Cascade of colors

Utah’s Bryce Canyon dazzles with fantastical shapes, hues

are common, but they usually don’t last long.

Wildlife in the park include deer, elk, ringtail cats, mountain lions, bobcats, gray foxes, jackrabbits and cottontails. Also look at the overlooks for peregrine falcons and golden eagles soaring above, and in the forested areas and sagebrush, look for Clark’s nutcrackers, Steller’s jays and wild turkeys.

Currently all roads, trails and viewpoints are open, including backcountry trails. The visitor center and bookstore are open daily (with limited occupancy), from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., yet the theater is closed. Camping is the best way to go in this region and in the park itself, Sunset Campground is open, by reservation at recreation.gov. North Campground is expected to open this month after a paving project is finished. It has 99 sites and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A variety of other camping choices are available nearby, including at Ruby’s Inn, located a mile from the entrance of the park, which has an excellent RV Park and Campground. Find it at rubysinn.com.

Cellphone service is spotty at best. Restrooms are open, but be sure to bring your own wipes, hand sanitizer and face protection. Park only in designated parking areas, maintain social distancing and avoid crowded overlooks. Always check the park’s website before setting out, as things can change on a daily basis. For up-to-date information on the park, call 435-834-5322 or visit nps.gov/brca.

Deborah Wall Las Vegas Review-Journal The 35,835-acre Bryce Canyon National Park, established in 1928, lies on the eastern rim of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in south-central Utah.

Chase Stevens Las Vegas Review-Journal Bryce is home to an extraordinary landscape filled with hoodoos, spires, pinnacles, nooks and crannies.