Did you know that Yellowstone National Park, widely regarded as the World's first national park, was established in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant? He recognized the need to protect the pristine landscapes and unique geothermal features of Yellowstone, setting a precedent for conservation efforts across the country.
Over the decades, the National Park System expanded to include iconic parks such as Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Zion, each representing a diverse array of ecosystems and geological wonders. Today, the National Park System comprises over 400 sites, including national parks, monuments, preserves, and historic sites, collectively preserving millions of acres of wilderness and cultural heritage for the enjoyment and education of all.
On our RV trips we’ve spent time at both the South and North Rim of the Grand Canyon and what an amazing experience that was! Nothing prepares you for the stunning views, the mesas and the colors! It’s just mind blowing.
In contrast, we also visited Glacier National Park with its alpine meadows, lakes and waterfalls on our way to Canada. We drove the Going to the Sun Highway spotting mountain goats along the way!
Exploring Utah's National Parks
A. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is named after one of the Mormon pioneers who settled in the area in the 1850s. It is renowned for its unique geological formations known as hoodoos. These towering spires of rock create a surreal landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset when they are bathed in vibrant hues of orange and red. There are hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous treks into the canyon although we spent a lot of time sitting on the rim in awe of the view! Don't miss iconic viewpoints like Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point for panoramic vistas of this natural wonder.
B. Arches National Park
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Arches National Park, located about 5 miles from Moab, Utah, is famous for its stunning natural arches, spires, and rock formations. With over 2,000 arches scattered throughout the park, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. Delicate Arch, a natural free-standing arch, and Landscape Arch, the largest arch on the planet, are just two of the landmarks that we saw during our visit. We took a picnic lunch and spent the day marveling at the landscape.
C. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, divided into four distinct districts, offers a diverse array of landscapes, from towering mesas to deep river canyons. Each area has its own unique features and attractions, making it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Conclusion: Our stay in Moab and exploration of these three National Parks is one of the highlights of our National Park explorations. The stunning red rock formations, mesas, buttes, arches, hoodoos and other amazing geological features left us with some very special memories. We hope you, too, will choose to experience the allure of Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks in Utah.
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