America the Beautiful: Two Iconic National Parks Out West
When it comes to visiting the best national parks out West, you might not know where to start, or what to pack, or the can't-miss sights. We’ve got you covered on your national parks vacation from your first “whoa” to your final “I can’t believe I’m here right now!"
For purple mountain majesties
Not sure if you guys have heard, but there’s a whole lot of beautiful country itching to be explored right here at home. That’s right, America’s got a load of national parks that are calling your name. They’re all like “Josh!” or “Emily!” or you, know, whatever your name is.
But when it comes to visiting the best national parks out West, you might not know where to start, or what to pack, or what you simply gotta see. That’s where we come in. We’ve got you covered on your national parks vacation from your first “woah” to your final “I can’t believe I’m here right now.” Check out our top tips for five must-see American national parks out West, courtesy of seasoned outdoorsman and EF Ultimate Break Tour Director Tyson. Then, put your new knowledge to use with a trip that hits two of the best.
The funky hoodoo spires at Bryce Canyon. Photo: EF Ultimate Break
Bryce Canyon | Utah
A visit to Bryce Canyon National Park is a downright hoodoo hoedown. What is a hoodoo, you ask? It’s a naturally occurring rock that looks like a funky chimney, and Bryce Canyon is chock full of hoodoos (and a hoedown is a joyous group dance, the likes of which you are more than welcome to do here).
To get the full Bryce Canyon picture, Tyson recommends a walk along the Rim Trail, then heading into the canyon itself for full rock formation immersion. For him, it’s the only way to truly appreciate the geology of the park.
Pro tip: The elevation of Bryce Canyon is mostly above 8,000 feet. To avoid elevation sickness, just be sure to take it easy as your body acclimates, stay hydrated, and remember that that post-hike beer is going to hit you harder than you think.
Zion National Park. Photos: EF Ultimate Break
Zion | Utah
Close your eyes and picture an old cowboy movie. Ok now open them. First, that’s a snazzy new hat you’ve got on there. Second, you basically were picturing Zion National Park. This Utahn gem should be a staple on any Western national parks itinerary.
This is a park for serious hikers. Tyson’s advice: “Zion Canyon is the highlight here. You’ll want to hike high to get stunning views looking down.” But he says beware if you’re afraid of heights, “Its two famous trails are not for the faint of heart!”
Pro tip: Tyson warns that you’re likely going to walk out of here covered in the ubiquitous red dirt of the canyon. Pack accordingly.
