Bryce Canyon National Park (BREIS) (56 sq mi/145 sq km), Garfield and Kane cos., SW Utah. The Pink Cliffs of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, c.2,000 ft/610 m high, were formed by water, frost, and wind action on alternate strata of softer and harder limestone; the result is colorful and unique erosional forms. Bounded W, S, and NE by Dixie Natl. Forest. Anasazi were probably the 1st Native Americans to inhabit the area, and many of their artifacts are exhibited. Est. 1923 as Bryce Canyon Natl. Monument, authorized as Utah Natl. Park, 1924; name changed 1928. State Highway 12 crosses N end of park, park road extends S nearly length of park.
