Visiting South Utah-

We flew into St. George from LAX on a non-stop direct flight (only about 90 minutes) and proceeded to rent a car (Alamo had the best pricing/deal), which is the way to get around.  The first night we spent in St. George before leaving in the morning and driving north. Check out the St. George Wildlife museum located right in town for a nice part day family friendly activity. We first checked out Zion Kolob (the other entrance to Zion Canyon and lesser known/populated area).  There are some incredible views and more information about the area/park is available at the visitor’s center.  There is a $25 fee to enter valid for up to 7 days and you are allowed to enter the main entrance as well.  From there, we were on our way to Bryce Canyon but since there was a recent snowfall, we stopped at Brian Head Ski Resort pretty much on the way to Bryce.  It was a beautiful day and fantastic for mid-April skiing as there was quite a bit of new snow.  The resort is very affordable and well rounded for a variety of skiers.  The runs were fun as I explored both sides of the resort.  It was a nice way to spend the afternoon despite the resort not having any high-speed lifts.  It was not crowded at all and I recommend Brian Head for a visit during a trip to South Utah and stay at the beautiful lodging at the resort, as it was very reasonable and convenient. www.grandlodgebrianhead.com  We ate at the Lift Bar and Patio (the roasted chicken was amazing!) before we toured their facility (the Red Leaf Spa). From there we headed to Bryce and Zion where you can read more below.

Bryce Canyon– As you can see by some of the photos, this place is the most unique place while there is nothing like this anywhere else in the world. Erosion has carved colorful Claron limestones into thousands of spires, fins, arches and mazes. Collectively called "hoodoos," these unique formations are whimsically arranged and tinted with colors too numerous and subtle to name.  There are a variety of hikes and you can also see some incredible sight seeing from many of the driving spots in the park (also a $25 fee for up to 7 days).  Drive to Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration and Bryce for the best viewpoints. Hike a canyon trail or stroll along the rim. Check at the Visitor Center for current trail conditions. Other options include Drive to Rainbow Point (18 miles one way) and stop at the 13 viewpoints on your return trip. Check at the Visitor Center for current road conditions and closures. Attend a ranger-guided activity (available during summer months). Snowshoe or cross-country ski a designated trail on the plateau top. Rental equipment is available outside the park.  The hike we went on with our 2-yr old daughter on my back was called the Queens Garden. You descend downward till you get so close to the rocks/formations during this 2-mile roundtrip hike.  The way up was quite the workout as it was a tad muddy but well worth the adventure as we saw some incredible landscape.  Take a drive up highway 12 to explore more of South Utah’s fantastic scenery and other national parks.  A few miles up the road is Mossy Cave, a fun ½ mile roundtrip hike leading you up to a waterfall and cave with icicles.

  

Our biggest highlight was visiting the Bryce Wildlife Adventure especially the Museum full of wildlife, fish, seashells, butterflies and more.  They also have ATV and Bike rentals/tours.  The Bryce Museum is located near Bryce Canyon National Park, one of the most scenic areas in the country. The exhibits focus on wildlife from all over the world. In addition to featuring wildlife exhibits, they also have artifacts from ancient Indians – like the Anasazi and Piute – that lived in this area. The exhibits are excellent resources for learning about natural history and wildlife.
The Museum is centrally located on Byway 12, considered one of the best scenic roadways by Car and Driver Magazine. The location is the ideal hub for day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome State Park, and the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. Come and visit this incredible area and museum for a wildlife adventure you will never forget.  The owner Robert Driedonks compiled pretty much everything himself and runs the museum with his wife Terri.  This place is NOT TO MISS as many people pass by and don’t know how great it is.  You can go outside and feed the deer as well.  This is a treasure that Robert worked most of his life on.  You cannot believe the work and effort he has put into the museum as it is awe-inspiring. www.brycewildlifeadventure.com

Zion Canyon- Enormous/Gigantic/Heavenly & Beautiful are words that come to mind.  We started with the Observation Point hike, which had some of the most remarkable views you will ever see of the valley/canyon.  There is a free shuttle that you can take to any of the stops in the park which allows you to get on and off at anytime while you explore a selection of areas/hikes/views.  There are a variety of easy to strenuous hikes.  For the easier hikes, try the lower and mid Emerald pools located at the Zion Lodge stop or Weeping Rock hike.  For the extreme adventure hike, try the approx. 5-mile roundtrip Angels Landing Hike. A steep uphill starts your journey and if you are afraid of heights or not feeling up to it, stop at the Scout area to avoid any serious issues.  If you decide to head up to Angels Landing as I made it part of the way but ended up getting too scared and tired so I turned around, you must hold onto a metal chain as you walk up a slanted hill with falls that can lead to death.  It was not my cup of tea, but those who did it said they had the most incredible views ever.  I did see some great views anyways from up there and part of the west rim without feeling the pressure.  Good luck and bring plenty of water, great hiking shoes and energy.

  

Dining:

Canyon Pines in Bryce Canyon for delicious home made Soup and Pies. They have other fantastic dishes including fresh trout, meats and sandwiches. Do not miss the Soup or Pie as those are their specialties!www.brycecanyonmotel.com/restaurant.php 

 

Zion/Springdale-

Parallel 88– This fine dining restaurant in the town of Springdale (located right outside Zion National Park) was the most upscale place around and had excellent food to show for.  Jefe was the manager/waiter and he was a consummate professional.  His recommendations of executive chef Jeff Crosland’s menu were right on. The appetizers were amazing and don’t miss out on the Ahi Tuna or Lamb Shank (his signature dish) for your entree.  The place was very cozy and quaint with a beautiful fireplace and décor. There is a nice selection of desserts, a full bar and wine list to make your meal complete.  They are also open for breakfast and there is a kid’s menu with tasty nice sized options including chicken, veggies and pasta, not your run-of-the mill kid’s fare.  You can see more at www.paralleleighty-eightrestaurant.com

 

Spotted Dog- From the outside this place looks like just a simple café, but don’t let that fool you as this place delivers some of the most delicious meals and outstanding service that we have ever had. We loved the casual, yet elegant atmosphere and delicious food. We enjoyed the best fresh Red Trout we had during our visit here.  There is a kid’s menu with tasty nice sized options including chicken The spacious dining room overlooks a mountain and the room is filled with art to savor. We would like to point out that our server, James who is also a manager, made it worth the visit alone.  We highly recommend the Spotted Dog.  They have unique specialty appetizers including fantastic flatbread and olive oil dip, pita and hummus, entrees such as their famous meatloaf, ravioli with ricotta cheese and pear plus a selection of desserts, full bar and wines.  They also offer a breakfast buffet so keep an eye out for the Spotted Dog one or two bus stops from the entrance to Zion Park.

www.zion-national-park-flanigans.com/Dog/index.html

 

 

Lodging in Southern Utah-

The Marriott TownPlace Suites

We flew in to St. George one evening and needed a place to stay for just one night before heading to Bryce Canyon and then to Zion Canyon. We chose the Marriott TownPlace Suite because we knew we would get a clean, spacious room, free breakfast, and a suite for a little more breathing room. The front desk staff was friendly, the breakfast had a lot to offer, and there was an outdoor, heated pool and hot tub. It was just the right spot for a one-night stay before heading off on our adventures. For more information: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sguts-towneplace-suites-st-george/

 

Best Western Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

If you are looking for luxury and convenience while visiting Bryce Canyon try the Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel. It is very close to the entrance to Bryce Canyon and is the newest lodging facility in Bryce Canyon City. The rooms are luxuriously decorated, spacious suites. There are 164 guest rooms in two four-story towers. There is a heated outdoor swimming pool, an outdoor hot-tub, a full work-out room, a business center and conference rooms for the business traveler. The hotel is affiliated with Ruby’s Motel located across the street so you can share their amenities including their indoor pool. A full, hot breakfast buffet is included each morning. We met so many nice people and shared stories and tips about Bryce Canyon all while enjoying our breakfast. The staff was exceptionally helpful and friendly at the front desk. The lounge is comfy with a huge fireplace and cathedral ceilings. One morning some teenaged boys were playing their guitars while guests gathered to listen. It is a large hotel with a cozy feeling. The rooms are new and decorated with warm tones. We slept so well in the large king sized bed after soaking in the jetted bathtub. During the summer season (May 1- October 1) there is a Cowboy dinner show at Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill right next door within walking distance. They serve a 14oz rib eye, fresh broiled salmon, baked chicken or pulled pork BBQ meal, including cowboy beans, Dutch oven potatoes, corn bread, dessert and beverage. Then enjoy an authentic western music show. For more information on The Grand visit:

http://www.brycecanyongrand.com

 

The Majestic View Lodge

The first thing that we were struck by when pulling up to the Majestic View Lodge was the amazing view. It truly is majestic. The lodge is located at the southern end of Springdale, about 3 miles from the entrance to Zion Canyon. The location of the lodge gives it a unique perspective unlike any other hotel. The views from the balconies and the dining room within the Lodge are breathtaking. The colorful rocks from the canyon walls seem to lift right out of the property. Because we were traveling with our two year old the second thing that struck us is the Wildlife Museum inside the lodge. The bears, bobcats, moose, rabbits, goats and much more, entranced our daughter. This was a children’s paradise! The animals are within arms reach without glass surrounding them so the temptation to touch was great, however it made for a great up-close wildlife experience unlike any other we had experienced.  We spent a lot of time in the museum each day, especially while waiting for our food in the dining room. There is also a very large gift shop where we spent a great deal of time as well.  Our suite was beautifully filled with rustic aspen furniture, a great big king sized log bed, a kitchen, a deep, spa-jet bath tub and a great balcony to watch the stars at night or gaze off at the canyon during the day. There is an outdoor heated pool and a year round hot tub and a laundry room, which is nice after a day of hiking the trails. We enjoyed our breakfast each morning in the lodge. The view from the huge glass windows is worth the price of the meal. For more info: http://www.majesticviewlodge.com