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As the last big stop on our cross country trip, we planned to spend almost a full week in Utah, visiting several parks and also exploring Lake Powell. But alas, things don’t always go according to plan.
Once we got into Utah we started to get our cell service back and could check out the temperatures for the next week. Since we were tent camping and had two big fluffs with us, it was important to make sure no one was going to overheat during the day or freeze at night.
Each place we planned to visit was showing temps in the high 90s and low 30s. For that reason we decided it was safest to see what we could in a day and then continue our journey out to California.
BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Bryce Canyon National Park is filled with the most breathtaking, endless views of red rocks, canyons and rock columns called hoodoos. There is an entrance fee, but we used our America the Beautiful National Park Pass to get in at no extra cost.
You’ll find very few dog-friendly spots in Bryce Canyon, one being the paved path between Sunrise and Sunset Points. It is only a one mile walk, but the boys still loved it!
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Along this portion of the rim trail you will be taking in the sights of the gorgeous Bryce Amphitheater! There were several places to hike down further into the canyon, so we took turns exploring since the dogs couldn’t leave the path.
We spent several hours here just enjoying the view and taking in the beauty that is Bryce Canyon. Sadly, we missed seeing the spectacular night sky and will surely be back for the epic stargazing.
CORAL PINK SAND DUNES
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park was a real treat! The sand here is a stunning pink-red color that is said to become even more vibrant and breathtaking at sunset. There is an entrance fee of $8 to enter that you cannot use National Park Pass for.
Dogs and humans alike are allowed to roam these dunes together. Keep an eye out though for recreational vehicles who also share the same sand with you!
We spent hours here and the dogs loved running and digging in the sand, so much so, they turned into little coral colored monsters. Remember to take a lot of water out to the dunes with you, because it can be quite the trek back.
There were only a couple other people out on the dunes, which was a nice, quiet change of pace from the National Parks. We had such a blast here and were so exhausted by the time we got back to the car. I would definitely check this place out if you have the time!
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ZION NATIONAL PARK
Zion National Park is truly a sight to see with its towering sandstone cliffs and deep canyons! Again, we used our handy National Park Pass to enter the park.
We entered the park through the east entrance which took us along Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. You will drive through a mile long tunnel carved into the sandstone cliffs which will then open up to a series of switchbacks, as you descend into the canyon. It was such a fun drive!
Once we reached Canyon Junction, we had to continue south, as only shuttle buses are allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. However, from that same point you can stop at Pa’rus Trail, which is the only trail dogs are allowed on in the park.
As we headed south, we hit the visitor center and the town of Springdale, which has several lodging and dining options.
Zion is a huge park, but not very dog friendly, which is completely understandable. This can be an extremely hot place and they want as little impact from our furry friends left behind as possible. With that said, we will absolutely be coming back to check out this park in all of its glory without our pups.
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Deciding to spend only a day in Utah was the best move for us, but we wish we could have explored even more in this great state. We had the opportunity to dip our toes in and see some amazing places, and now we are craving our next adventure! Let us know what places you love to visit in Utah with and without your dogs!
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