Outdoor Adventure Awaits at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon

Under Canvas Bryce Canyon offers an abundance of outdoor thrills coupled with a unique glamping experience. The area is a pristine retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Horseback Riding Adventure

“This’ll be a chance for you to really cowboy,” said Joseph Steed. “We’re going off-road.”

Perched on horseback on a ridge outside Tropic, Utah, I was captivated by a landscape that resembled a scene straight out of an animated movie. As I gazed across the vast silver-green sagebrush, the wonder of Bryce Amphitheater and its towering hoodoos took my breath away. This was true wilderness—untamed and unrestricted.

My trip to Utah in September was dedicated to escaping the hustle and bustle of New York City for a refreshing long weekend. A newly opened glamping site, Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, promised outdoor activities including biking, climbing, and hiking while providing luxurious amenities such as king-size beds. After checking in and expressing my interest in horseback riding, I quickly found myself on the trail, guided by Steed from Western Canyons Trailrides.

Exploring the Scenic Trails

During our eight-hour ride, we traversed narrow slot canyons, crossed wet creek beds, and ascended hills, where each breathtaking view was more astonishing than the last. While munching on lemon-pepper jerky, Steed shared captivating tales from his life as a cowboy.

“One thing to remember,” Steed cautioned, “You can’t do this lifestyle if you don’t love it. It has to be a choice. Otherwise, it’s too tough.” His words resonated, especially as I felt the fatigue in my legs.

Returning to the comforts of Under Canvas, the aches from my long ride faded away. I met Matt Norton, the guest experience supervisor, outside the lobby tent for a tour of the eco-friendly 700-acre property, enhancing the overall experience with its serene ambiance. As the sky transitioned to dusk, we were enveloped in the warm glow of three firepits while enjoying delectable meals, from roasted trout to slow-cooked greens.

Increasing Comforts in Nature

My tent, aptly named the Hoodoo Suite, provided ample space for six guests and came equipped with a private porch and firepit. The interior was designed for comfort, featuring a king-size bed, a sofa bed, and modern conveniences like charging ports. An en suite bathroom completed the luxurious touch, along with features aimed at reducing water waste.

The next morning unfolded with a comforting almond-milk latte from the coffee bar before I embarked on a canyoneering adventure in Kane County. Collaborating with Mike Dunn from Zion Guide Hub, I was introduced to the adrenaline of scaling down sandstone cliffs—a thrilling experience I was apprehensive about due to my fear of heights.

Dunn’s light-hearted comment about leaving car keys under the bumper added an amusing note to our expedition. We were enveloped by the picturesque scenery of juniper trees as we prepared for our canyoneering journey.

A Memorable Canyoneering Adventure

With awe, I gazed at the vast Milky Way, which illuminated the sky during our trek. I recalled the joy of childhood nights spent under the stars, a beautiful reminder of nature’s grandeur.

As I scaled the Huntress canyon, Dunn narrated the diverse history behind canyoneering— a sport that surged in popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s. His experience was evident as he shared tales of his most remarkable climbs, including the notable ascent of the Altar of Sacrifice.

Surprisingly, my apprehension gave way to enjoyment as I embraced the thrill of canyoneering. The gentle splash of water from recent rains revitalized my spirit and brought back the childlike joy of adventure.

A Night Under the Stars

As the day faded, I reveled in the cozy atmosphere of the communal area surrounded by the comforting scent of campfire smoke. Drawn to a telescope lined up to view Jupiter, I mingled with fellow guests, embracing the wonders of the night sky. Observing the rings of Saturn felt utterly magical, a fitting conclusion to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Revisiting the Milky Way under Utah’s night sky was a captivating experience that rekindled fond memories of my childhood explorations.

A version of this story first appeared in the July 2023 issue of iBestTravel under the headline “Wide Open Spaces.”