If Bryce Canyon is spectacular, Zion is majestic. Sheer red-rock walls rise up on either side of the deep river canyon, forming a tableau of shapes, from "hive" formations to towering mesas. I especially enjoyed sitting on the grass near the lodge, savoring the contrast between the emerald lawn with its shady trees and the steep cliffs looming overhead.
Zion is a user-friendly park, with a helpful staff and great little buses running up and down the length of the canyon as well as into Springdale, the small town adjacent to the park. The buses make numerous stops at the trailheads.
The trails themselves are great, and there is a wonderful variety of them. I especially enjoyed the Watchman's Trail, a moderate hike that gradually ascends from the canyon floor to a point overlooking the town. This is a particularly nice one to take in the early morning before the sun gets too hot. The Emerald Pools trails lead under a waterfall and then divide into several different levels to explore. I loved the lower trail, which runs along a rise just above the river and treetops. Also very pleasant are the Riverside Walk and the Po'Rus Trail, which meanders peacefully along the valley floor. More intrepid hikers can try the steeper, longer trails to Observation Point or Angel's Landing. The latter has a heart-stopping section of trail, with only a chain to hang onto along the side of a narrow trail over a steep drop - this was not for me, but those who ascend this trail say the view is spectacular and worth the effort.