Day 3 - Bryce Canyon

Temperatures dropped over night, and I woke up kind of chilly in my teepee. Luckily I didn't have to break down a tent as I set out for Bryce Canyon before dawn. The drive was absolutely gorgeous as I watched the sunrise over the canyon walls... as the sun came up, the dark wall of canyons began to take shape and the darkness turned into the varied orange colors again. 

Early morning on the road

I opted for a scenic route (instead of highway) since it wasn't a long drive. That route took me through Cedar City and Dixie National Forest... the tall pines lined the road and other trees were showing off fall colors, glowing a golden yellow in the early morning sun. In addition to the beauty were curvy mountain roads that scared the crap out of me, particularly with the "icy road" signs everywhere!

Just climbing on a tree at the edge of a canyon...b/c that made sense.

Bryce Canyon

Hiking on a very warm day (that would turn very cold at night)

I survived and made it to Bryce Canyon, secured a campsite, and set out for some hikes. It was absolutely breathtaking. Photos and words can't do justice to the experience. I got in a good 3-4 hour hike and then took the scenic drive up to the view points along the canyon. While the hike presented no "fear of heights" moments, the drive was another story. 

Twice in one day, I found myself gripping the wheel with sweaty palms, stiff-necked, and driving as slowly as possible... freaking out if any other vehicles came up behind me! As I neared the top, I tried to talk sense into myself. Suddenly, I was at the top as I slowly edged toward the lookout points... it was worth it! I managed to hit all the view points on the way down, peering over the edge like a normal person only to get nervous in the car again around every corner.

Facing fear at the top (notice I'm not facing the edge yet)

Worth it for this view!

 The temperature kept dropping.. more than expected. By 8pm, I was sitting in my car with the heat running because I didn't have fire wood and it was dropping into the upper 30s. The forecast called for a low of 35, so I was prepared for it, just not looking forward to it.

A cold sunset over the canyon.