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SALT LAKE CITY — Nestled in the southwestern portion of the state is one of Utah’s “Mighty 5” National Parks. Known for its geological structures called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon attracts thousands of tourists from all around the world each year to view and experience all that the park has to offer.
Recently, my family had an opportunity to take a trip to Bryce Canyon for a race I was running. Not researching the park in its entirety, we figured we would do a lot of swimming at the hotel and maybe take the kids for a hike or two. Once we arrived, however, we soon found that there was much more than meets the eye — and that is saying a lot.
After three full days at the park, we didn’t even scratch the surface of what was available. And while we left the park filled with memories, we went reluctantly, promising to return soon.
If you are planning to take a trip to Bryce Canyon — and I hope you are — here are five family friendly activities to do during a stay.
- Go for one of the many walks or hikes available near and in the park. Our favorite was the “Mossy Cave” hike. This hike was easy for little legs to walk, but also allowed for cooling off in the river, seeing a really cool waterfall and experiencing some of the prettiest views around.If you are able to take a walk along the rim, I highly recommend it. No picture can capture what the eye can see when gazing over the miles of vibrant orange hues. It's truly a sight to behold.
- Venture on a horseback or carriage ride provided by Horseback Riding Adventures. With rides ranging from the novice to the experienced, the young child to the not-so-young, these guided adventures can take you above the rim and below, helping you experience the canyon just as the early settlers did.After your ride, you may just feel like dressing the part and can do so in their photo studio. With a wide variety of costumes and props, your kids are sure to enjoy this fun family activity.
- Experience the Bryce Canyon Rodeo. Held every Wednesday through Saturday during the summer months, the rodeo showcases local talent, bringing the small-town Utah feel to an international audience.Sitting in the audience, my children were all smiles when they saw kids of all ages riding sheep and barrel racing. Be prepared, though: you may have a youngin’ asking to take home a horse or two.
- Take advantage of one of the ranger-guided activities put on by the National Park Service. One such activity is the Junior Ranger Program. Children (and adults) can learn about the landscape, indigenous animals and the climate, to name a few.Deemed “a scientist’s laboratory and a child’s playground,” these activities have something for everyone, even a fussy 6-year-old.
- End your day with a real cowboy dinner show at Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill. With live music accompanied with gun-slinging, rope tricks and even a lady who can crack a mean whip, the whole family will be entertained the whole night through. And with your choice of meat, potatoes and beans, followed shortly by a couple’s slow dance, your bellies and hearts will be full by night’s end. Don’t forget to leave without a picture signed by one of the Bar G Wranglers. Your kids will be star-struck will want to learn how to play the fiddle (backward) — at least mine did.
If you are planning a trip to Bryce Canyon around mid-August, the Utah Symphony will be holding a free concert as part of its “Mighty 5” tour. With the backdrop of the canyon and natural amphitheater below, the acoustics are sure to be one of a kind.
For more activities to do at your visit to Bryce Canyon, go to nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit.
Arianne Brown is a mother of six who loves running the beautiful trails around Utah. For more articles by Arianne, "like" her Facebook page, follow her on Twitter @arimom5, or visit her blog, timetofititin.com. If you have a story to share, contact her at ariannebrown1@gmail.com.
