Day 4 (24-Sep-13) Zion NP - Bryce Canyon NP (192 miles)

Following ritual rude awakening at 06:00hrs we would have been on the road at 07:00hrs, but for usual 15 minute wait for Simon to complete ablutions, facial deep-pore cleansing routine and timeout for introspective self-admiration.  Armed with a Lemsip and drugs to keep my head cold at bay, we headed back to Zion NP and immediately diverted onto Zion Park Boulevard. After passing through the mile-long tunnel that provides access to the upper plateau we parked the car and hiked the Overlook Trial for more breathtaking views of Zion NP. Along the way we also spotted more Big Horn Sheep. 

 

We then continued to Bryce Canyon NP, stopping numerous times en route to take photos of the dramatic limestone and sandstone monoliths dominating the upper plateau. Once at Bryce we immediately headed for the Scenic Rim trial, which affords spectacular views of Bryce Canyon, a place where superlatives abound and other worldly terrain becomes the norm. Following a walk to Sunrise Point we then descended into the canyon, emerging at Sunset Point. We then headed back to the car, stopping first for quick snack at the Lodge, then drove on to Inspiration Point and Bryce Point for more spectacular views of the pinnacles in the canyon. 

 

Having visited this canyon 3 years ago, almost to the day, I was not sure if I would experience the same sense of awe and amazement at seeing this natural wonder. However, this time I was able to share the experience with my soul mate and a very close friend also. The weather on this visit was also much better suited, with sunny blue skies contrasting the ochre red sandstone dominating the base of the canyon. Simon, ebullient as ever, managed to superimpose himself on the vast majority of photographs, inventing a whole new catalogue of poses, some of them leading passers-by to question his sanity - and manhood.

 

We then continued by car to other vantage points along the ridge, ending at Yovimba Point. Along the way we encountered a small group of Pronghorn, the fastest land animal in the world over 1km. These antelope were completely unperturbed by our presence, no doubt due in part by the fact that hunting is prohibited inside park boundaries. At 9100ft Yovimba Point affords spectacular views across the shattered terrain, stretching all the way to the Grand Canyon, over 100 miles distant.  And to witness this vast landscape, with no one else present, and nothing but evening song from the many bird species present to break the silence, and the sun setting behind us, was a very, very, special moment.

 

Having duly imbibed Nature in all Her glory, we then headed for the park exit, stopping off at Ruby’s Inn for a sumptuous feast, washed down with copious wine and beer. What a wonderful day! And what better way to share it with others! What a special place!