by Diane Quinn

Created on: February 15, 2008

Want a Technicolor, nature-filled getaway? How about world class scenery so dazzling, that your friends will think your vacation photos were taken by a National Geographic photographer! Welcome to Southern Utah and Northern Arizona.

Three jewels in the American National Park System are strategically located within an easy drive of each other. With centrally located towns from which to base your travel, it does not get much better than this nature trilogy in the American West.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

The canyons of Zion are masterpieces sculpted from raw rock by the Virgin River. Water created this breathtaking scenery, and the roaring sounds of spring waterfalls resonate around the park. Native Americans revere Zion as a spiritual place, and you will experience why many call Zion "heaven on earth". Elevations rise from 3,600 to 8,700 feet. Natural caves have been carved out of granite.

Start off at the visitor center and view the film, "Zion Canyon Treasure of the Gods" for a stunning overview of the myth, magic and beauty of the Zion canyon. A shuttle runs April through October over the six mile upper Zion Canyon. No private vehicles are permitted in that area during this time.

There are numerous hiking trails to accommodate the beginner or "back country treks", experienced hiker. Horseback riding is also available. Like every national park, rangers conduct walks, talks and campfire programs. Spotting numerous mule deer will be a daily occurrence. Wildlife is abundant here, and the variety of wildflowers too numerous to count.

Camping is open all year with most sites available on a "first come" basis. If your budget allows, make reservations at the park lodge inside Zion Park. Otherwise, numerous motel accommodations and restaurants are available at the main entrance in Springdale, Utah.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

At first sight, Bryce Canyon looks a lot like what every Star Trek fan might expect if they had followed Mr. Spock home to Vulcan. The intricate spires and formations, called "hoodoos", defy imagination. From the top at heights up to 9,100 feet you gaze down upon a red sandstone army of monoliths. Begin your explorations at the plateau rim on an 18 mile loop road. Shuttle buses are also available "in season".

Hiking and horseback riding are the main activities for the best viewing of this incredible park. Over 50 miles of hiking trails offer close encounters with hoodoos. Trails lead down among them from overlooks on the main park road. Take a short walk down

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