Some of the people I´ve talked to, that have also been to the Bryce Canyon, are of the opinion that it´s the nicest of all the grand natural monuments of the American West. I can follow that notion, even if I have a different view about it. Most of the spectacular views, being big or small in scale, have their own awe-inspiring greatness. Bryce Canyon National Park joins all the other great names with no less significance. The one really significant advantage in comparison to others is it´s easy and quick accessibility. One is in the middle of wonders within minutes, without having to ask permission, or having to plan ahead as if on an expedition. The impact of human presence on the paths seems to be under control and supervision by the highly professional National Park Service. As long as everyone sticks to the rules, things are on the sunny side of preservation and protection. Having travelled in the US many times since 1983, I have no doubt about it, as most visitors to all sorts of parks and protected areas are very disciplined. This makes it easier for planners to keep an responsible eye on the limitations they impose. Problems and potential problems do not arise from lack of discipline, but rather from the sheer number of visitors. And of course there´s always the real danger of corporate interest in natural resources and the corresponding amounts of money which softens politicians and their flip flop mentality. But not here. No doomsday picture drawing now. Bryce Canyon is there for everyone to enjoy, wether hiking down or viewing from the platforms above.

See more pics of Bryce Canyon.