"Mile 217 in the canyon. Hike about 3 miles north to a natural spring"
Visited on Apr 17, 2011

Like standing on the crest of a breaking wave, Cedar Breaks National Monument rests at the end of the Markagut Plateau. It's amphitheater stretching below full of colorful pillars and sculpted rock called Hoodoos. The pillars are carved from limestone which eroded away much the same way as Bryce Canyon. However, many find the colors to be more brilliant and dramatic.

Bryce Canyon National Park  in southwestern Utah is one of the strangest, weirdest, most beautiful National Parks in the Southwest.  It's a bit of a misnomer, it's actually an amphitheater created from millions of years of erosion.  Be sure to check out Sunrise Point and Sunset Point at dawn and dusk to see the Hoodoos light up as if they are on fire (you don't need to go to the correct one, they both offer amazing views).

Grand Canyon National Park pretty much speaks for itself; anyone who has been there will know this.  For those yet to go, the Grand Canyon will consistently make your jaw drop even for seasoned veterans of the park.  It is no wonder it is one of the country's most popular National Parks.   With limited time, you can drive along the rim (Most people visit the South Rim, as it is more accessible from many other destinations and has more of the park's highlights).

Zion National Park in Utah is another popular destination in the Southwestern United states with some beautiful views.  It was the first national park in Utah and the best way to experience it is hiking among the high cliffs and through the narrow canyons. It is home to some very unique hikes, such as the Narrows where you walk up to 6 miles up a river, the sheer canyon walls on either side of you, or hike the Angels Landing Trail with 21 switchbacks to the top for a great lookout.