Bryce Canyon 1

We woke up to the sun coming in the windows around 6 am. Chris was already out of the cabin and walking around, so we packed up to leave. As we opened the door to set the bags out on the porch a cute chipmunk scampered inside. Jackson asked if he could pet it since it reminded him of Stormy, our gerbil. Realizing that might be a bad idea, we shooed him/her out and got on the road by 7:30 am.
As we left Grand Canyon, we observed some bison grazing and a bunch of wild turkeys pecking along the side of the road. A stunning view of the edge of the red and orange plateau welcomed us to our next vista, Bryce Canyon National Park.

Leaving Grand Canyon, Arizona and reentering Utah.

The boys and I enjoyed the Wildlife Museum just outside the Park.

This was our busiest day so far. We were at Bryce over the weekend and there were hordes of visitors...had to wait a bit to take this photo.

Jackson liked this exhibit...it reminded him of Stormy.

Our first stop in Bryce was at the end of the park...Rainbow Point. Packed with tour buses and cars. We had a delicious picnic and escaped the crowds by hiking the 1 mile Bristlecone Trail.

Great views without the crowds...just hike a few minutes and they're gone.

Original lodge from 1925. We ate dinner and listened to 2 educational programs here...one led by a young intern starting college in one week. We stayed in newly renovated cabins very close to the rim, similar to those at Grand Canyon. No air conditioning and morning temps around 50.