Queens Garden-Bryce Canyon

This hotel was built for the overflow from Ruby's Best Western - which is the largest hotel in the area. It was clean but sparse - a bit more upscale than a Motel 6 but about as basic. The location was prime for all activities and the hotel sits just outside Bruce Canyon Park. If you are looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay that is centrally located, this will be suitable. If you want something with more ambiance - drive just a bit further into the Park and stay at Bryce Canyon Lodge.

The Lodge is rather rustic from the outside, but the restaurant is quite nice. There is a large fireplace in the center of the restaurant - the atmosphere is casually sophisticated. The menu was rather small but the choices are outstanding. Quite gourmet for an area of this size and the service was very gracious and we were well attended. In my opinion THE BEST place to eat in the area. The view from the restaurant is pure eye candy.

You will be astounded at the hiking choices within Bryce, including a relatively easy hike around the rim. The pure raw red spirals, pinnacles, and otherworldly beauty of this spot will draw you in. If you choose to hike into the canyon I suggest starting at Navajo Trail. Navajo Trail is a steep drop directly into the red rock caverns where you will be immediately absorbed by the terrain and deep natural nooks and crannies "compliments of mother nature." Once inside, the trail levels out and you will be on flatland for a mile plus. The scenery continues to awe you - and the red rocks are complemented by the bright green junipers and pinons. You will be greeted by a lot of wildlife, which has grown so accustomed to us humans that they actually beg for food. The climb out of the canyon will take you through Queens Garden. This is a garden of rock formations that take on almost a castle-like appeal. Once near the top, you can stop and peer over your shoulder at Thor's Hammer, one of the most photographed of the formations.

Sit on a log bench at the top and just breathe in the clean air and thank yourself for the trip. It’s simply enchanting!

Oh yes, and three times during the month - they have night hikes near full moon - NOT TO BE MISSED! Check on these at the Visitor's Center.