Utah is home to some of the most impressive geological formations found in the western United States. This is particularly true for Bryce Canyon, the state’s shining jewel. While there are many trails to roam the region, a favorite that can be tackled by anyone is the Queens Gardens Trail.
Queens Garden
Extending just 1.8 miles round trip, the Queens Garden Trail descends 320 feet into the natural amphitheaters of Bryce Canyon. The Garden Trail offers a magnificent view of the aforementioned hoodoos, spires of sedimentary and softer rock, created over years of frost weathering and stream erosion. Minerals that are deposited in the various types of rock over the years contribute to the layered appearance of the colored rocks. The abundance of these is what comprises the “garden” of Queens Garden. The largest collection of these rocks and minerals form Queen Victoria.
Queens Garden Trial
While the Queens Garden Trail is open all year, access to the trail can be quite restricted in winter due to snowfall. The trail is wide and sandy, which makes easy going for young children or elderly folks. The entire hike takes about 2.5 hours, although some report a longer hike, due to the photographic scenery. This trail sits in full sun, so be sure to apply sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing to avoid overexposure to the sun. Bring an ample supply of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike as there is no potable water station available.
Many hikers swear by beginning this hike at daybreak to catch the stunning effect of the red rock becoming ever more bright as the sun rises higher, or doing it late enough in the day that the sunset creates a similar effect, but no matter what time of day you choose to hike the Queens Garden Trail, you will not leave underwhelmed!
Related articles: Camper’s Guide: Midway Geyser Basin, Wyoming or Camper’s Guide: Tallulah Gorge, Georgia
Featured Image from Leslie Cross/Unsplash
