Queen's Garden Trail, UT

This trail starts from the Sunrise Point Observation parking lot in Bryce Canyon National Park. It's touted as the easiest one into the canyon. Once you arrive at the parking lot, follow the signs for the Sunrise Observation Area. Past the Horse Trail, there is a sign pointing up a hill that points to both the trail and the observation deck. The trail is well marked and easy to follow.

You quickly descend down into Bryce Amphitheater on a well-maintained trail. Along the way, you will see breathtaking views of hoodoos and a special one that looks like Queen Victoria, hence the name of the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for several windows in the rocks and miniature arches. Some trees that have grown on top of the rock formations are dwarfed and look a lot like bonsai trees.

It took us twice the time to get down as it did to come up because of all of the views and picture opportunities. The hike out can be difficult for beginners but is not very hard for experienced hikers. There are a couple of sets of switchbacks along the trail that account for most of the elevation change. For those people used to hiking in Arizona, the air here can be thinner than you are used to. Be careful and take your time so that you do not get lightheaded.

The trail meets up with the Navajo Trail near the very end. The Navajo Trail begins in the Sunset Observation Area, so the hike can be made into a loop with the Navajo and Rim trails.

Be very cautious of going towards the edge as the rock formations are not very strong. One publication I read said that the foot and handholds are not strong enough to hold a chipmunk. The terrain is very prone to erosion. You will see the effects along the trail.

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2009-03-09 iheartmonster