BRYCE CANYON — The onrushing spring has thawed the winter chill, inspiring Utah families to look for a fun vacation destination that is convenient, affordable and sure to create memories.
You can’t go wrong visiting some of Utah’s acclaimed national parks, collectively known as The Mighty Five. Bryce Canyon National Park tops the list with its towering red rock formations filling the giant natural amphitheater with texture and color.
“This is such a wonderful time of the year to visit Bryce Canyon National Park,” Ruby’s Inn general manager Lance Syrett said. “In the springtime, snow still caps the red rock hoodoos, but the temperatures are warm enough to explore some great trails.”
In May 1916, Reuben “Ruby” Syrett and his wife Minnie started their homestead near the entrance of what would become Bryce Canyon National Park. They quickly began providing hospitality for guests around the region, who were drawn to Bryce Canyon National Park’s collection of rock pinnacles and sweeping vistas.
This year marks Ruby’s Inn’s centennial, and along with the celebration come great ways to save on lodging. Ruby’s Inn encourages guests to take time to enjoy all there is to see by offering the Spring Fling deal. Following their first night, visitors can get 30 percent off each additional night’s stay. This special runs from March 28 to May 5.
For families wanting to get away without breaking the bank, Bryce Canyon’s per-carload entry fee of just $30 is valid for seven days. (Park entrance is completely free the week of April 16-24 in celebration of National Park Week.) Families can save even more by taking part in free activities offered inside the park, including ranger-led geology talks, rim walks, full-moon hikes, astronomy presentations and telescope viewings.
Although it doesn’t take long to drive to Bryce Canyon from Salt Lake City or St. George, it’s far enough away from the city lights to have one of the darkest skies in North America. On a moonless night, visitors can see thousands of stars light up the sky.
“For astronomers and stargazers alike, this is the perfect location,” Ruby’s Inn director of marketing Jean Seiler said. “The stars illuminate the sky and the Milky Way extends across the horizon, making for an unforgettable experience.”
Families can enjoy additional outdoor activities at historic Ruby’s Inn, including ATV tours, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding and horse-drawn wagon rides. When it’s time to eat and relax, the resort offers on-site dining, an indoor pool and unique shopping at Old Bryce Town.
“While the location itself is remote, the amenities available are terrific,” Syrett said. “Families will reconnect while exploring the outdoors and unplugging from their busy lives.”
The entrance fee to the park includes unlimited use of the Bryce Canyon Shuttle, which commences April 15. The free shuttle begins and ends at Ruby’s Inn and takes guests to the park’s visitor center and many scenic viewpoints.
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