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Photographers seeking sunset pictures are often
disappointed by that fact that most of cliffs and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon
do not face the setting sun. Paria View is one exception. Here one
prominent and photogenic castle-like hoodoo rises high above the canyon
floor to absorb the last rays of the setting sun. Paria is a Paiute word
meaning "water with Elk" or "water with mud" the translation varies
depending on context and season of the year.
Geology
As you look down and to the southeast you are gazing into the Paria River
watershed. This region is famous for its slot canyons. These slot canyons
were carved by rapid rates of runoff during Spring thaws in the Ice Age.
Even in today's drier climate some erosion continues to occur during flash
floods. As a result hikers are urged to stay out of the Paria Canyons
during thunderstorms. This river's watershed is so immense that even a
moderate rain can create catastrophic flooding downstream. The bottom of a
slot canyon is the last place you want to be when a 30 ft. wall of water
comes tearing downstream at 50 mph.
Nature
Paria View is a good place to watch for
Peregrine
Falcons. Perhaps they prefer the comparative quietness this overlook
offers. In the meadows back down the road from Paria View, Mule Deer and
occasionally Elk can been seen. Keeping to the forest during the day these
animals make their subtle appearance during the twilight hours. In late
spring you might also spy the
Pronghorn
Antelope in these forest meadows. Pronghorn leave the sagebrush
prairies north of the park to give birth to their young in the seclusion
of the forest.
Trails
Although no hiking trails exist in this section of the park this is the
location of one of the more popular cross-country ski trails - the Paria
Loop. This hilly section of the rim is also a fun and challenging place
for snowshoeing.
Services
None
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