian Orthodox church that dates back to 1895, and the Cathedral of the Nativity that was built in 1910.

Aside from the town’s well-preserved nucleus, you’ll want to head down to the docks and check out the waterfront. From there, you can walk along Egan Street—along the Juneau Seawalk—to a small city park that houses an impressive lifelike whale fountain.

Mount Roberts

Mount Roberts is one of Juneau’s most enduring landmarks.

Accessible by hiking or via cable car, it is the best place to enjoy aerial views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel.

The tramway remains a popular Juneau activity due to its convenience and proximity to the cruise docks. It whisks tourists up to the timberline of Mt Roberts, ascending 1750ft. At the top, you’ll find a restaurants and some gift shops.

If I’m being honest, I think the Mt Roberts tramway is a bit of a ripoff—especially considering the option to hike.

Sure, the view is lovely. But, unless you have physical limitations, loads of cash, or a strong aversion to hiking, I find it hard to justify spending $50 for a short two-minute ride to the viewpoint.

Luckily, you can still soak in the beauty of Mt Roberts without paying the hefty tram fee. The trail to the summit of Mt Roberts is roughly 7.5 miles roundtrip.

At its summit, you’ll find excellent views of the Gastineau Channel, downtown Juneau, and Douglas Island.

If you spend $20 or more in the gift shop, you’ll be able to ride the tram back down the mountain for free.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier lies just outside of the Juneau city limits. Its proximity is one of the city’s most appealing features.

Going to Juneau and not seeing the Mendenhall Glacier is like visiting Rome and skipping the Colosseum. Or bypassing the Egyptian Pyramids on a trip to Cairo. It is, quite simply, the top place to visit in Juneau and my #1 recommendation if you only have limited time to spend in Alaska’s capital.

The Mendenhall Glacier is the most famous of Juneau’s ice floes. It extends more than a dozen miles from the Juneau Icefield and cascades into Mendenhall Lake.

Like many glaciers around the world, the Mendenhall Glacier is quickly retreating. Within the next three decades, scientists predict that you’ll no longer be able to see the half-mile-long glacier face from the visitor center.

To reach the Mendenhall Glacier, you can either drive, join an organized tour, or take the public bus. The public bus stop is located about a mile from the visitor center.

If you choose to visit the attraction by organized excursion, you can join trekking tours that bring you to the edge of the ice, canoe tours that bring you to the glacier face, or excursions that include whale-watching.

The Juneau Ice Caves

No visit to Juneau is complete without a close-up look at the Mendenhall Glacier. So while seeing the sheet of ice from the visitor center is a Juneau highlight, up-close views of the ice caves will give you an entirely different perspective. The shimmering sapphire color is so intense, that it rivals the brilliant shades of blue that we had witnessed at Argentina’s famous Perito Moreno Glacier.

The Juneau Ice Caves show off the best of the Mendenhall Glacier’s iridescent blues. You can access them via the popular West Glacier Trail hike.

If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, you can join a tour of the ice caves that includes canoeing and viewing the glacier up-close.

The Mendenhall Glacier has receded almost two miles since 1958. The ice caves are, in part, a function of this glacial melting. They are continually morphing, receding, and reforming.

I hiked to the ice caves a few years ago.

If I were to visit them again, they would probably look entirely different.

Nugget Falls

Nugget Falls plunges 377 ft down a rugged mountainside near the Mendenhall Visitor Center. The cascade makes its descent in two tiers—99 feet and 278 feet respectively—before gushing into the frigid water of Mendenhall Lake.

It is a beautiful waterfall that deserves a closer glance, despite being overshadowed by Juneau’s nearby #1 attraction.

From the visitor center, you can see Nugget Falls to the right of the Mendenhall Glacier. The waterfall is located only 3/4 of a mile away from the glacier face.

The Nugget Falls Trail is less than a mile long. It begins at the visitor center and ends at the thundering cascade, skirting the edge of Mendenhall Lake.

Glacier Gardens

The Glacier Garden and Rainforest Adventure is a top Juneau attraction. It lies along the Glacier Highway, near the city’s airport.

Tours of the garden consist of a guided vehicle ride through the steep terrain of the Tongass National Forest. The tour passes by streams, rock gardens, and small clusters of upside-down trees. It includes a viewpoint that boasts some of the best panoramas of the Juneau Valley.

Throughout the gardens, you’ll find the park’s signature upside-down trees, known as “flower towers.” These creative flower pots have their tops buried in the ground, while their roots form a skyward basket that overflows with trailing flower arrangements.

The Glacier Gardens were the creative vision of Steve and Cindy Bowhay, who purchased the property for a stream rehabilitation project. After a devastating landslide took out large chunks of the hillside, the Bowhays transformed the area into a top Juneau tourist attraction.

The story goes something like this: Steve, a landscaper by trade, attempted to restore the stream that had been severely damaged on his property. To mitigate the damage and prevent further erosion, he created various settling ponds. During the rehabilitation work, Steve came across an inverted tree trunk with its top in the mud and roots in the air. The image inspired him to repurpose more than 20 dead trees and turn them into “flower towers.”

As with everything in Juneau, I found the $30 entrance fee to be quite steep.

Nonetheless, I’m happy to have visited.

Shrine of St Therese, Old Glacier Highway

The Shrine of St Therese is a picturesque stone chapel that lies situated on a small promontory north of Juneau. The Catholic church, commissioned by a Jesuit priest in the late 1930s, is a lovely place to visit if you have access to a car or bike.

I chose to reach the shrine by bike, since I was traveling solo and didn’t want to shell out so much money on a rental car. Rental cars in Juneau can be pricey, especially during peak summer months.

The bike ride from downtown Juneau to the shrine was approximately 45 miles roundtrip,  on undulating terrain.

Though somewhat strenuous, I found the ride to be a pleasant self-guided activity.

I probably wouldn’t recommend visiting the Shrine of St Therese if you’re traveling by cruise and only have one day in Juneau.

However, if you are sticking around for a few days, the shrine is worth a stop—not least because of its beautiful setting.

Taku Lodge with Wings Airways

Though there are tons of great things to do in Juneau, it is difficult to top a trip to the Taku Lodge.

Flightseeing tours of the Taku Glacier depart from the wharf in downtown Juneau. Operated by Wings Airways, the “flight and feast” tours last about three hours. They include a scenic float plane ride over the Juneau Icefield and a delicious salmon bake at the historic lodge.

The 35-minute scenic flight shows off the incredible scenery of the Inside Passage. You’ll have the opportunity to see glacier-carved mountains, rugged slopes, and shimmering sapphire snowmelt.

The tour flies over five glaciers: Norris, Taku, East Twin, West Twin, and Hole-in-the-Wall. The views of the surrounding mountains and Juneau Icefield are breathtaking.

Each passenger on board gets a window seat and a set of headphones that provides a recorded overview of the area.

After showcasing the five glaciers, the float plane stops in front of the historic Taku Lodge—a rustic lakeside retreat that dates back to 1923.

We lucked out with fantastic weather on the day of our Taku Glacier Tour. Following a memorable scenic flight, we had a bit of free time to walk along the waterfront, peruse the gift shop, and take in views of the glacier. Then, we sat down for a lovely salmon bake, while the staff gave us an animated presentation about the building’s 100 year history.

Staff at the lodge told us to be on the lookout for black bears (they apparently love to feast on the drippings from the salmon that is cooked outside), but we didn’t see any during our visit.

Whalewatching in Juneau

My Juneau whale-watching trip gave me an opportunity to see twelve humpback whales in their natural habitat. Outside of my trip to Antarctica and South Georgia Island, it was the best encounter I’ve ever had with marine mammals.

During my whale-watching excursion in Juneau, I watched the baleens frolic about—spyhopping, blowing spray, and slapping their tails. There were so many humpbacks splashing about in the water that I had difficulty tracking the action with my camera. At one point, while I was photographing three whales, I spotted a breaching humpback elsewhere, out of the corner of my eye. I didn’t get the photo, but stepped off the boat feeling incredibly lucky.

It remains the only time I’ve ever seen a breaching whale.

The waters around Juneau are full of cetaceans. Humpbacks, orcas and blue whales feed in the area during summer. The best time to see whales coincides with peak travel season in Juneau (May-September).

Tracy Arm Fjord

Though it isn’t nearly as accessible as the Mendenhall Glacier, reaching the stunning Tracy Arm Fjord is well worthwhile if you have the time. Named after the Secretary of the Navy Benjamin Franklin Tracy, the fjord is a Juneau itinerary highlight.

Tracy Arm lies 45 miles south of Alaska’s capital and is only accessible by boat.

The tour of Tracy Arm Fjord shows off the best of Juneau’s scenery over the course of a day. The boat tour takes approximately seven hours from start to finish. It begins in the Gastineau Channel, before cruising down Tracy Arm’s turquoise waters.

On our boat trip, we admired the milky water and photographed bergy bits as we floated past. We kept our eyes peeled for wildlife—spotting seals on ice floes and mountain goats in the cliffs above the channel.

The twin Sawyer Glaciers (North Sawyer and South Sawyer) are located at the end of Tracy Arm.

Tours of the Tracy Arm Fjord leave twice a week and cost roughly $200.

Admiralty Island

The native Tlingit people call Admiralty Island ‘Kootznoowoo,’ meaning ‘Fortress of the Bears.’ The island is home to an estimated 1,500 brown bears—more than the combined total of those who inhabit the Lower 48. Most bear-viewing tours of Admiralty Island take visitors to the Pack Creek Viewing Area.

I haven’t taken the trip out to Admiralty Island yet, but a grizzly tour of the area is at the top of my Juneau bucket list. The day tour is expensive though, and will set you back nearly $1,000.

Dog Sledding on a Glacier

Dog sledding is another popular Juneau activity that I have yet to do. As with trips to Admiralty Island, Juneau’s glacier dog sledding tours are expensive.

The tours offer a multi-dimensional experience of Alaska’s wilderness—by air in a helicopter, and then zooming across the ice. Tours begin with a scenic helicopter ride above the Juneau ice field. Once at the glacier camp, you’ll traverse the remote and wild Alaskan tundra, pulled by group of huskies.

Juneau dog sledding tours promise an only-in-Alaska adventure.

One that I would love to experience at some point.

Where to Stay in Juneau

Though it is one of the major cities in Alaska, Juneau has a limited number of accommodation offerings. Many of the town’s tourists come by cruise ship, so its hotel-to-tourist-ratio is quite low. The Four Points by Sheraton and Silverbow Inn are Juneau’s most luxurious offerings, while the Aspen Suites and Juneau Hotel offer rooms at a (slightly) lower price point.

If you’re traveling to Juneau on a budget, the Juneau International Hostel offers a place to stay without breaking the bank. I stayed at the hostel on my first leisure trip to Juneau with Dan and was grateful for a cheap place rest my head, though the low rates came with a pretty large caveat. At the time of my visit, guests were required to sign up for chores and had a 10pm curfew.

Wildlife in Juneau

Wildlife thrives in and around Juneau. The area’s abundance of water, mountains, glaciers, and forest creates a rich habitat for bears, mountain goats, whales, and birds. In its forests—and even occasionally in town—you’ll find a large population of black bears. On numerous occasions, I’ve seen black bears in the fields between the airport and downtown. There are a few brown bears in the Juneau area too, but they tend to stay farther away from the population centers.

The water around Juneau teems with sea life. Humpbacks and orcas inhabit the marine-rich waters between the months of April and September, alongside a healthy population of seals . While animal-viewing tours can never guarantee sightings, your chances of seeing humpbacks on a summer whale-watching tour are virtually 100%.

Juneau Cruises

Juneau tourism depends heavily on cruise ships. The population of town—33,000 on a normal day—absolutely balloons when ships enter the harbor. This population explosion is especially evident in the evenings, when cruise tourists return to their ships and the jam-packed streets of town empty out.

Most of the major cruise lines vie for a market share in Juneau and Southeast Alaska. At any given time, the town’s docks will harbor boats from large companies like Carnival and Princess, as well as smaller expedition-style lines like Uncruise and Linblad.

Most tourists tend to book Juneau shore excursions with their cruise company, but you’ll have tons of options to book elsewhere as well (often for a reduced rate).
Outside of the cruise docks near the Mt Roberts tramway, dozens of kiosks sell same-day tours to Juneau’s top attractions.

When to Visit Juneau

Tourism season in Juneau is mostly limited to summer months. In summer—when daylight can last up to 18 hours—high temperatures tend to hover around 60 degrees.

Juneau is perpetually wet. Even in summer, you can expect rainfall about 50% of the time.

Juneau’s tourist season effectively shuts down in winter and most tours and excursions remain inaccessible outside of the May-September window.

If you’re looking to travel to Alaska in winter to see the northern lights, you might want to look toward Fairbanks instead. Juneau’s notoriously overcast skies and southerly position make aurora-viewing difficult.

Getting to Juneau

There are no roads connecting Juneau to the rest of Alaska. To reach the state capital, you’ll either have to fly or travel by boat along the Alaska Marine Highway that stretches from Bellingham to the Aleutians.

Sailing to Juneau from Bellingham Washington along the Alaska Marine Highway takes three days.

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In the 1880s, prospectors descended upon Juneau in search of gold.

Today, you can still go panning for gold, but the town has become a gateway to something even better: Some of the most untouched and pristine wilderness in the world.

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Antelope Canyon is the most famous slot canyon in the world. Located in the Navajo Nation near Page Arizona, the narrow sandstone wonderland has captured the imaginations of nature-lovers and photographers worldwide.

Wind and water have sculpted the area’s sandstone into an unearthly masterpiece of movement and light. Sensuous curves define Antelope Canyon’s glowing walls, creating a textured canvas of fiery hues.

It’s a spectacular place that has graced travel brochures and Instagram feeds in recent years.

Arizona’s Antelope Canyon

Arizona’s Antelope Canyon is split into two parts: Upper and Lower.

When people refer to Antelope Canyon, they are usually referring to its above-ground portion, Upper Antelope Canyon. With its light beams and high canyon walls, the upper portion receives a bulk of the area’s tourists. Some consider it to be the more photogenic of the two (though most of my favorite pictures are actually from the lower canyon).

While the two sections of Antelope Canyon differ slightly, each offers comparable experiences that will leave you awestruck.

Both the upper and lower canyon are incredibly beautiful. Both are packed to the brim with tourists. And both will fill your camera roll with brochure-worthy photos.

What is a Slot Canyon?

Just as the nearby Grand Canyon is the pinnacle of canyons worldwide, so too is Antelope Canyon the apex of slot canyons.

But what is a slot canyon?

Slot canyons are long and narrow chasms that slice through soft layers of sedimentary rock. Named for their paper-thin widths, these narrow gorges are often just wide enough to walk through single-file.

The United States contains the highest concentration of slot canyons in the world. In the red rock desert of southern Utah and northern Arizona, there are over 1,000 of them.

Prior to visiting Antelope Canyon, we’d explored a smaller slot canyon in the Canyonlands Needles District and peered into the entrance of another along the Burr Trail Road in Utah.

Yet nothing prepared us for the sheer beauty of Arizona’s world-renowned slot canyon.

Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon is often the default when choosing which part of the slot canyon to visit. Shaped like an upside-down “V,” it is narrow up top and wide at its base.

Upper Antelope Canyon is usually more crowded than its lower counterpart and tours are more likely to sell out in advance. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is the canyon most often shown in photos. It is also the one that features shining beams of light.

The ability to see light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon depends on the timing of your visit.

Despite visiting at midday, we visited the canyon too early in the year to see the light shaft.

But the experience was still nothing short of magical.

• Upper Canyon Tours

Antelope Canyon is not a place you can travel to independently. All areas of the canyon are only accessible via guided tour.

Tours of Upper Antelope Canyon last 1.5 hours. They include a 15 minute Jeep ride to and from the canyon entrance, plus an hour-long guided tour.

We visited the canyon with Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours. Tickets cost us $100 each, inclusive of the tour and Navajo fee. Young kids and infants do not receive a discount, so we took turns visiting the canyon while the other watched Elio.

Other tour operators for Upper Antelope Canyon include Tsebighanilini Tours, Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours, Antelope Slot Canyon Tours, and Antelope Canyon Tours Inc.

While tour prices might vary slightly from company to company, the experience seems to be quite similar between service providers.

Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon is slightly less popular than its upper counterpart, but its twists and turns are no less impressive. Shaped like a rightside-up “V,” it is narrow at the bottom and wider at the top. The lower canyon lies below ground, so you’ll have to descend into its red-rock chasm using steep metal stairs.

In general, the lower canyon didn’t really feel more treacherous than Upper Antelope Canyon. You’re still required to visit by tour, where you’ll be corralled—shoulder to shoulder and ever so slowly—through the narrow canyon.

Once you reach the bottom of the stairs, the path is mostly flat and sandy.

Still, if you are mobility impaired or unsteady on your feet, I’d probably suggest visiting the upper canyon instead.

• Lower Canyon Tours

Lower Antelope Canyon has only two tour operators—Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours and Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours. They are brother/sister companies (literally owned by a brother and a sister).

Despite lack of competition between tour operators, Lower Antelope tours cost roughly half of what the upper canyon tours cost. Children can enter at discounted fees, while infants 0-3 years old do not have to pay.

Antelope Canyon tours do not require a Jeep ride to and from the tour offices to the canyon entrance.

Instead, you’ll walk down a small pathway to the start of the trail.

Upper Vs Lower Antelope Canyon

The upper and lower sections of Antelope Canyon in Arizona are both extraordinary. So which one should you choose if you’re short on time or don’t feel like shelling out more than $200 per person for both?

The answer isn’t exactly cut and dry. Varying factors can influence your decision one way or another.

If you’re on a budget or traveling with young kids under two, I recommend Lower Antelope Canyon. But if you struggle with uneven surfaces or want to photograph the light beams, I recommend Upper Antelope Canyon.

At the end of the day, both sections are spectacular. Both will give you plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops. And both will likely remain etched in your memories long after your visit.

Where to Stay in Page Arizona

Page Arizona is the gateway to Antelope Canyon. Located just south of the Utah-Arizona border near Lake Powell, the small town sits smack dab in the middle of red rock country.

Accommodations in Page range from cozy rental homes to international chain hotels. Canyon Colors Bed and Breakfast is a solid choice if you’re looking for a house to rent in Page. It offers clean spacious rooms, a central location, an affordable price point, and superb reviews.

For internationally-recognized name brand hotels, you’ll find the Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, as well as the Hyatt Place.

When to Visit Antelope Canyon

Though Antelope Canyon in Arizona is a memorable destination no matter the time of year or day, a bit of advanced planning will ensure that you are able to maximize your visit.

Due to the position of the sun, there are certain times of year in which the canyon’s lighting is particularly special.

Similarly, the time of day you choose to visit can affect the light that enters the slot canyon.

• Best Time of Year

Summer can be unbearably hot in the desert of America’s Southwest, but it is an optimal time to visit Antelope Canyon. If you want to see the famed beams of light in the canyon’s upper section, you should plan on traveling to the area between April and October. May and early June offer a bit of relief from the scorching summer heat, while affording some of the best lighting.

When we visited Antelope Canyon during mid-March, we were too early in the year for the light shaft.

Another thing to keep in mind is that Arizona’s monsoon season lasts from June to September. Monsoon season can bring heavy rain that increases the risk of flash flooding. Your tour company will keep an eye out on weather forecasts and close the canyon if inclement weather is anticipated.

• Best Time of Day

The best time of day to visit Arizona’s Antelope Canyon is around noon, when the sun shines directly overhead. Planning your visit between 11 am and 1:30 pm—when the sunlight is perpendicular to the canyon—will give you the best chance of seeing the famed Upper Antelope Canyon light beam for yourself.

If it’s too cloudy or not sunny enough, the sun’s rays won’t poke through the canyon.

Tours during peak time of day are often more expensive than morning tours.

Beyond Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon may be the reason most people travel to Page Arizona, but it is by no means the only place to visit in the area.

Just a stone’s throw away from the canyon, you’ll find Horseshoe Bend—a spectacular U-shaped portion of the Colorado River. Often confused with Deadhorse Point State Park (a similarly impressive state park in Utah near Island in the Sky), Horseshoe Bend has become a distinct symbol of Arizona’s red rock country.

Other noteworthy places to visit in and around Page include Lake Powell, the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, and the southern reaches of Grand Staircase Escalante in Utah.

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Antelope Canyon is an otherworldly destination. Its folds and textures bounce the sunlight in a game of hide-and-seek, like a rippling velvet curtain.

The Arizona slot canyon deserves every bit of the attention it receives. Though there are more than 1,000 similar slot canyons in the United States, none eclipse Antelope Canyon in their beauty.

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Few places on the planet inspire more awe than Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park.

The cavernous river gorge—277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and 5,000 ft deep—slices through the vast Colorado Plateau in dramatic fashion.

The Grand Canyon is the gold standard of canyons around the world. Close to 5 million annual visitors descend on the sparsely-populated corner of Northern Arizona to peer down into its abyss. It is one of nature’s crowning achievements, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and an unmissable North American travel destination.

South Rim of the Grand Canyon

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the national park’s most accessible section. It contains a bulk of the park’s tourism amenities and showcases its most awe-inspiring viewpoints. The South Rim is located more than three hours away from the North Rim by car.

The Grand Canyon’s South Rim contains dozens of overlooks to choose from, all located along the 32 miles of road from Hermit’s Rest to the Desert Watchtower.

These viewpoints lie along three main touring routes: the Red Line to Hermit’s Rest, the Orange line that connects Yavapai Point with Yaki Point, and the self-drive road to the Desert Watchtower.

The park’s Blue Line connects various destinations within the Grand Canyon Village, but it does not contain any of the South Rim’s most noteworthy panoramas.

South Rim Viewpoints: The Red Line

The Grand Canyon’s red line links nine spectacular scenic vistas. The route showcases panorama’s of the park’s western reaches and ends at the historic Hermit’s Rest.

Shuttle service along the Red Line runs from early March through late November. From December 1 to February 28, the road is open to private vehicle traffic.

You can access the Red Line  from the Village Route Transfer stop on the Blue Line.

• Trail Overlook

 Trail Overlook, the first stop along the Red Line, provides the best aerial views of the Bright Angel Trail’s sinuous switchbacks.

At the overlook, you can see everything—from where the trial starts just west of the historic village, to where it finally disappears into the depths of the inner gorge 3,000 ft below.

During our visit, we saw a few people attempting the Bright Angel Trail, but ice and snow obstructed much of the pathway.

• Maricopa Point

At Maricopa Point, a narrow promontory juts out into the canyon, affording 180 degree views of the sprawling abyss. If you look closely, you might be able to see a tiny slice of the Colorado River, though you’ll get better views of the waterway at other spots along Hermit’s Road.

West of Maricopa Point you’ll find ruins of the former Orphan Lode Mine, which operated from 1891 to 1967.

• Powell Point

Powell Point lies right next to Hopi Point, along the Hermit’s Rest bus route. As with the other stops along the route, it offers spectacular views of the Grand Canyon.

A large stone monument near the bus stop commemorates the 1869 Powell Expedition. Powell was the first known European explorer to map the river’s course by boat. He traveled along the Green and Colorado rivers, charting much of the American Southwest.

• Hopi Point

Hopi Viewpoint is a breathtaking stop along Hermit Road. An ideal location for sunrise or sunset, Hopi Point also offers views of the Colorado River below.

Hopi Point lies a stone’s throw away from Powell Point. It is only served by shuttles in the westbound direction.

• The Abyss

The Abyss offers a steep vertical view into the Monument Creek drainage area. Its sheer vertical drop is the longest and most precipitous along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

As you peer 3,000 ft into the depths of the canyon, you’ll be rewarded with views of Monument Creek, the Tonto Plateau, and the Colorado River.

• Pima Point

Pima Point is the westernmost viewpoint along the Grand Canyon’s Rim Drive (though the road ends at Hermit’s Rest, 1.5 miles beyond).

From Pima Point, uninterrupted vistas showcase 40 miles of chiseled rock—From the Great Scenic Divide to Bright Angel Canyon.

Pima point is one of the only places from which you can hear the thunderous roar of the Colorado River, conditions permitting.

Unfortunately, on the rainy and windy day that we visited, we didn’t get so lucky.

• Hermit’s Rest

Hermits Rest is the final stop along the Red Line. A historic rest stop, it is a popular place to recharge during a day of exploration.

While the views at Hermit’s Rest aren’t particularly noteworthy, the area serves as the gateway to magnificent backcountry hiking trails.

The historic stone structure at Hermit’s Rest, designed by architect Mary Colter, dates back to 1914. With its stonework, giant alcove fireplace, and front porch, it was built to resemble an old miner’s cabin.

Today, Hermit’s Rest offers a gift shop, a snack bar, and somewhat obstructed west end views of the Grand Canyon.

South Rim Stops: The Blue Line

The Grand Canyon National Park’s Blue Line connects the visitor center with the South Rim’s lodges, restaurants, and shopping areas.

Its end points are also the transfer stations for the Red Line and Orange Line (Hermit’s Rest Route Transfer for the former, Grand Canyon Visitor Center for the latter).

Though you likely won’t utilize the Blue Line for the South Rim’s best panoramas, the line is a logistical necessity for getting around the Grand Canyon—especially in the summer months when the park restricts private vehicles.

• Grand Canyon Village

Grand Canyon Village is the hub of lodging inside the national park.

It is the largest example of town planning in the US national park system. At the village, you’ll find restaurants, shops, hotels, and connecting buses that will whisk you away to various viewpoints.

• Hopi House

The historic Hopi House, located right on the rim of Grand Canyon, is among the most noteworthy structures in the park. The building, designed by Mary Colter, dates back to 1905. Its large, multi-story stone structure was modeled after the 1,000 year old pueblo in Old Oraibi, Arizona.

Originally designed as the main sales rooms for Fred Harvey Indian Arts, the building continues to house a gift shop filled with native handicrafts.

South Rim Viewpoints: The Orange Line

The Orange Route, also known as the Kaibab Rim Route, travels in a figure-8 loop between the Yavapai Geology Museum and Yaki Point. The route is about 50 minutes long and encompasses some of the canyon’s most jaw-dropping vistas.

While the bus drops tourists off at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center in both directions, the majority of its eastbound and westbound stops differ.

I recommend you map out your Orange Line itinerary before your visit, in order to maximize your time in the area.

Highlights of the Kaibab Rim include Mather Point, the Yavapai Museum, and Yaki Point.

• Mather Point

For many, Mather Point offers the first glimpse of the Grand Canyon. And what a glimpse it is.

Mather Point lies about five minutes away on foot from the park’s visitor center. It was the first viewpoint that we visited, and the one that remains most impressed in my memory.

Thanks to its unobstructed views and ideal location, it is a favorite place to watch sunrises and sunsets.

• Yavapai Point

Yavapai Point is the northernmost stop along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It boasts breathtaking sightlines of the area’s chiseled red rock.

The viewpoint is home the Yavapai Museum of Geology. The museum offers interactive exhibits, a small gift shop, and a canyon-viewing area.

If you don’t feel like waiting for the shuttle, you can reach Yavapai Point via the Rim Trail from Mather Point.

• Yaki Point

Yaki Point lies at the end of the Orange Line.

From its viewing area, you can look down at the South Kaibab Trail as it weaves its way to the Colorado River. It also boasts some of the park’s best eastward views.

Yaki Point is the only stop along Desert View Drive that is closed to private vehicles. The scenic overlook can be reached using the park’s Orange Route.

Desert View Drive

Desert View Drive is open to vehicle traffic year-round and cannot be accessed using the national park’s tourist shuttle.

A lot of people skip this part of the park, which is a shame. Its lookouts are every bit as magical as those along the red and orange lines.

• East Drive Viewpoints

Desert View Drive highlights awe-inspiring panoramas of the Grand Canyon’s eastern reaches. While it is slightly less trafficked than other areas of the park, it is every bit as dramatic.

Popular points of interest along Desert View Drive include Grandview Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, and Desert View.

Though we managed to make a quit pitstop at all the overlooks, this self-drive part of our itinerary was a bit rushed due to Elio’s nap schedule.

• Desert View Watchtower

Desert View is the easternmost point along the developed portion of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

Aside from its spectacular vistas, the site is noteworthy for its 1932 lookout tower designed by Mary Colter. The tower, modeled after an Ancestral Puebloan structure, stands guard over the canyon.

Access to the top of the tower is free of charge. It is open daily from 9am-5pm.

Getting Around the Grand Canyon South Rim

During winter months, you can bring your own vehicle to the park’s main viewpoints and places of interest.

However, during peak tourist season, you’ll have to rely on the national park’s efficient tourist shuttle.

Free Shuttle buses operate in and around the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. They link most of the major tourist areas, excluding Desert View Drive.

The South Rim buses provide transportation between the visitor center, lodges, campgrounds and viewpoints.

Alternatively, you can get around the Grand Canyon by bike or on foot. The 13 mile Rim Trail connects most places of interest along the South Rim.

Grand Canyon Tours

While I’m personally a big fan of DIY travel, I realize that not everyone wants to deal with logistics and planning. Luckily, there are hundreds of Grand Canyon tours that can help you make the most of your visit.

Even if you’re planning on taking the park shuttle around, tours can provide a way of seeing the Grand Canyon from a different vantage point.

Scenic helicopter tours are a popular option for travelers who wish to take in the canyon’s awesomeness from the sky. There are also options for backroad safaris, rafting tours, and hiking tours.

Where to Stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim

You’ll find a combination of national park lodges, campgrounds, hotels and cabins both inside and outside the Grand Canyon National Park’s borders.

• Inside Grand Canyon National Park

If you’ve booked early enough to secure a spot and your budget allows for a bit of a splurge, there are a number of different lodging options along the South Rim. These include the Bright Angel Lodge and Cabins, Thunderbird Lodge, and Maswik Lodge.

The historic El Tovar Hotel is the most renowned place to stay within the national park’s boundaries. It is widely considered to be the crown jewel of national park lodges.

• Near the South Rim Entrance

Tusayan is the closest town to the national park entrance. It offers a combination of independent and international chain hotels. Due to Tusayan’s proximity to the park, the prices can be quite high for what you’re getting. We found better prices farther south, in the town of Valle.

During our visit, we stayed at the Grand Canyon Inn and Motel in Valle. And while it wasn’t anything particularly fancy, we found that the room suited our needs (and price point).

If you’re looking to stay in Tusayan for proximity’s sake, you may want to consider the Grand Hotel or the Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Entrance Fees

Entering Grand Canyon National Park costs $35 per vehicle or $20 per person (for those who travel on foot or by bike). Annual interagency passes are also accepted and can be obtained online or at the park’s entrance kiosks. The interagency passes a great value for travelers who plan on visiting multiple U.S. national parks within a calendar year.

Since we frequently visit federal lands, Dan and I always make sure we have an up-to-date interagency pass. The pass has always paid for itself.

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a year-round tourist attraction. Peak season encompasses summer months and school holidays. During these times, expect large crowds, traffic jams to enter the park, and hotels booked to capacity.

Spring and fall are great times to visit the park due to pleasant weather and thinner crowds.

Winter is the Grand Canyon’s off-season. Between November and March, low temperatures bring fewer visitors. When we visited in March, ice still covered many of the park’s trails—impeding our descent below the canyon’s rim.

If you’re looking to hike below the Grand Canyon’s rim, you should probably avoid the winter months.

Grand Canyon Sunrises and Sunsets

Mather Point is one of the most popular sunrise-viewing destinations within Grand Canyon National Park. The viewpoint’s proximity to the park entrance and visitor center is an added bonus.

Others have recommended Ooh Aah Point, Yavapai Point, and Yaki Point for sunrise.

However, since we were traveling with a toddler and staying outside of the park’s entrance gates, we don’t have first hand recommendations for sunrise-viewing.

Sunset over the Grand Canyon is magical, too.

As the sun sinks lower in the sky, it ignites the canyon walls in fiery shades of red and orange. Top sunset viewpoints on the South Rim are Mojave Point, Hopi Point, and Pima Point.

Other Ways to Experience the Grand Canyon

Going from viewpoint to viewpoint is the easiest way to visit the Grand Canyon, but it is by no means the only option. Adventure-lovers and thrill-seekers can experience the canyon in a plethora of different ways.

• Hiking

The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Grand Canyon. It starts on the canyon’s rim and ends 9.5 miles later at the Colorado River. Most people hike just a few miles below the rim before turning back. Popular stopping points are the 1.5 Mile resthouse, the 3 Mile resthouse, and the Indian Garden.

• Rafting

The Colorado River is one of the world’s top bucket list rafting destinations. Over the course of a week, rafting trips will take you through the canyon, along the Colorado River. Those who choose to raft the Grand Canyon say that it is a trip of a lifetime.

• Biking

Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on all paved and unpaved roads on the South Rim. You can rent wheels at Bright Angel Bicycles, adjacent to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

Beyond the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon lies in northern Arizona, amidst a red rock wonderland that includes some of the most stunning geological marvels in the world. Just two hours south of the Grand Canyon, you’ll find the red rock paradise of Sedona Arizona.

Two hours to the northeast, sits the small Page—gateway to Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons.

Beyond Page, you can easily incorporate the Grand Canyon into a larger road trip around the American Southwest. Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley are just a few hours away to the east. And the five incredible national parks in Utah (Bryce, Zion, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands) lie a few hours to the north.

****

The Grand Canyon isn’t the deepest canyon in the United States (that title belongs to Hells Canyon on the Oregon/Idaho border), but it is certainly the most famous.

Arizona’s cavernous river gorge is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Other famous canyons (the Fish River Canyon in Namibia, the Blyde River Canyon in South Africa, the Colca Canyon in Peru, for example) all use Arizona’s massive river gorge as their standard of comparison.

It’s truly a place that needs no introduction; one that is perhaps more renowned than any other geographic landmark in North America.

Whether you’re hiking to its depths, photographing its sunset hues, or peering over its cavernous abyss, the Grand Canyon in Arizona is sure to fill you with wonder.

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Oregon’s Highway 101 is among the most unforgettable road trip destinations in North America. As it hugs the Pacific coastline, the route showcases soaring cliffs, windswept beaches, and charming seaside towns.

But between Tillamook and Lincoln City, the famous coastal road winds inland, away from the water’s edge. In doing so, it bypasses some of the Oregon Coast’s most awe-inspiring scenery.

The Three Capes Scenic Loop seeks to include the northern coast’s compelling off-highway attractions. A popular side tour from the US 101, it leads visitors to spectacular panoramic viewpoints, a historic lighthouse, dramatic beaches, and rainforest-covered capes.

THREE CAPES SCENIC DRIVE ON THE OREGON COAST

The Three Capes Scenic Drive stretches from Tillamook to Pacific City. As its name suggests, the loop features a popular threesome of capes that boast breathtaking views.

The three capes—Meares, Lookout and Kiwanda—lie along a winding 40-mile alternative to the US 101.

THE TILLAMOOK AGRICULTURAL AREA

Tillamook marks the starting point of the Three Capes Scenic Road. Located inland and a stone’s throw from the beach, the town is the heart of Oregon’s coastal dairylands. Pastoral Tillamook County’s dairies range from locally-touted to world-renowned.

During our tour of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, Dan and I stopped by both the Tillamook and Blue Heron creameries.

• THE TILLAMOOK CHEESE FACTORY

The Tillamook Cheese Factory produces some of the most beloved cheddar cheese in the world. And its creamery, a popular tourist destination, has drawn fans since the mid-1900s.

In 2018, the creamery got a massive facelift that transformed it into a modern and airy museum-like attraction. The main level of the factory contains a gift shop, restaurant, and ice cream bar. Upstairs, placards and windows provide a (literal) glimpse into the cheese-making process.

Be prepared for summer weekend crowds at the ice cream stand. When we visited, the line for ice cream was so long that it made me completely lose my desire for the frozen treat.

Those who do not wish to battle the crowds can find a limited selection of Tillamook ice cream at the nearby Blue Heron Creamery.

• BLUE HERON CREAMERY

Blue Heron Creamery lies adjacent to the larger and more renowned Tillamook Factory. Its cheeses are fantastic and the creamery’s surroundings are well worth a small pit-stop. Its grounds contain a picturesque barn, vintage farm equipment, and a petting zoo.

A selection of wines, gourmet gift baskets and specialty cheeses can be found in the gift shop.

CAPE MEARES STATE SCENIC VIEWPOINT

Located about ten miles west of Tillamook at the north end of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, Cape Meares is the perfect place to explore the Oregon Coast’s spruce forests and dramatic vistas. From April through July, the steep cliffs and offshore rocks are nesting sites for thousands of seabirds—including common murres and Brandt’s cormorants.

The cape’s two top attractions include the Octopus Tree and a miniature lighthouse.

• CAPE MEARES LIGHTHOUSE

Cape Meares Lighthouse—the shortest beacon along the Oregon coast—stands a mere 38 ft high, atop a 200-ft bluff.

The lighthouse may be small, but it features an impressive kerosene-powered lens. First lit in 1890, its Fresnel lens was one of the most powerful and largest of its day. Mariners could spot the distinctive red-and-white flashes from more than 20 miles away.

A paved 0.2-mile path leads from the main parking area to the lighthouse.

• THE OCTOPUS TREE

From the parking area, a short 0.1 mile trail leads to the Octopus Tree—the Oregon Coast’s famous candelabra-shaped Sitka Spruce. The gargantuan tree is believed to be over 250 years old. Six branches grow upwards from the 50-foot wide trunk.

Some attribute the Sitka spruce’s shape to natural conditions such as extreme weather. Others, however, believe Native Americans trained the malleable branches to spread horizontally into a cage-like assortment of thick vertical trunks. Such ceremonial trees are common in the Pacific Northwest. Known as culturally modified trees, they are thought to have once held canoes and been central to ritualistic practices.

CAPE LOOKOUT

Cape Lookout State Park is a panoramic vista that sits high above the pounding Pacific surf. At the state park, there are over eight miles of hiking trails through lush old-growth forest. The park’s headlands jut two miles out into the ocean.  A trail along the southern edge of the cape leads to viewpoints that extend in all directions.

Unfortunately, during our visit to the Three Capes, storm damage precluded us from having access to the lookouts and trails.

Instead, we headed straight toward the state park’s beach and relished a stroll on the idyllic stretch of sand. The state park’s day use area offers nice picnic spots and terrific views.

Access requires an Oregon State Parks pass.

CAPE KIWANDA

Cape Kiwanda, the southernmost of the Three Capes, is among the scenic highlights of the northern Oregon coast. During summer months, it is popular with surfers, kayakers, kite flyers and beer-lovers who come for the conveniently-located Pelican Brewery.

The parking lot near Pelican Brewery charges $10/day for access to the area. While we were initially irked that we couldn’t use our Oregon State Parks Pass or our America the Beautiful Pass, our frustrations immediately subsided upon seeing the area.

Cape Kiwanda is simply one of the most spellbinding places in Oregon. It rivals Samuel H Boardman State Park, the central coast near Cape Perpetua, and Ecola State Park.

To skip it would be a shame.

Cape Kiwanda’s main attraction is a gigantic dune that looms over the northern edge of Pacific City. Visitors can scale the dune for views of the coastline’s windswept beaches and rock formations.

From the top of the sand dune, spectacular views unfold in all directions. Cape Kiwanda’s Haystack Rock—not to be confused with the similarly-named sea stack at Cannon Beach—is the world’s fourth largest ocean monolith, rising 327 ft.

We climbed to the top of the sand dune and then made our way to the overlooks on the cape’s western edge. Following the fence’s boundaries, we photographed the numerous sea arches and rock monoliths that speckle the area.

THE NESKOWIN GHOST FOREST

Just south of the Three Capes Scenic Road, about 100 ancient decaying stumps stand sentinel on the windswept sand. Dubbed the Neskowin Ghost Forest, these crustacean-covered tree trunks are an eerie reminder of the Sitka spruce trees that towered over the area for two millennia.

For centuries, these old stumps were hidden under the beach. Then, in the winter of 1997, severe storms pummeled the coast. In doing so, they eroded the sands and exposed the uncanny forest that was buried beneath.

My family and I visited the Neskowin Ghost Forest as part of a day trip to the northern coast.

Though the forest isn’t part of the established Three Capes Scenic Loop, it would be a shame to miss if you are in the area during low tide.

WHERE TO STAY ON THE THREE CAPES LOOP

The Oregon Coast caters to a mix of accommodation types that range from rustic seaside motels to large resorts. The bulk of accommodations near the Three Capes Scenic Road can be found in Pacific City. Those willing to travel a little bit farther can find additional lodging in Lincoln City (23 miles away).

For travelers looking to camp, Cape Lookout State Park offers a mix of RV, tent and yurt camping. For those looking to relax in comfort, the Inn at Cape Kiwanda and Surf & Sand Inn receive stellar reviews.

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Oregon’s Highway 101 is, without a doubt, among the most scenic driving routes in the United States. It showcases the best of the Pacific Coast’s state parks, wildlife refuges, and scenic vistas.

Yet, occasionally, the road travels inland, away from Oregon’s magnificent waterfront attractions.

In these instances, detouring from the US 101 reaps the greatest rewards.

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Leavenworth Washington is a little slice of southern Germany that lies in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Located at the eastern edge of Washington’s Cascade Mountains, the logging-town-turned-Bavarian village is more than 5,000 miles from the place it was made to resemble.

With its faux-German storefronts and exaggerated Bavarian folk culture, it isn’t the type of place I typically choose to visit

In fact, I’ve often found myself remarking at the town’s kitschy and over-the-top decor.

But I have to admit that Leavenworth in winter is a magical sight. As manufactured as it may be, its twinkling Christmas lights and gently falling snow have the power to seduce even the most ardent of skeptics.

LEAVENWORTH WASHINGTON

Leavenworth wasn’t always Bavaria.

Before it transformed into a touristy alpine village with Munich-style beerhalls and lederhosen-clad waitstaff, Leavenworth was a timber town that sat along the railroad tracks.

In the early 1900s, Leavenworth thrived. Its logging and sawmill industries made it a relatively prosperous little town.

But when the railroad re-routed its tracks and moved elsewhere, Leavenworth began a steep decline. The area became a near ghost town, on the brink of extinction.

After decades of job loss and economic hardship, its citizens decided to give the little mountain community a Bavarian-style makeover. The town reinvented itself and embraced every German cliche imaginable. It became a place where tourists could come to expect beerhalls and bratwursts and some of the best Christmas markets in America.

Their gamble proved successful.

And the rest is history.

THINGS TO DO IN LEAVENWORTH IN WINTER

Even those who roll their eyes at Leavenworth’s imitation game should be able to appreciate the area’s striking setting. The small town lies on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, where craggy alpine peaks collide with fertile apple-growing orchards.

Its position between two ecosystems makes it an outdoor playground akin to Bend, in Central Oregon. It is a place that attracts recreation enthusiasts with its abundance of nearby hiking, skiing, rock-climbing, and river-floating.

In summer, the Bavarian town is a gateway to the Wenatchee National Forest and Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

In winter, the town itself transforms into a wonderland of jingling sleigh bells, twinkling lights, and silent snowfall.

Leavenworth’s tasty food and plentiful accommodation options are just icing on the cake (or salt on the pretzel, in this case).

WINDOW SHOP ON FRONT STREET

Leavenworth’s Bavarian-themed Front Street is nothing if not picturesque. It may be cheesy and inauthentic, but that doesn’t make it any less adorable. Add unique boutiques and a slew of independent shops to the mix, and it isn’t difficult to see why Front Street is the epicenter of the area’s appeal.

Even I, who find shopping to be a chore on most occasions, couldn’t resist peeking into the town’s cutesy shops. They house Bavarian-themed gifts and souvenirs, unique clothing and accessories, and a wide range of  specialty foods. We found one shop dedicated to tea and spices, another to olive oil, and another to soap.

In a world where online shopping and big box stores are the unfortunate norm, Leavenworth’s thriving independent shops are a refreshing change.

VISIT THE NUTCRACKER MUSEUM

The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum sits prominently on Front Street. Founded in 1995 by George and Arlene Wagner, it claims to have the world’s largest collection of nutcrackers.

In addition to the popular toy-soldier-shaped nutcrackers that have become Christmas staples, the museum contains shelves of antiques dating back to Roman times. It displays nut-opening devices from more than 50 countries.

In total, there are more than 7,000 nutcrackers in the museum’s collection.

Entrance to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum costs $5 per person. It is open daily from 11am-5pm.

Even if you’re not planning on buying tickets, it is worth taking a look at the items on display in the museum store.

WALK ALONG THE LEAVENWORTH WATERFRONT

The Leavenworth Waterfront Park provides a quick escape from the hubbub of downtown’s tourist activity. Its meandering pathways line the flanks of the Wenatchee River near downtown.

Interpretive signs explain the natural and cultural history of the area. On summer days, the park draws swimmers and picnickers. In winter, it transforms into a wonderland of ash-colored trees and brilliant snow.

Dan and I enjoyed exploring Leavenworth’s waterfront park.

While the rest of the tourists were busy nursing their hangovers, we relished the serenity of the town’s nearby nature.

SKI OR SLED ON THE LEAVENWORTH SLEDDING HILL

Leavenworth sits between two fantastic Washington ski resorts: Stevens Pass Ski Area on Highway 2, and Mission Ridge in Wenatchee. Both ski areas are located 35 miles from town, in either direction.

But sledders and beginning skiers need look no further than the outskirts of town.

The Leavenworth Ski Hill lies about five minutes north of downtown, at the edge of Tumwater Mountain. It contains rope tows and 100 ft of elevation.

Alpine and nordic skiing in the area costs $22 per day for adults and $17 for youth (ages 5-17). A day of tubing will set you back $23 per person.

VISIT THE LEAVENWORTH REINDEER FARM

Touring the reindeer farm is one of the top things to do in Leavenworth with kids. Though it is open year-round, the farm is most popular around Christmastime—when fresh snowfall and Santa visits fill its premises with winter cheer.

I’ll be honest. I didn’t visit the reindeer farm. The Leavenworth attraction is so popular in winter that it was sold out during our trip to the area.

Visiting the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm costs $20 per person. Entrance includes complementary cocoa, cider, and cookies.

EXPLORE THE TOWN’S SURROUNDING NATURE

If the faux-German storefronts aren’t enough to keep you entertained, Leavenworth also serves as the main hub for forays into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and Wenatchee National Forest.

In winter, many of the area’s higher-elevation hiking trails become off-limits to all but the heartiest explorers. Snow and ice block off roads in the national forest and render trailheads largely inaccessible.

Luckily, Leavenworth’s surroundings contain specific destinations that cater to winter exploration. West of town, Lake Wenatchee Sno-Park boasts a large network of nordic and snowshoeing trails. East of town, Sauk Campground and Pipe Creek sno parks provide less-crowded alternatives.

When Dan and I traveled to Leavenworth in winter, we had the intention of snowshoeing Wenatchee Crest—a popular trail along Highway 97.

But when we came across an overflowing parking area, we chose to press onward until we found a place to park. After a few misses, we stumbled upon FSR 7230-211.

The obscure forest service road leads to a fire tower. Along its entire length, it showcases extraordinary views of the surrounding snowcapped mountains. We couldn’t believe that we were the only people on the trail.

Our impromptu adventure was a testament to the fact that the area’s beauty extends far beyond its most popular tourist attractions.

WHERE TO STAY IN LEAVENWORTH

As one of Washington’s top tourist towns, Leavenworth has no shortage of fantastic places to stay. It boasts everything from small guesthouses to large resorts.

True to its theme, Leavenworth includes a few noteworthy Bavarian-style hotels and chalets in its lodging mix. Notable places to stay include the Obertal Inn, the Ritterhoff Inn, and the Bavarian Lodge. The Icicle Village Resort is another popular option that includes a spa.

Part of Leavenworth’s appeal is its cozy forested setting. It is one of the top places in Washington for winter cabin rentals. Travelers looking for intimate winter retreats may want to consider the top-reviewed LOGE Leavenworth Riverside and Alpine Thyme Cabins.

Reserving rooms is advance is usually necessary, especially in winter. The town is a popular winter getaway destination that runs at full capacity between December and February.

WHERE TO EAT IN LEAVENWORTH

Leavenworth has tons of places to eat for a town of its size. Behind its Disney-style facades, the mountain town brims with tasty eateries and German-style biergartens.

During our Leavenworth visit, Dan and I sampled apple strudels from the Bavarian Bakery and feasted on pretzels and bratwurst’s from München Haus.

If you don’t feel the need to pretend you’re in Bavaria, you can choose from a full range of other dining establishments.

I’ve heard great things about the Blewett Brewing Company and Argonaut Kitchen.

LEAVENWORTH WINTER FESTIVALS

It is no wonder that cheery Leavenworth is a year-round tourist destination. The charming mountain town boasts festivals for pretty much every month of the year.

In September, the Autumn Leaf Festival brings live music and food booths. One month later, Oktoberfest draws beer-lovers in droves.

On Thanksgiving weekend, the Christkindlemarkt ushers in a season of holiday spirit. Christmas lights line rafters and the streets fill with market stalls selling handmade arts and crafts.

The festive season lasts through Valentine’s Day. It includes the Christmas Lighting Festival in December, and the Bavarian Ice Fest in January.

*****

Leavenworth may be manufactured and cheesy, but that doesn’t make it any less magical in wintertime. With its twinkling lights and blanket of fresh powder, the former logging town provides the perfect holiday escape for rain-drenched Seattleites.

Sure, visiting Leavenworth is not like visiting Europe. The small town along Washington’s Cascade Loop is not steeped in history. Nor is it authentic in its architecture and traditions.

But I’m not pretending that it is, either.

So when I’m unable to justify a weekend trip to Europe on a whim, visiting Leavenworth is a pretty good alternative.

____________________________________

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Southern Utah is an expansive desert wilderness that beckons travelers from around the world. One of nature’s great canvases, it features chiseled canyons, red rock hoodoos, delicate arches, soaring cliffs, and lonely unpaved roads.

I’ve said it often and I’ll say it again: There’s no place quite like southern Utah.

While the United States has its fair share of breathtaking landscapes, southern Utah is truly out of this world. The legendary area—home to some of the American Southwest’s signature attractions—boasts some of the most iconic desertscapes on Earth.

Its swath of red desert encompasses no less than five stunning national parks.

And while each is truly unique and deserving of individual praise, together Utah’s national parks comprise the legendary Mighty 5.

THE MIGHTY 5 IN UTAH

Utah’s Mighty 5—Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches—are certainly worthy of the hype they receive. While the parks each contain striking red rock landscapes, they are all completely unique in their own way.

Each Utah park anchors a travel region that beckons adventurers and photographers. In Arches, stone bridges litter a juniper-clad desert. In nearby Canyonlands, water and erosion have carved out a sprawling landscape of pinnacles and chiseled ravines. In Capitol Reef, little-known backroads give way to epic lonely vistas. In Bryce, fairy tale hoodoos inspire photographers in droves.

And finally, in Zion, Utah’s red rock grandeur culminates in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

While some might argue about which Utah national park is the most beautiful, one thing is for certain: Collectively, the Mighty 5 have a nickname that is well-suited.

OUR MIGHTY 5 ROAD TRIP

We visited Utah’s National Parks over the course of two road trips. Collectively, these short vacations consisted of two days in Zion, one day in Bryce, two days in Capitol Reef, one day in Arches, and two days in Canyonlands.

On our first trip, we spent a weekend exploring Capitol Reef with a Toyota 4Runner. The vehicle allowed us to travel the national park’s treacherous roads with little fear of getting stuck.

One month later, we returned to southern Utah with the intention of visiting the other national parks. We wanted more freedom to explore without having to worry about food and accommodation, so we decided to rent a campervan with Traveller’s Autobarn. The budget campervan rental allowed us to sample van-life for less than the price of a car rental.

Most people access the area via Las Vegas (2.5 hours from Zion, 6.5 hours from Arches) or Salt Lake City (3+ hours from each of the Mighty 5). When we visited Capitol Reef, we used Salt Lake City as our gateway. On our longer road trip, we chose to fly in and out of Las Vegas.

A mighty 5 road trip takes at least one week, end to end. A minimum of ten days would be ideal. Anything less than a week means being forced to skip out on some of the most awe-inspiring attractions in the United States.

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

Arches National Park is a beloved Utah tourist destination. A masterpiece of nature, it is renowned the world over for its delicate stone gardens. The national park’s giant sandstone arcs lie beneath the gaze of the La Sal Mountains. While the entire area is a red rock paradise, the natural rock arches are its primary draw.

In fact, its signature arch is so universally lauded, that it has become a defining symbol of the American Southwest.

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK WINDOWS SECTION

The Windows Section is one of three main areas in Arches National Park. It is home to a dense concentration of arches that stand within eyeshot of each other.

A popular short one-mile loop in the Windows Area visits North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch.

Across the parking lot, cavernous Double Arch—the park’s tallest—is another site worth visiting.

DEVIL’S GARDEN

Devil’s Garden is home to Arches National Park’s longest official hiking trail. It lies at the very end of the Arches National Park Scenic Drive.

The hike through Devil’s Garden winds between towering rock spires and passes by Landscape Arch—the world’s longest natural bridge.

Devil’s Garden Loop is the park’s most adventurous trek. For those looking to lace up their hiking boots, it brings a slew of rewards. In just under eight miles, the trail features no less than eight spectacular natural arches.

DELICATE ARCH SECTION

Even if you’re unfamiliar with the beauty of Utah’s national parks, I’m sure you’ve seen photos of Delicate Arch. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the US National Parks System.

The best way to experience Delicate Arch is by hiking the scenic three-mile trail to its base.

The upside-down U shaped arch is the national park’s top attraction. It is the largest free-standing Arch in the park.

The Delicate Arch Trail may be packed with tourists, but it is popular for a reason. If you only have limited time to spend in the Utah park, then hiking to the exquisite stone arch should be your #1 priority.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING ARCHES

Arches National Park is compact and easy to navigate. Like Bryce, it features tons of roadside viewpoints and short hiking trails that make it possible to see the best of the area in a limited timeframe.

• ARCHES NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEE

Admission to Arches National park is good for seven days and costs $30 per vehicle. Travelers intent on visiting both Arches and Canyonlands may want to consider the $55 Southeastern Utah Parks Pass (valid for one year).

If you’re planning on visiting more than three national parks in Utah, then an Annual Interagency Pass is your most cost-effective bet.

• HOTELS NEAR ARCHES

When visiting Arches, most travelers choose to stay in nearby Moab. The town is Utah’s gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands.

Moab has a wide variety of accommodations that suit all types of budget and lodging preferences. Hotels with particularly good reviews include the Mainstay Suites (budget), the Hoodoo Moab (mid-range) and the Sunflower Hill Inn (upper-end).

• CAMPING IN ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

Devil’s Garden Campground is the only lodging option within Arches National Park. A full-service camping area, it lies situated among spectacular rock fins.

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Canyonlands National Park boasts some of the most enthralling and underrated vistas in all of Utah. Within its 520 square mile expanse, it contains winding river canyons, towering rock spires, white-rimmed cliffs, and ancient Native American settlements.

The Colorado and Green rivers form a Y that divides Canyonlands into four distinct districts: The Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and Horseshoe Canyon.

Each district is independent from the other and contains its own set of must-see attractions.

ISLAND IN THE SKY DISTRICT

Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky offers breathtaking views over the Colorado and Green rivers. Its roadside pullouts lie along a Y-shaped ribbon of pavement that traces the entire length of the plateau.

In the Island in the Sky, majestic overlooks provide accessible aerial vistas of the sprawling red rock maze.

From the visitor center, the national park road leads past numerous overlooks and trailheads, toward Grand Viewpoint. Chief places of interest include the White Rim Overlook and Buck Canyon Overlook.

A secondary branch off the main road leads toward Upheaval Dome. Notable stops along the way include the Aztec Ruins and Whale Rock.

The Island in the Sky’s panoramic viewpoints bring visitors face-to-face with the area’s sheer walls and white-tipped cliffs. Every overlook in the district offers a different birds-eye vantage point over the chiseled desertscape.

THE NEEDLES DISTRICT

The Needles District is famous for its wall of stone pillars that jut skyward like blunted needles in a vast pincushion. Among its towering rock gardens, the area contains some of the best hiking trails in southern Utah.

Although it isn’t as heavily trafficked as Island in the Sky, the hiker’s wonderland boasts bewitching vistas, diverse topography, and unforgettable trails.

Top hikes in The Needles include the Chesler Park Loop and the Druid Arch Trail.

THE MAZE AND HORSESHOE CANYON

The Maze and Horseshoe Canyon—two areas of the park that I have yet to explore—are remote and seldom-visited. They require 4×4 vehicles and loads of time.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING CANYONLANDS

Canyonlands is huge. Even with two jam-packed days of sightseeing, Dan and I only scratched the surface. If you’re looking to visit the park in one day, Island in the Sky provides the easiest access to viewpoints. Alternatively, if you’re a lover of meandering hikes, The Needles affords views of otherworldly terrain.

Beyond its two most popular sections, Canyonlands is America at its most wild and inaccessible.

• CANYONLANDS ENTRANCE FEE

Admission to Canyonlands National Park costs $30. For travelers wishing to spend more time in the area, a Southeast Utah Parks pass may be a more effective purchase. It costs $55, is valid for one year, and allows for unlimited entrances to both Arches and Canyonlands.

Of course, I always advocate for the $80 Interagency Annual Pass. It provides the most far-reaching access to America’s federal lands.

• HOTELS NEAR CANYONLANDS

Most visitors to Canyonlands will choose to stay in Moab—southeast Utah’s premier tourism hub. As a gateway to the region’s attractions, Moab has a long list of fantastic places to stay. These places suit a wide array of travel styles and budgetary constraints.

Top-rated hotels in Moab include the Castle Valley Inn and Sunflower Hill Inn.

• CAMPING IN CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

In the Island in the Sky District, the Willow Flat Campground has 12 first-come first-served spots and is open year-round. Nearby, Dead Horse Point State Park contains two additional established camping areas.

The Needles Campground has 26 designated spaces and costs $20 per night.

CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

Though Capitol Reef is Utah’s least-visited national park, its scenery is no less awe-inspiring. Most people limit their visits to the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive and stop by the attractions along Highway 24.

But the park is so much more than a drive-through destination or quick pit-stop.

Capitol Reef is steeped in history and geological importance. Top things to do in Capitol Reef include visiting the orchards in the Fruita District and going off-grid to the park’s Cathedral Valley and Waterpocket Districts

THE FRUITA DISTRICT

The Fruita District is home to the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. It is the most highly-trafficked area in the park and contains Capitol Reef’s only network of paved roads.

The 7.9 mile Scenic Drive splits from Highway 24 in Fruita and winds through the heart of Capitol Reef National Park. Along the way, it allows visitors to see many of the park’s famous formations. It also provides access to popular trailheads and two unpaved offshoot roads.

Capitol Reef’s Fruita District features apple orchards, shaded picnic areas, scenic drives, and a combination of historical and cultural attractions. Top places of interest include the Gifford Homestead, the Grand Wash Road, and Capitol Gorge.

CATHEDRAL VALLEY LOOP

The Cathedral Valley is a scenic area of Capitol Reef that lies north of Highway 24. A remote and pristine desert, it is characterized by cathedral-like monoliths that erupt from the desert floor.

The Cathedral Valley is among the most enchanting areas of the park.

And yet, while it is undoubtedly a must-see attraction, it remains almost entirely off the trodden tourist trail.

Visiting the striking Temples of the Sun and Moon is the highlight of the Cathedral Valley Loop. The rock formations lie just inside the border of the national park, along a treacherous sandy road.

Other must-see destinations along the loop include the Cathedral Valley Overlook, the Upper and Lower South Desert overlooks, and the Bentonite Hills.

WATERPOCKET DISTRICT

The Waterpocket Fold is the main reason that Capitol Reef became a national park in 1971.

A 100 mile buckle in the earth’s crust, it is a geological curiosity that once blocked the westward migration of pioneers.

The Strike Valley Overlook provides the best views over the park’s extensive wrinkle. It is well worth the detour, despite its somewhat questionable access road.

From Fruita, the drive to the Waterpocket District follows the Notom-Bullfrog Road through the Strike Valley. Then, it veers onto the Burr Trail Road, ascends a series of hairpin switchbacks, detours to the Strike Valley Overlook, and continues toward Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

While Capitol Reef is Utah’s second largest national park by area, most travelers limit their visits to the Fruita District due to easier accessibility. In other areas of the park, infrastructure is rudimentary at best (think potholed dirt roads, pockets of sand, and river crossings without bridges).

If you’re planning on visiting all three areas of the park, make sure you have access to a 4 wheel drive with high clearance.

• CAPITOL REEF ENTRANCE FEE

Capitol Reef operates on the honor system. Unlike the other national parks in Utah, Capitol Reef does not have a designated fee collection kiosk at its entrances.

The park’s Scenic Drive costs $20 and is payable at the visitor center. There are no fees associated with traveling the Cathedral Valley Loop or Burr Trail Road.

• HOTELS NEAR CAPITOL REEF

Torrey is the gateway to Capitol Reef. The shaded tree-lined town is home to a host of hotels and lodges.

Capitol Reef Resort and the Cougar Ridge Lodge both have great reviews and lie within close proximity to the park’s entrance.

• CAMPING IN CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

Capitol Reef houses three campgrounds: the 71 spot reservable Fruita Campground, and the primitive first-come first-served Cathedral Valley and Cedar Mesa campgrounds.

Additionally, since much of the national park borders BLM land, finding a camping spot is easy even in peak season. On BLM land, dispersed camping is permitted for free, for up to 14 days at a time.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Visiting Bryce Canyon is like setting foot in a fairy tale. Renowned for its forest of otherworldly rock spires, the park’s ethereal landscape is nothing short of breathtaking.

Bryce’s spire-clad environment is utterly unique and unforgettable. It is an artist’s inspiration; a photographer’s dream.

The national park’s must-see viewpoints line the eastern edge of a 20 mile scenic drive that follows the canyon rim. Near the park entrance, viewpoints showcase the striking Bryce Canyon Amphitheater. Toward the end of the road, panoramic points offer more intimate glimpses into the canyon’s lesser-known reaches.

BRYCE CANYON AMPHITEATER

The Amphitheater is the centerpiece of Bryce Canyon National Park. The Amphitheater viewpoints include Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Bryce Point, and Inspiration Point. A rim trail connects the viewpoints and provides sweeping aerial panoramas of the canyon and its jagged hoodoos.

Sunrise Point, near the park’s visitor center, boasts postcard-worthy views of the Silent City and Thor’s Hammer. The colors at Sunrise Point are among the most vivid in the park.

The Navajo Loop/Queen’s Garden combination trail is one of the top hikes in Bryce. It leaves from Sunrise Point and descends into a spectacular area of jagged rock pinnacles, before making its way back up to Sunset Point.

BRYCE CANYON SCENIC DRIVE

For travelers with a bit more time, the viewpoints along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive are likewise compelling. They offer intimate glimpses into more off-the-beaten-path corners of the national park.

Chief places of interest along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive include the Natural Bridge Viewpoint, Swamp Canyon, and Rainbow Point.

While its aerial views are somewhat less dramatic than those in the Amphitheater, the stops along Bryce Canyon’s scenic drive highlight the area’s varied geology. Carpets of ponderosa pines contrast against red rock spires. In the distance, the 11,328 ft Aquarius Plateau looms above Utah’s nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING BRYCE

Logistically, Bryce Canyon is easy to navigate. As the smallest national park in Utah, its top attractions can be easily visited in one day. The park hugs a 20 mile scenic road that is open to both shuttle service and individual vehicle traffic.

• BRYCE CANYON ENTRANCE FEE

Entrance to Bryce Canyon costs $35 per vehicle. The pass includes unlimited entrances and is valid for one week. If traveling to Bryce as part of a multi-park road trip, however, I recommend purchasing the Interagency Pass for $80.

• HOTELS NEAR BRYCE CANYON

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the only accommodation option within the confines of the national park. The historic hotel offers guest suites, motel rooms, and cabins that are within walking distance of the Amphitheater.

Near the park’s entrance, the small town of Bryce has a handful of places to stay—including Ruby’s Inn and the Luxe Bryce Canyon Home.

• CAMPING IN BRYCE

Bryce Canyon National Park has two campgrounds that are located within close proximity of the Bryce Amphitheater. North Campground operates on a first-come first-served basis, while Sunset Campground accepts reservations during peak season.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

Zion National Park is often considered to be the pinnacle of Utah’s grandeur. The park features sheer red rock cliffs, sweeping canyon vistas, and some of the best hiking trails in the United States.

The spectacular park encompasses 232 square miles of pure awesomeness. A red rock wonderland, it is home to narrow sandstone canyons, soaring red cliffs, and pockets of emerald vegetation.

From its intoxicating colors to its lofty vistas that overlook the meandering Virgin River, the Utah park brims with bucket-list backdrops.

THE ZION CANYON

Zion Canyon is the national park’s beating heart. Its hiking trails afford some of the most iconic views in Utah.

Zion’s popularity comes at a price, however. The canyon can get incredibly crowded. In fact, the area is so popular that the park implemented a mandatory shuttle system in order to alleviate congestion.

Still, the red rock canyon is a highlight of Utah’s Mighty 5 and a must-visit bucket list destination for nature-lovers.

Popular hikes in the Zion Canyon include Angel’s Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows.

THE KOLOB CANYONS

The Kolob Canyons sees only a fraction of Zion National Park’s visitors. Yet the underrated area is no less impressive than the park’s more touristy destinations.

The Kolob Canyons showcases a series of parallel fissures that are ripe for exploring. These fissures, or ‘finger canyons,’ conceal lesser-known hiking trails that lead to oases, natural arches, and unique sandstone formations.

Kolob Canyons Road is a scenic drive that offers a glimpse into the finger canyons. The road ends high up on a ridge, at Kolob Canyons Viewpoint.

THE ZION-MOUNT CARMEL ROAD

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is the main DIY scenic drive in Zion National Park. The road begins near Springdale and climbs up a canyon wall in a series of switchbacks. Two tunnels—lit by windows that cut through to the cliff face—slice through the deep sandstone escarpment.

While primarily a thoroughfare with scenic vistas, the Zion-Mount Carmel Road is also home to one of the national park’s most scenic hiking trails.

The one mile Canyon Overlook Hike is a must-do activity along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Its sweeping vistas rival some of the most beloved viewpoints along the main Zion Canyon.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING ZION

Zion is Utah’s most popular national park. It is a mecca for those seeking unparalleled desert scenery and iconic hiking trails.

Unfortunately, overwhelming crowds have forced Zion to enact a ban on private vehicles in the main canyon from July-November.

A shuttle service operates along the main canyon road during peak season. Be prepared for long lines and time-consuming waits.

• ZION CANYON ENTRANCE FEE

Zion costs $35 to enter, per vehicle. The entrance fee is valid for both Kolob Canyons and the main area of the park. If you’re planning on spending more than seven consecutive days in the park, Zion annual passes cost $70, while Interagency Passes will set you back $80.

• HOTELS NEAR ZION NATIONAL PARK

The historic Zion Lodge lies near the Emerald Pools Trailhead, about halfway down Zion Canyon. It is the best place to stay for those who want unparalleled access to the park’s trails and attractions.

Outside the park, most Zion tourists choose to stay in Springdale. Top-rated accommodations in Springdale include Flanigan’s Inn and the Red Rock Inn Cottages.

• CAMPING IN ZION

Zion National Park is home to two established campgrounds. The South Campground and Watchman Campground (each $20), have more than 300 combined camping spots. They lie on either side of the visitor center, near the main entrance. Advanced booking is necessary.

BEYOND THE MIGHTY 5

The Mighty 5 are the undisputed highlights of Utah.

But for those who wish to add more flavor to their road trips, the state contains a number of places that are equally compelling.

• GRAND STAIRCASE ESCALANTE

The Grand Staircase Escalante covers large swaths of southern Utah. It boasts awe-inspiring red rock landscapes and a litany of  off-the-beaten-path attractions.

We’ve taken two trips through the Grand Staircase and have barely scratched the surface. In addition to the views from Highway 12, we particularly enjoyed traveling the Burr Trail Road and visiting Grosvenor Arch.

• STATE PARKS IN UTAH

There are 43 state parks in Utah. Many of them lie in the southern third of the state and showcase red rock grandeur worthy of national park status. Some of the most beautiful state parks include Kodachrome Basin, Dead Horse Point, and Snow Canyon.

• NORTHERN ARIZONA

Southern Utah and Northern Arizona have a lot of commonalities. They share an awe-inspiring red rock desert landscape that is second to none.

If you’ve got time in your itinerary, it is worth dropping below the border to visit Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Upper and Lower Antelope canyons.

*****

While abroad, I often get asked advice on traveling to the USA. People want to know what places I, as a native, might recommend.

And southern Utah is almost unequivocally my first recommendation.

Sure, there are other extraordinary landscapes in my home country. Hawaii is paradisiacal. Alaska is wild. California is varied. Wyoming has Yellowstone. Montana has Glacier. Oregon and Washington have some of my favorite places on Earth.

But while I could spend all day singing praises about my beloved Pacific Northwest, Utah always springs to the top of my mind when discussing top USA travel destinations.

The state’s red rock desertscapes are extraordinary. Its Mighty 5 are unparalleled.

In my travels to over 100 countries, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anything quite like them.

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Canyonlands National Park is a rugged wilderness of buttes and mesas that sprawls outward in a tapestry of oranges and reds.

The Canyonlands Needles District is one of four distinct areas within the national park. It is an oft-forgotten wonderland of stone pillars that jut skyward like blunted needles. Among the area’s towering rock garden, it conceals some of the best hiking trails in the American Southwest.

Although it isn’t as heavily trafficked as other areas in Utah’s Mighty 5, the hiker’s paradise boasts bewitching vistas, diverse topography, and unforgettable trails.

VISITING CANYONLANDS: THE NEEDLES

Showcasing 527 square miles of southern Utah’s most dramatic desert scenery, Canyonlands National Park is as varied as it is vast. Sheer canyon walls loom above the Colorado and Green Rivers, their serpentine waters snaking 1000ft below white-tipped cliffs. Above their fold, stone spires erupt from the desert floor.

The sprawling maze of chiseled rock consists of four districts that are separated by hours of driving: the Island in the Sky, the Maze, Horseshoe Canyon, and the Needles.

Each area of the park is striking in its own way.

Yet, when it comes to accessibility, they differ vastly.

The Island in the Sky is by far the most popular destination within Canyonlands National Park. Located near Moab, the district features vehicle-accessible viewpoints and iconic landmarks.

The Maze and Horseshoe Canyon—on the complete opposite spectrum—are remote and seldom visited. They require 4×4 vehicles and loads of time.

The Canyonlands Needles is somewhat of a happy medium. Home to a vast network of trails that weave between 100-plus-foot-tall red-and-white-striped sandstone columns, the district is arguably the park’s best hiking destination. Thanks to its comparative isolation and lack of roadside attractions, it is also relatively off the beaten path.

THE NEEDLES SCENIC DRIVE

While Island in the Sky is chock-full of roadside pullouts and short walking paths, the Canyonlands Needles District reserves its most dramatic scenery for those willing to put in extra effort.

At just over six miles long, the scenic drive in the Needles is quite short in comparison to that of Utah’s other national parks.

Still, for travelers with limited time or desire to hike, it offers the opportunity to look out over the area’s natural arches and pinnacles.

Popular stops along the short paved road include the Wooden Shoe Viewpoint, Pothole Point, and Roadside Ruin.

CANYONLANDS HIKES: THE NEEDLES DISTRICT

Though it has a few roadside viewpoints, the Needles District is not the type of place that can easily be explored from behind a vehicle dashboard. Its awe-inspiring attractions lie scattered about the desert floor. To reach them, one must tackle the area’s complex network of hiking trails and rutted 4 wheel drive roads.

While the Canyonlands Needles contain more miles of hiking trails than we could possibly squeeze into a single day, Dan and I did our best to soak in the area’s most impressive views with limited time.

At the advice of a park ranger, we focused on the Chesler Park Loop. The popular-yet-lightly-trafficked 11 mile loop begins at the Elephant Hill Trailhead. It includes the Chesler Park Trail and Joint Trail.

After making our way through the Joint Trail, Dan and I opted to tack on a detour. We still had some energy and daylight to spare, so we made our way to Druid Arch—one of the most spectacular landmarks in the Needles District.

In total, our hike consisted of approximately 16 miles over rolling elevation. It encompassed three of the best hiking trails in the Canyonlands Needles.

The pieced-together loop ranks among the best hikes I’ve ever completed.

• CHESLER PARK

The Chesler Park Loop provides the best up-close views of Canyonlands’ Needles District. The trail climbs between sandstone fins and mushrooms that looks straight out of a Dr Seuss novel. The 11-mile loop feels mostly flat, but packs in 1,200 feet of rolling ups and downs throughout the day.

Leaving the Elephant Hill trailhead, Chesler Loop winds in and out of canyons and squeezes between towering pillars. It passes pothole-speckled rock slabs and living cryptobiotic soil—climbing to Chesler Park through a dramatic gap in the wall of needles.

At the Needles Overlook, 360 degree panoramas span out in all directions.

Beyond, views open up toward the Maze and reveal the 10,000-foot-tall La Sal Mountains on the horizon.

From Chesler Park, hikers can either turn back toward the Elephant Hill Trailhead, or continue the scenic loop along the Joint Trail. The 5.4 mile out and back trail to Chesler Park is a must-see on its own.

But when combined with the Joint Trail, it is truly among Utah’s top echelon of hikes.

• THE JOINT TRAIL

From the Chesler Park gardens, the sandy hiking path drops into a gap between boulders and seemingly disappears into a narrow ravine.  The two mile section beyond Chesler Park is known as the Joint Trail. Along its most popular quarter-mile stretch, it follows a surreal slot between soaring rocks.

As the trail travels through the rock fracture, its walls seem to stretch higher and higher. The pathway reveals a hallway that is up to 40 ft tall and—in some spots—only three feet wide.

There are a few areas along the Joint Trail that involve climbing over ladders, but the path is otherwise quite level.

• DRUID ARCH TRAIL

The trail to Druid Arch is among the most spectacular hikes in the Needles. It follows the first part of the Chesler Park Loop, then branches off toward Elephant Canyon. As an out-and-back, the path is just shy of a dozen miles. When added to the full Chesler Park and Joint Trail Loop, it clocks in at around 16.

Since we had the time and energy to continue our walk after reaching Chesler Park, Dan and I decided to tack on a visit to the impressive landmark.

The angular arch—with its elongated openings—rivals the crescent-shape spans found in Arches National Park. It is among the most iconic attractions in the Canyonlands Needles.

For much of the hike,  the trail to Druid Arch travels along Elephant Canyon’s sandy wash.

As the trail ascends up the dry river bed, its multi-hued sandstone walls—topped by spires, knobs and fins—grow in stature and become more impressive by the mile.

The final quarter mile of trail requires hikers to scale a ladder and then scramble up a steep boulder-choked ravine. Upon reaching the sandstone bench at the top of the ravine, fantastic views unfold over Druid Arch and Elephant Canyon.

The pieced-together loop took us almost the entire day to complete. Over the course of 16 miles, it brought us face-to-face with the Needles District’s most impressive landscapes.

Visiting Druid Arch added five miles to an already long and strenuous hike, but the reward was unequivocally worth the consequent soreness in our feet.

GETTING TO THE NEEDLES

The Needles District of Canyonlands lies near the town of Monticello, about an hour and a half south of Moab.

The scenic drive passes by an unnamed roadside arch and then splits from Highway 191, entering a vast area of buttes and mesas.

Newspaper Rock is located 15 miles west of the highway, along the Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway. It makes for a quick and memorable detour en-route to the Needles.

More than 650 rock art designs—include depictions of animals, human figures, and hunting symbols. It is one of the most impressive collections of petroglyphs in the United States and reminded me of Atlatl Rock in Valley of Fire (albeit far more densely packed with doodles).

Beyond Newspaper Rock, the road leading to the Needles Visitor Center traverses a series of rugged canyons that are defined by their warm-hued walls.

After visiting, I learned that the epic scenery leading up to the Needles is part of the Bears Ears National Monument.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE CANYONLANDS NEEDLES

Since Canyonlands National Park does not have any lodging within its confines, camping is the only option for travelers looking to stay in the park. The Needles Campground has 26 designated spaces and costs $20 per night.

For hikers seeking solitude amidst the rock spires, Canyonlands has an extensive backcountry.

Additionally, BLM lands around the park allow for free dispersed camping.

If camping doesn’t sound appealing, there are plenty of places to stay about an hour away. Lodging can be found in Monticello or Moab —with Moab being much larger and Monticello being closer.

In Monticello, the Farmhouse Cabin boasts rave reviews. In Moab, accommodation options range from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts. Top rated hotels in Moab include the Castle Valley Inn and Sunflower Hill Inn.

Keep in mind that Moab is nearly an hour and a half away from the Needles Visitor Center.

WHEN TO VISIT THE CANYONLANDS NEEDLES

As with many destinations in the American Southwest, the Canyonlands Needles District is best to visit in spring and fall. During the shoulder months, temperatures are moderate throughout the day and remain manageable after sundown.

In summer months, Canyonlands can get oppressively hot, with daytime highs soaring in the 100s. In winter, freezing temperatures can make camping uncomfortably cold.

Dan and I hiked the Needles in early December. We found the daytime weather to be perfect for hiking.

*****

When compared to the delicate sandstone hoodoos of Bryce or the dramatic cliffs of Zion, Canyonlands’ rugged scenery receives little attention. And the attention it does receive, mostly revolves around the Island in the Sky.

But Canyonlands is so much more than its (justifiably famous) image of Mesa Arch.

In the Needles District, the dramatic scenery rivals some of the most striking landscapes in Utah’s collection of state and national parks.

The area is vast, aesthetically beautiful, and blissfully crowd-free.

For travelers willing to strap on their hiking boots, the rewards of exploring the Needles are as endless as the scenery.

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Bryce Canyon National Park is an otherworldly fairyland of elegant beauty and shocking colors. Renowned for its rock formations that pierce the sky like rust-colored stalagmites, the canyon’s ethereal desertscape is nothing short of breathtaking.

Bryce’s spire-clad environment is utterly unique and unforgettable. A sculpture garden of pastel daggers, the national park is a photographer’s dream and one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest.

I reckon it is impossible not to stand in awe of the park’s sandcastle-like hoodoos, delicate fins, and cavernous amphitheaters.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN BRYCE NATIONAL PARK

Bryce Canyon is a long and narrow park that hugs the eastern edge of Utah’s Paunsaugunt Plateau.

To the west, heavily forested tablelands soar more than 9,000 feet in altitude. To the east, the plateau sinks 2,000 feet to the Paria Valley. Streams and snowmelt have sliced the plateau’s sandstone, forming horseshoe-shaped bowls. The largest and most striking is the Amphitheater—the scenic heart of Bryce Canyon National Park.

Beyond the Amphitheater, a ribbon of road follows the plateau’s ridgeline to Yovimpa Point. Along the way, it affords a birds-eye vantage point over Utah’s Grand Staircase.

MUST-SEE VIEWPOINTS IN BRYCE CANYON

Bryce Canyon’s must-see viewpoints line the eastern side of a 20 mile scenic drive. Near the park entrance, iconic vistas showcase sweeping aerial snapshots of the Bryce Amphitheater. Toward the end of the road, lesser-known panoramic points offer intimate experiences of the canyon’s more remote attractions.

While Bryce Canyon is an Instagram sensation that packs a lot of punch, the park is quite small. Its diminutive size and easy-to-access viewpoints make it a popular day trip destination.

SUNRISE POINT

Sunrise Point, near the park’s visitor center, boasts views of well-known formations such as the Silent City and Thor’s Hammer. The colors at Sunrise Point are among the most vivid in the park.

As its name suggests, Sunrise Point is worth visiting in the early morning hours—when a warm glow illuminates the canyon. Like fire, the orange light quickly spreads over the deepest recesses of the amphitheater and ignites the area in a vibrant blaze.

Sunrise Point is one of Bryce Canyon’s main viewpoints. From its large parking area, trails follow the canyon rim toward Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point.

For travelers looking to stretch their legs and descend below the plateau’s rim, the Navajo Loop Trail is a definite must.

SUNSET POINT

Sunset Point lies adjacent to Sunrise Point, in Bryce Canyon’s main amphitheater. The popular viewpoint affords vistas of Bryce Canyon’s most famous and breathtaking hoodoos.

Below the rim of Sunset Point, the Silent City’s rock sculptures rise from the canyon floor. Amidst these sculptures, a maze of hoodoos and fins lie packed in tight formation.

Following an unforgettable hike through the Queen’s Garden, Dan and I watched the sun dip below Sunset Point. Despite our brisk pace—or perhaps because we spent too much time snapping photos—we didn’t quite get the chance to see the area aglow.

Still, the views over Sunset Point were epic. I can only imagine how beautiful they must be when the sun drenches them in orangey light.

INSPIRATION POINT

Inspiration Point consists of three levels that provide spectacular perspectives of the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater. From its lofty vantage points, visitors look toward the Silent City’s hoodoo forest.

The photogenic viewpoint is one of the top things to see in Bryce. While no trails lead down into the canyon from the steep cliffs of Inspiration Point, the Rim Trail extends north to Sunset Point and south to Bryce Point.

Inspiration Point’s name leaves little to the imagination. From its lookout, a tapestry of inverted icicles sprawl outward like a miniature city.

If the view doesn’t inspire you, then I don’t know what will.

BRYCE POINT AND PARIA VIEW

Visually, Bryce Point shares many similarities with Inspiration Point. It boasts some of the most scenic vistas of the Bryce Amphitheater and is among the park’s most renowned lookouts.

Bryce Point is famous for its extraordinary sunrises. From here, the tops of hoodoos catch fire from the rays of the rising sun.

If the parking area at Sunrise Point becomes overrun with cars at dawn, Bryce Point provides a fantastic alternative.

Conversely, nearby Praia View is a noteworthy place to visit at sunset. While most of the canyon’s hoodoos face away from the setting sun, Paria View is an exception.

SWAMP CANYON

Swamp Canyon—bounded by tan-colored hoodoos on both sides—appears relatively small and sheltered from its road-side overlook. While modest in comparison to the Bryce Amphitheater’s renowned lookouts, the viewpoint offers a more personal look at the area’s geology and vegetation.

Swamp Canyon’s name appears to be a misnomer. Yet below the rim, two tiny creeks provide enough water to sustain lush vegetation and animal life.

The 4.5 mile Swamp Canyon Loop passes through a forested area that is popular among bird-watchers.

FARVIEW POINT AND PIRACY POINT

Like Swamp Canyon, the Farview and Piracy viewpoints showcase the area’s carpet of ponderosa pines. From this overlook, views unfold over the vast staircase of plateaus that extends all the way to the north rim of the Grand Canyon.

A short 0.3 mile trail leads from Farview Point to Piracy Point—a view named for the two enormous hoodoos that resemble ships in battle.

Piracy Point is perfect for those seeking a quieter spot to contemplate the scenery.

NATURAL BRIDGE

Erosion is responsible for Bryce Canyon’s unique rock formations. At the Natural Bridge lookout, ice and gravity sculpted a deep red arch that rivals some of the most spectacular formations in Arches National Park.

The ruby-red arch poses a stark contrast to the verdant Ponderosa forest that acts as its backdrop. In wintertime, a dusting of white makes the area’s colors even more dramatic.

Photographing the Natural Bridge is one of the top things to do in Bryce National Park. The arch isn’t the only one of its kind in the canyon, but it is certainly among its most renowned.

AGUA, PONDEROSA AND BLACK BIRCH CANYONS

Most visitors to Bryce spend their time in and around the Amphitheater. And for good reason. The area is extraordinarily scenic.

But for visitors looking to appreciate Bryce’s landforms in solitude, some of the lesser-known spots can be equally enchanting. Beyond the Natural Bridge, three consecutive smaller viewpoints are worthy of quick photo stops.

At the Agua, Ponderosa and Black Birch Canyons, small parking areas give access to sweeping views of red rock hoodoos and rich evergreen forest.

Beyond, views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante reveal a barren expanse of uncharted desert.

RAINBOW POINT AND YOVIMPA POINT

The adjacent Rainbow and Yovimpa viewpoints overlook Bryce Canyon’s southern end. They offer fantastic panoramas over the area’s colorful rock formations.

Visiting Rainbow and Yovimpa Points provides visitors with a geologic and geographic orientation. From the area’s 9,100 ft vantage point, panoramic views look out over Utah’s multi-tiered Grand Staircase.

HIKES IN BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Unlike Zion and Canyonlands, Bryce is compact and easily accessible. For the most part, it is entirely possible to get a sense for the top things to do in Bryce without ever setting foot on a hiking trail. Bryce Canyon’s overlooks are extraordinary and leave little to the imagination.

That being said, hiking below the canyon rim is a must for travelers who have more than half a day to explore. A network of trails descends 1000 ft into a maze of fragrant junipers and red rock spires. It weaves through the hoodoo-studded landscape and allows for up-close views of the iconic pinnacles.

THE RIM TRAIL

Bryce’s 11 mile Rim Trail connects Fairyland Point with Bryce Point. The beloved pathway offers panoramic views of the amphitheater’s kaleidoscopic topography.  It is level in elevation and accessible from several viewpoints along the canyon’s rim. 

NAVAJO LOOP/QUEEN’S GARDEN

Hiking the 2.9 mile Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden combination trail is one of the most popular things to do in Bryce Canyon.

The spectacular loop—accessible from both Sunrise Point and Sunset Point—features photo-worthy views at every bend.

As I wove through the staggering rock formations, I found it almost impossible to put down my camera. Each rock spire seemed to tell a compelling story. Each angle appeared more convincing than the last.

Had we not been racing the sun in order to make it back to the trailhead before dark, I imagine my memory card would have run out of space.

PEEK-A-BOO LOOP TRAIL

The 5.1 mile Peek-a-Boo Loop Trail begins at Bryce Point and descends to the valley floor. As one of the top hiking trails in Bryce, it is said to be comparable to Navajo Loop and the Fairyland Trail.

Peek-a-Boo Loop can be icy and treacherous in winter.

FAIRYLAND TRAIL

Following our drive to the canyon’s lesser-known viewpoints, Dan and I made our way to Fairyland Point. The scenic overlook marks the beginning of the Fairyland Loop Trail.

While Dan and I didn’t have time to complete the 7.8 mile hike, we took a few moments to admire the area’s hoodoo-clad landscape.

Fairyland Loop is often regarded as one of the best hikes in Utah. It would have been top of our itinerary had we had two days in Bryce.

BRISTLECONE TRAIL

Bristlecone trail is a two mile path that lies at the southernmost end of Bryce Canyon National Park. The path showcases views of Rainbow and Yovimpa Point and passes by ancient bristlecone pines that date back 1,500 years.

MOSSY CAVE

The 0.4 mile long trail to Mossy Cave lies along Highway 12, outside the park’s main entrance gate.

We skipped the hike during our visit to Bryce, since I’d read online that the waterfall was dry and that there were no icicles hanging above the mouth of the cave.

Under ideal conditions though, the trail certainly appears to be worthwhile.

WHEN TO VISIT BRYCE CANYON

Summer is peak tourist season in Bryce, but the canyon’s scenery is accessible and enchanting year-round.

Thanks to its high elevation, Bryce Canyon is generally cooler than southern Utah’s other natural wonders. In summer months, the area is a welcome respite from Utah’s scorching desert temperatures.

In winter, a layer of snow decorates its orange pinnacles and adds dimension to the striking landscape. If you can handle freezing weather, it is a wonderful time to experience the area’s enchanting scenery in relative solitude.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR BRYCE

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the only accommodation option within the confines of the national park. The historic hotel offers guest suites, motel rooms, and cabins that are within walking distance of the Bryce Amphitheater’s most striking viewpoints.

Nearby, two campsites provide additional options for in-park lodging (provided you bring your own tent or RV, of course).

Near the park’s entrance, the small town of Bryce has a handful of places to stay—including Ruby’s Inn, the Best Western Plus Grand Hotel, and the Luxe Bryce Canyon Home.

Additional accommodation options are available east of the park, in the town of Tropic.

BEYOND BRYCE

Bryce Canyon is one of the top places to visit in Utah and a highlight of traveling through the American West. The iconic Utah park is hyperbolic in its beauty and extraordinary in its delicacy.

But Bryce doesn’t stand alone. A handful of noteworthy Utah state parks lie nearby—including Kodachrome Basin and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes. If you have time, it is worth exploring the state parks, venturing into the remote reaches of Grand Staircase-Escalante, and driving the scenic Highway 12 to Capitol Reef.

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Bryce National Park’s famed colorful spires and rock arches are among the planet’s most exquisite geological sculptures.

For millions of years, water has shaped this rugged landscape through a cycle of freezing and melting and freezing and melting. The photogenic fairyland is a direct result of winter’s harsh conditions.

Bryce Canyon is one of the the world’s best examples of geology in action. The Paunsaugunt Plateau’s temperature extremes have carved a landscape that is continually in flux—creating an ever-changing canvas of nature’s finest artwork.

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Southern Utah is a land of hyperbolic beauty and awe-inspiring desert scenery. Boasting glorious red rock formations and chiseled canyons, it is a destination that is at once dazzling, unique, and otherworldly. 

Utah’s national parks understandably get much of the attention. After all, they are among the most geologically fascinating areas in the United States.

But southern Utah’s beauty isn’t limited to the grandeur of Zion, the delicacy of Arches, or the ruggedness of Canyonlands. In the shadow of Utah’s national parks, a handful of state parks lie scattered about the rose-colored desert. 

While they may not boast the renown of the Mighty 5, Utah’s state parks are often no less impressive. 

MUST-VISIT SOUTHERN UTAH STATE PARKS

A bulk of Utah’s state parks can be found near the Arizona border—amidst a jumble of national parks, national monuments, and BLM land.

These parks showcase the state’s natural splendor and offer a plethora of recreation opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers, photographers, and adventurers.

In total, Utah has 43 state parks. An annual Utah state parks pass costs $75 for in-state residents and $150 for out-of-state travelers. Individual entrance fees generally range from $10-20 per vehicle. 

          
SNOW CANYON STATE PARK

Snow Canyon State Park is a 7,400-acre sampler of southwest Utah’s most famous land features. Within its canyon walls, it boasts easy access to hiking trails, subterranean lava tubes, narrow slot canyons, and shifting sand dunes. 

Though actual snow occasionally blankets the fiery landscape on chilly winter days, the park is not named after frozen precipitation. Snow Canyon got its name from Mormon pioneers Lorenzo and Erastus Snow. The area became a state park in 1958, and has since been a favorite destination among rock climbers and cyclists. 

Snow Canyon’s proximity to St George makes it a popular getaway destination in southern Utah. It is within arm’s reach of a mid-sized town, but feels worlds away from civilization. 

In Snow Canyon’s scenic valley, streaks of red and white sandstone swirl like melted ice cream. Along the park’s trails, ebony lava rock litters the landscape like charred logs in a blazing fire.

The 1.2-mile Petrified Dunes Trail showcases some of park’s most enticing landmarks. It features remarkable Navajo sandstone formations, subterranean tunnels, and jaw-dropping vistas over the canyon. 

Though it lies in the shadow of nearby Zion National Park, Snow Canyon holds its own among southern Utah’s epic red rock landscapes.

CORAL PINK SAND DUNES STATE PARK

Unlike some of Utah’s other state parks, there are no established hiking trails that criss-cross the warm-hued landscape. 

Instead—as with the coastal dunes in Oregon and White Sands in New Mexico—the area is best explored by simply meandering around the ever-shifting sand sea. 

We visited the coral-hued dunes at the crack of dawn, before they filled with ATVs and sand boarders. I’d read somewhere that the state park can be a noisy place to visit due to its popularity with dune buggies.

In the quiet of the morning hours, however, we found ourselves alone in the undulating red expanse. 

It was nothing short of magical. 

SAND HOLLOW STATE PARK

Sometimes, nature creates a display of epic proportions. Other times, it is humankind’s engineering over nature that puts on the most enticing of shows. 

At Sand Hollow State Park near St George, a human-made reservoir has created a recreational haven for water sports enthusiasts. In summer months, it provides an escape from the area’s searing heat. In winter, it is a place that allows for serenity and quiet contemplation.

I imagine that Sand Hollow looks like a mini version of Lake Powell, with its red rocks contrasting against clear blue water. 

Dan and I visited Sand Hollow following a vehicle breakdown that upended our plans. The small Utah state park was never part of our original American Southwest itinerary. 

But when we found ourselves stuck in St George and waiting for a vehicle fix, we reached out to a friend who was familiar with the area. He suggested we spend the remaining hours of our day at Sand Hollow. 

We heeded his advice and soaked in views over the lake at sunset—as a warm glow lit up the surrounding rocks in effervescent shades of orange and pink. 

Admittedly, Sand Hollow is best enjoyed in warmer months. It has a beach, a swimming area, and plenty of space for paddling or boating. When we visited, the temperatures were certainly too cold for taking a dip. 

Yet nevertheless, we enjoyed walking around the reservoir’s perimeter, photographing Sand Hollow’s rock islands, and watching the sunset as it illuminated the area’s red rock formations. 

KODACHROME BASIN STATE PARK

When the National Geographic Society traveled to the photogenic basin south in Bryce in 1948, its members found themselves struck by the area’s colorful sandstone chimneys. They named the area Kodachrome Flat, after the brand of Kodak film known for its vibrant color rendition.

Kodachrome Basin State Park lies 26 miles southeast of Bryce Canyon National Park, along Utah’s achingly beautiful Highway 12. The park is most renowned for its dozens of delicate sandstone chimneys— some nearly 170ft tall—that reach toward Utah’s cloudless skies.

Dan and I spent a morning in Kodachrome Basin, following our sunrise visit to Bryce. With limited time in the area, we chose to hike the scenic Angel’s Palace Trail for aerial views over the park’s unique landforms. 

Angel’s Palace is among the most beautiful short hikes in Kodachrome State Park. Other popular trails include the 1.5 mile Grand Parade and the 3 mile Panorama Trail. 

Following our scenic walk, Dan and I continued along a spur road, to Chimney Rock. 

The towering rock column is one of the top places to visit in Kodachrome Basin. It is the tallest of the park’s 67 chimneys.

Notice how small Dan looks in comparison. 

Kodachrome Basin has more of these rock spires than anywhere else in the world. So far, geologists are unsure about how the chimneys formed. Differing theories suggest that the columns are either remnants of ancient springs, or pathways created by earthquakes.

With my own limited geology knowledge, I really can’t say what causes the area to look the way it does. 

One thing is for sure, though; Kodachrome Basin certainly  lives up to its name. 

GOBLIN VALLEY STATE PARK

Goblin Valley State Park is an iconic landscape in southern Utah that lies just north of Capitol Reef National Park’s Cathedral District. Aptly named for its thousands of goblin-like formations, the unique state park looks like the backdrop to a magical fantasy novel.

Though a few trails lead down to the valley floor, the area is best enjoyed when wandering aimlessly. 

Goblin Valley’s stunted hoodoos formed as a result of eroding sandstone. In some spots, the rock formations are close together and produce a maze-like playground ideal for exploration.

I presume that Goblin Valley would be a fantastic place to bring kids. I can only imagine how much I would have loved scrambling around the park as a child. 

Dan and I only had about half an hour to explore the Goblin Valley. Shortened winter daylight hours and an unexpected number of photo stops along Highway 12 meant that we had limited time to hike through the area’s peculiar hoodoos. 

Still, we enjoyed our short visit to Goblin Valley State Park. The otherworldly landscape of melting stone mushrooms is playfully photogenic and just plain fun. 

DEAD HORSE POINT STATE PARK

Dead Horse Point State Park overlooks a scenic U-shaped bend in the Colorado River. Located just off Highway 313, the park boasts views of rugged canyon walls and the distant snow-draped La Sal Mountains.

The tiny state park packs a lot of punch. In addition to being one of Utah’s most photographed landmarks, Dead Horse Point has been the setting for numerous movies—including parts of Mission Impossible II, Need for Speed, and Thelma & Louise. 

The park got its name from local legend. According to folklore, cowboys once used the land as a natural corral for wild mustangs. In the inhospitable and rugged terrain, the horses often died of thirst and exposure. 

Dan and I chose to visit the state park at sunrise, as a warm glow drenched the cliffs and revealed nuanced layers of rock. Sunrise is one of the most beautiful times to visit Dead Horse Point. I hear sunset can be equally enchanting. 

I’m not entirely sure why Dead Horse Point State Park isn’t a part of Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky district. The state park lies only a few miles from the national park’s entrance. Scenery-wise, it is also quite similar.

Nonetheless, the state park is well worth shelling out an extra $20 to visit. It is among the most beautiful state parks in Utah and should not be missed when traveling around the American Southwest. 

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When it comes to dramatic geology, southern Utah is well endowed. Its chiseled red rock landscapes house a dizzying assortment of stunning scenic areas and sweeping vistas. 

Almost every Utah road trip includes visits to the Mighty 5. And for good reason. Utah’s national parks are among the most spectacular in the world. 

But travelers with a little bit more time would be remiss to skip the oft-overlooked state parks. 

Because the state parks in Utah are far more deserving than the recognition they often receive.

And with their flaming red rock, delicate spires and weathered canyons, the dazzling red rock areas are nothing if not unique. 

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Valley of Fire State Park may be only 50 miles from downtown Las Vegas, but it feels world’s away from the city’s casino-flanked strip. Throughout the park, the stillness of nature replaces a constant whirl of slot machines, and age-old rocks tell the stories of those who once called the area home. 

The Valley of Fire lies amidst a seemingly endless expanse of parched grey rock. Covering nearly 46,000 acres of the Mojave Desert, the state park is a place where Nevada’s barren landscape puts on a dramatic and colorful display. Its orange and pink Aztec Sandstone erupts from the ground, engulfing the arid earth in an exhibit of mesmerizing hues. At dawn and dusk, it appears to be catch fire. Hence, the park’s name.

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN THE VALLEY OF FIRE 

Scenery-wise, the Valley of Fire bears a closer semblance to the national parks and state parks in Utah than it does to its surrounding Nevada environs. Its warm-colored sandstone formations are similar to those found throughout the American Southwest—from Capitol Reef to Sedona, and from Zion to Goblin Valley. 

Though the Valley of Fire is small with respect to the parks in nearby Utah and Arizona, it is teeming with things to do and see. The red rock playground boasts photogenic viewpoints, meandering hiking trails, ancient pictographs, and curious rock formations. 

VALLEY OF FIRE VIEWPOINTS AND ATTRACTIONS

The Valley of Fire’s scenic drive follows two main arteries through the state park. One—Valley of Fire Road—connects the park’s western and eastern entrances. Near the visitor center, a perpendicular offshoot (Mouse’s Tank)  heads north to the start of the White Domes trailhead.

The entire drive through the Valley of Fire reveals a landscape drenched in saturated color tones. If you are visiting as a day trip from Las Vegas and only have a few hours in the park, a number of roadside attractions give a sense of the area’s history and geology. 

With more time, the Valley of Fire’s hiking trails reveal a land of iconic photography locations and little-known gems. 

ATLATL ROCK

Dan and I began our Valley of Fire day trip with a brief visit to Atlatl Rock. The towering flank of sandstone sports a collection of petroglyphs that date back millennia.

A short metal staircase leads visitors to the petroglyph-viewing platform. The up-close vantage point reveals illustrations of people, animals, and symbols. Toward the top of rock, horizontal carvings depict an atlatl and a spear.

Atlatl Rock is one of the top places to visit in Nevada’s Valley of Fire. It lies along a short scenic loop, near the park’s western entrance.  

ARCH ROCK 

Arch Rock is among the Valley of Fire’s most notable sandstone formations. Its natural bridge formed as wind and rain slowly washed away the materials holding its sand grains together. The rock weakened over time, creating the natural arch that stands today.

Eventually, Arch Rock will collapse after growing too large for its supports. Such is the story of the American Southwest’s sandstone arches—a story that is told time and time again in this ever-shifting landscape.

Though it doesn’t compare in scale and shape to some of the natural stone bridges in Arches National Park, Arch Rock is nonetheless a worthwhile place to visit within the Valley of Fire.

THE BEEHIVES

The Beehives sit alongside the state park’s main thoroughfare, beyond Atlatl Rock. They rise from the ground like tall stacks of pancakes and are among the Valley of Fire’s most eye-catching roadside attractions. 

The Beehives are a fine example of geologic cross bedding. Much like rings on a tree, the Beehives act as a geological calendar of sorts—with their grooved lines representing layers of silt that have been deposited at different times throughout history.

A short path winds through the area. It is a wonderful place to get out of the car and scramble around for a bit. 

FIRE CANYON

After stopping briefly by the roadside attractions near Valley of Fire’s western end, Dan and I continued up Mouse’s Tank Road, toward the White Domes trailhead. About halfway along the road, another tentacle veered off toward Fire Canyon. We made the quick detour and stopped briefly by one of the most impressive vistas in the state park.

In the Fire Canyon, erosion has chiseled a landscape of red rock spires, weathered chasms, and jagged boulder piles.

Silica Dome is the most prominent landmark in the area. The dome’s change from white to red occurs where iron in the rock produces a rust-like stain.

ELEPHANT ROCK 

Like Arch Rock, Elephant Rock is a natural sandstone formation that makes for a quick photo opportunity. The iconic attraction lies at Valley of Fire’s eastern end, just off the main road. Due to its elephantine shape, it is one of the top things to see in the state park. 

Though it is entirely possibly to view Elephant Rock from the road, a short hiking trail encircles the area and leads to panoramas of the surrounding desertscape. 

BEST VALLEY OF FIRE HIKES

While the scenic drive is a fantastic way to admire the Valley of Fire at a glance, the best way to experience the park is on foot. 

Over the course of two visits to the state park, Dan and I had the opportunity to explore some of Valley of Fire’s best hiking trails. The park’s crisscrossing pathways traverse the red rock landscape and lead to some of the most beautiful vistas in area.

Must-do hikes include the Fire Wave, Pink Canyon, and White Domes. 

THE FIRE WAVE

The Fire Wave is the state park’s signature landmark and a destination that attracts photographers and hikers in droves. Like a mini version of Arizona’s Wave, it features sedimentary rock draped in a striped cloak of white, pink, and red. Yet, unlike the Wave, it doesn’t require a lottery to visit. 

In fact, the Fire Wave is downright easily accessible. It is the centerpiece of a 1.5 mile roundtrip hiking trail.

During the late evening hours, sunlight casts a warm glow over the landmark and illuminates it in irresistibly colorful swirls. 

Unfortunately, due to the hike’s popularity, it can be difficult to photograph the wave without capturing the myriad of other people who are trying to do the same. 

  THE PINK CANYON

Hiking the Pink Canyon is among the top things to do in Valley of Fire. The canyon is not marked on maps, nor do park rangers freely disseminate its location. Similar to Samuel H Boardman’s Secret Beach, it is a location that is both highly photogenic and somewhat elusive. 

Luckily—while the official park map did its best to conceal the Pink Canyon’s location—Google Maps and Maps.me both came to our rescue. 

I’m not exactly sure why there are no signs indicating the state park’s pastel-colored canyon. My best guess is that, since there are no authorized parking lots near the trailhead, park rangers want to discourage people from leaving their cars along the side of the road.

The best way to access the Pink Canyon legally is via the Fire Wave Trail. The pastel-colored canyon lies just south of the wave, near the state park’s main road. 

THE WHITE DOMES

The White Domes Trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in Valley of Fire State Park.

In 1966, the area acted as a backdrop for a movie called The Professionals. The western, starring Lee Marvin, was allegedly responsible for the construction of a road leading to the White Domes.

Today, remnants of the movie set’s small hacienda remain near the trailhead.

The White Domes Hike is a quick loop that highlights the diversity of the state park’s geologic landforms. The mile-long trail boasts sweeping desert vistas, a slot canyon, and towering rock walls. 

MOUSE’S TANK

A half-mile trail to Mouse’s Tank leaves from the Petroglyph Canyon parking lot. I vaguely remember hiking the trail as a teenager and seeing a wall of rock art along the way. 

On our most recent visit to the park, Dan and I had to prioritize our hiking itinerary due to winter’s shortened daylight hours. Thus, we didn’t have the chance to corroborate my childhood memories of the trail.  

CAMPING AT VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK

Valley of Fire State Park lies less than an hour from Nevada’s commercial and tourism hub. Its proximity to Las Vegas makes it a feasible day trip destination. 

For travelers who want a little more time in the park, camping is a fantastic option. Valley of Fire has two established campgrounds—Atlatl and Arch Rock—that are suitable for both tents and RVs. Additional primitive camping alternatives are available on the large swaths of BLM land that surround the park. 

For travelers who aren’t keen on sleeping outdoors, the nearest hotel rooms can be found at Lake Mead’s North Shore Inn and, of course, in Las Vegas. 

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Las Vegas is one of America’s most touristy cities. Each year, millions flock to its casino-lined strip to gamble, eat at overpriced buffets, and pretend they are in Egypt, Rome, or New York. 

With its rowdy streets and penchant for all things artificial, Las Vegas has never been my type of place. 

Instead, you’ll find me 50 miles away, contemplating the seemingly impossible color of Valley of Fire’s orangey rocks. 

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