If you have limited time, below are the four things I would prioritize in Utah and Arizona along with suggestions and tips!
Hoodoos in the Snow
Bryce Canyon is one of the most populated hoodoo locations in the world. Hoodoos are irregular columns of rocks formed by weather and erosion. These sandstone rocks sit in a natural amphitheater that create strange, otherworldly views. How can you top such a cool sight?
Hoodoos in the snow! The white dusting creates such a beautiful contrast to the red rocks, green pine trees and (hopefully) blue sky. In the winter, you can walk through the Navajo Loop trail to the Queen’s Garden to get a closer view of the hoodoos. Plan a trip after the snow to see this unique setting!
Delicate Arch at Sunset
Arches National Park is a memorable park due to its large number of natural sandstone arches. How did this happen? This park was molded from salt deposits over 300 million years ago. Erosion and water dissolved some of the salt pockets, eventually weakening the rock enough to crack – with just the top arches left.
Though these are beautiful any time of day, for a true experience hike to Delicate Arch an hour before sunset. In the winter the sun sets earlier, so you can plan a rewarding dinner after. It is a 3 mile roundtrip hike that leads to a steep sandstone bowl with the freestanding 52-foot Delicate Arch, and rewarding views of the park and La Sur mountains. On the way back, prepared hikers use headlamps and spikes (if there’s snow or ice) to return to the parking lot.
Kayaking to Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon tours are closed due to Covid. However, there is access to the slot canyon from the Lake Powell river. To do this, rent a kayak from Antelope Point Marina and prepare for, at the very least, a 5 hour excursion. Bring additional clothes and waterproof shoes, because you will get wet from the sit-on-top kayaks. The river is 3.5 miles long and you’ll be instructed to follow the left side of the bank. During the winter, fewer boats are on the lake meaning no waves and beautiful glassy water. In a double kayak, it took us an hour and 15 minutes to get to the entrance.
Once on the ground, it’s an out and back trail for up to 9 miles. The canyon becomes narrower the further you walk. This is your opportunity to explore the famous slot canyon without crowds or time constraints. Rent the kayak in the morning so that you have plenty of time for this exceptional adventure.
Narrows Hike in Zion
One of Zion National Park‘s most popular hikes is the Narrows. During the summer, lines form and the experience can seem more like a mandatory march. Instead, go in the wintertime!
Bundle up with multiple layers and then rent a dry suit and walking stick from Zion Outfitters or Zion Adventures. Your feet will get wet no matter what, but don your hat and definitely bring hand warmers and gloves. You will want to walk at least 2 miles to the unofficial “Wall Street” checkpoint where the walls narrow. It’s exhausting and cold, but when you’re alone listening to the rushing water and surrounded by beautiful icy cliffs, it will be worth it.
