netta7

Hi,

I am planning 5 nights in Zion and Bryce this summer (hot, we know!) for a family with 2 active kids ages 6 & 10. We've been to the area but not in the summer and not with the kids. We currently have 3 nights at the Cliffrose and 2 nights at Bryce Country Cabins (Ruby's and the Lodge were booked). My question is around activities. We have some hikes planned and and are considering Ruby's Rodeo. Are there any other activities we should consider? Will tubing be available late July? My six year old doesn't seem to be old enough to go horseback riding even though he has been taking riding lessons here for a year. Is there anything else or should we just enjoy the hiking? Given how hard it has been to find available hotels, we know the place will be packed. Thank you for your thoughts and suggestions.

marigross

By all means, book a mule trip in Bryce canyon. Make sure you book it through NPS and the Bryce Lodge.

I think the 6yr old would be fine but you know your child. The mule trip was one of the highlights of our vacation last summer. They had several small kids in our group. They rode next to the cowboy.

My daughter had never seen a rodeo and she loved the one at Ruby's. It was fun for everyone.

She absolutely loved the nocturnal ranger program at Bryce. The NASA guys were in the visitor center parking lot with their big telescopes. It was amazing.

You should go into the river by the Narrows in Zion. Get some water shoes, a walking stick, a bathing suit and some floating tube. The kids (and parents) will have a blast. Make sure to take a change of clothes with you because it can get cool in the shade..yes, in July.

gail

At Bryce, drag the kids out of bed before dawn and drive into Park - almost guarantee to see big animals. Do same at sunset, watch sunset over Canyon and on drive out see more big animals.

Age limits for horse and mule rides sometimes has to do with insurance regulations and they do not care how long your kid has been riding.

netta7

Thanks so much. Unfortunately, 7 is the age limit, even for the mules. I do understand insurance and all that. I know some parents would just fudge on the age, but our child is extremely honest and I want to keep him that way. Any other suggestions would be most welcome. I want to make as many reservations in advance as I possibly can.

KathrynT

Be sure to do the walk in the Narrows at Zion but bring old tennis shoes you can toss or water shoes with good soles. I think the kids will love it and it is a great way to cool off. Check out all the free ranger programs offered at each location. The hikes and activities they offer are very kid friendly. The Weeping Rock hike is short and the kids should enjoy it.

In front of the Zion lodge is a lovely large grassy area where kids can run and play while the adults enjoy the rocking chairs.

utahtea

There are junior ranger programs at both parks.

We would go on vacation for 4 weeks at a time and the only activity our kids would experience in the parks would be hiking. It's a great activity, it's cheap and you really get to see the parks.

Utahtea