We arrived at Bryce Canyon in the late evening, so we camped outside the park at Ruby’s Inn. The following morning we were up early to forage for a site in the park. We were extremely lucky and found a wonderful campsite right at the edge of the canyon with great access to the trail running along the edge. The weather was not particularly co-operative during our stay but dodging the rain and hail and snow (!) we were able to see some spectacular views.

This shot of a isolated hoodoo was taken a short walk up the rim from our camp site. You can see the limestone cap rock which protects the softer (also limestone) rock underneath. The rapid erosion of the softer rock combined with 'tougher' layers produce the hoodoo spires as the canyon walls erode over time.This is an example of a 'pot hole' at the side of the canyon that eventually punches a hole through the canyon wall.Here is a fabulous view from inspiration point. Our campsite is just beyond the canyon wall ridge visible in the distance on the left. Boat Mesa is visible top left. To the right of the boat mesa and distinctly pink in colour is the Aquarius plateau. The Henry Mountains loom in the distant horizon.

 

Capitol Reef National Park 1995
Zion National Park 1995