Wednesday, April 23, 2014, Move to Bryce Canyon National Park with Kate, Bryce, UT

Moving day again. This was Katie's first time traveling in the motorhome. We left Manti, UT, around 9:30 and headed for Bryce Canyon National Park, Bryce, UT. Actually, our next stop was Ruby's Inn RV Park just outside the entrance to the park. It was only 148.2 miles (7,668.8 trip/67,149.9 total), but there was a lot of beautiful scenery along Utah's Highway 89. I think Katie enjoyed motorhome travel. She took a lot of pictures of the alien landscape (it doesn't look much like Georgia!)

Along Highway 12, we passed through the Dixie National Forest and Red Canyon. A large and very convenient pull-out allowed a quick stop for a few pictures. 

Setting up camp early in the afternoon allowed a quick trip into the park. We started with the Bryce Visitor's Center. They had exhibits touching on the geology and wildlife of the park, past and present.

Conditions were very different in Bryce's past.  This skull is 6 feet long!  I'll stick with the here and now!  

Sunset Point is probably the most popular spot in the park for a good reason. The view is incredible! The iconic hoodoos are arrayed below the canyon rim in all their colorful glory.

We hiked down the very steep Navajo Trail to get a better look at the famous Thor's Hammer. There were a lot of other features that really needed names. I wonder if the Rangers would appreciate our suggestions?

When we looked over the edge and saw the trail winding down into a slot canyon, it seemed like a good time to head back up. This trail will be conquered another day!

We headed back into the park late to see the setting sunlight on the hoodoos. A herd of deer near the road refused to pose for us. When they saw the cameras they all turned to show us their backsides. I don't know what we could have done to offend them.

I'm not sure the setting sun provided any more color in the canyon, but Katie was certainly a more accommodating subject than those stubborn deer!

Just in case the coats, scarves and earmuffs didn't give it away, let me tell you it was cold! The wind gusting at 40 mph and temperatures in the low 30's combined to create a biting cold. Everyone was happy to head back to the warm coach for the rest of the evening!