Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

In the winter, Bryce is beautiful but can be icy. The same is true of the trails leading up from Zion Canyon. In the summer, Zion is too hot, and Bryce can be crowded. In spring or fall, the bike riding at Zion is great -- you ride up-canyon and then glide down. No traffic, as a result of the great shuttles.

Near Bryce, don't miss Kodachrome Basin. If you are adventurous, there are some excellent slot canyons nearby -- Willis and Cottonwood. But the dirt roads near Kodachrome can get very slick in wet weather -- the bentonite clay turns to greasy gumbo.