But rocks aren't the only thing you'll find here. Because of the varying altitudes in Zion, there are many different climates, creating habitats for diverse plant and animal populations. On the desert floor, don't be surprised to see a chuckwalla sunning itself on the rocks. Higher up, you could have a chance encounter with a cliff chipmunk. With over 400 animal species, 160 miles of rivers and streams and 57 miles of road, you'll never run out of things to see and do in this portion of the Red Rock Desert. And just off to the east is Highway 12, which will take you through Bryce Canyon National Park.

 

 

 

Bryce Canyon is at the top of a formation known as the Grand Staircase, which also includes Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. Like Zion, Bryce Canyon's limestone rock has been shaped by eons of erosion. A process known as frost-wedging which refers to the repeated freeze-thaw cycle that can occur in certain climates has created some fascinating shapes in the Utah Desert, like these famous spires known as "hoodoos".

 

 

 

There is no shortage of wildlife in Bryce either. Keep an eye out overhead for the California condor and the peregrine falcon. Or a flora is what you are after, there is plenty of that too. From Zion Park to Bryce Canyon, from the Grand Staircase to Cedar Breaks National Monument, there is something for everyone along the Colorado River Scenic Byway.