Bryce Canyon is where you'll learn the true meaning of "hoodoo" -- a freestanding pillar of rock. In addition to a landscape punctuated with hundreds of hoodoos, Bryce Canyon has spectacular natural amphitheaters. Star gazers will love checking out celestial bodies in Bryce Canyon's clear skies after sunset or exploring the area by moonlight on ranger-guided hikes. Because of the canyon's unpolluted skies, you'll see three times more stars than in most U.S. rural areas. Astronomy programs run between May and September and provide opportunities to scan the heavens through high-powered telescopes.

In addition to back-country camping for the hearty, there are two campgrounds near the visitor's center with space for RVs. There's also the Bryce Canyon Lodge with more than 70 rooms and 40 cabins, as well as a restaurant and general store where guidebooks and camping/hiking gear are available.

Bryce Canyon is open and full of activities year round. Summer hikes are popular, but hiking season doesn't end when snow falls -- just strap on a pair of snowshoes. Ranger-led snowshoe walks take place all winter.