Red Canyon
On Highway 12 west of Bryce Canyon National Park, it's well worth a stop in Red Canyon. The hoodoos in Red Canyon are the same limestone formation as Bryce Canyon, but without steep switchbacks and cliff drop offs. Red Canyon is less crowded than the national park and short hikes through the hoodoos are fun for everyone in the family, especially little kids.
Visitor Center - If this is your first stop in hoodoo country, check out the exhibits about how hoodoos are formed, and pick up Red Canyon trail maps.
Hoodoo Trail - This short trail starts at the visitor center, and is a .3 mile loop through the hoodoos and pinyon trees. The trail is level and easy for toddlers.
Pink Ledges Trail - The Pink Ledges Trail branches off from the Hoodoo Trail, and goes up through a beautiful array of orange red hoodoos. Kids can climb on the rocks next to the trail and look at all the shades of red, yellow, and greenish blue in the rocks on the ground. There are benches along the way, perfect spot for your picnic lunch.
Horseback rides - Go for a half day ride through the Ponderosa pines and red cliffs in Red Canyon. Rides can be reserved at Ruby's Inn, outside the Bryce Canyon National Park. For kids 7 and up.
