About That Zion National Park (April 1 - 7 )

Dear Family and Friends,

We intended to leave Distant Drums RV Park in Camp Verde, Arizona, at 7 on Saturday morning. Unfortunately we had a problem with one jack (there are four leveling jacks,  located on each corner of the coach) and left 45 minutes later. The coach cannot be moved unless all jacks are retracted and the four indicator lights are off. The jack was retracted, but the indicator light was still on, telling us we were not travel ready. After Roger spent time on the phone with Winnebago and the jack system manufacturer (they were gone for the weekend), our neighbor at the RV park suggested that Roger bang on the jack. That did the trick and the light went off and the green light for travel mode glowed. Hooray!

We were concerned about our drive to Kanab, Utah because very high winds were forecast for our route in the afternoon. The sooner we left, the less wind we would have to drive through. We left Camp Verde and drove on I - 17 to Flagstaff where we saw beautiful mountains and pine trees. Leaving Flagstaff, we picked up 89 and drove to Page, Arizona, where we crossed the Glen Canyon Dam bridge over Lake Powell. Then it was on to Kanab, Utah with the last 30 miles being the most difficult to drive because of increasing winds. Arriving in Kanab around 1, we quickly found our home for the night at the Kanab RV Corral. What a surprise when we found out that our new neighbors had been at the Good Sam Rally in Phoenix, the previous week. Below are pictures from the morning's drive.

 I am a mountain and forest girl and ahead lies my snow covered mountain on the approach into Flagstaff.

 Roger is thrilled that he got the jack light to go out so he is a happy driver.

 We made it to Flagstaff.

 The scenery changes as we leave Flagstaff and arrive in Page.

 An overview of Lake Powell

 Driving over the Glen Canyon bridge dam.

On Sunday, we arrived at our home for the next two weeks, Zion River RV Resort located thirteen miles from the entrance to Zion National Park. We quickly set up our home and decided to take a peek at the park. Imagine our surprise when we found the park extremely crowded. Apparently the Utah schools are on Spring Break so we will be sharing the park with lots of people this week. 

This park is huge, so we spoke with an interpretive park ranger at the Visitor Center about the "must do's" in the park. Since we are here for two weeks, we have the opportunity to get to know Zion and the ranger was most helpful in recommending the hikes. We then drove to the History Museum to see the park's orientation movie. 

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away." The hikes that we have done this week truly take my breath away. I am most grateful for this opportunity.

Monday was our first hike in Zion. We started with the Canyon Overlook Trail and decided to do Pa'rus afterward, because Bear could go with us. Below are pictures from the two hikes.

 Our drive to the Canyon Overlook Trail head took us through this mile long tunnel. Traffic goes one way at a time.

 Roger aka Ansel Adams taking some pics. It was 41 degrees.

 The Virgin River slices through Zion contributing to the deep canyons.

 Our reward upon reaching the end of the trail.

This could be the Christmas card picture.

A patient Bear waited for us while we hiked Canyon Overlook. Now he gets his turn on Pa'rus. This is the only trail that allows leashed dogs on it in the park.

 The Virgin River

Our first full day was such a success. We look forward to many more hikes and bike rides in the area. Poor Bear will have to wait for us in the Tour.

My brother Warren flew into Hurricane, Utah to spend the week with us. Our first hike together was on Wednesday to Kolob Canyon (on the west side of Zion), where we hiked Taylor Creek Trail.

 Sheer cliffs on either side of Warren.

 Did I mention that I love Roger's retirement?

Our reward at the end of the trail are two arches. Absolutely breathtaking!

On Thursday morning, Roger, Warren and I hiked the spectacular Angels Landing which is 4.4 miles that is completely straight up. It is a strenuous hike that requires the usage of chains bolted into the rock face that serves as handrails. The summit commands an incredible 360 degree panorama of rugged spires and towering walls. Below are the pictures:

 Along the way to the top of Angels Landing.

 The reward after a very difficult climb. 

 The very top of Angels Landing with 360 degree views.

 The Virgin River runs through Zion National Park.

 We were at the top of that rock (Angels Landing).

 View of Angels Landing on the way down.

 At the base before we climbed to Angels Landing.

Saturday, Roger, Bear and I joined Warren and his friend Lisa (plus their three dogs) in a hike called Water Canyon. To get to this canyon, you must drive to Hildale - Colorado City. You may remember this area because this is the Warren Jeffs community. We had to drive through the area to get to the trailhead. What an education! The girls and women really do wear "prairie" dresses with very involved hairdos.

Once we reached the trailhead we started our spectacular hike. Bear had so much fun hiking with the other dogs. Below are our pictures of the hike:

 Warren, Lisa and Roger 

 An arch

 Roger, Bear and I taking a break.

 Warren, Andie, Suzanne and Bear

It has been an incredible week filled with moments that have "taken my breath away." Roger and I wish you all a very Happy Easter. We look forward to another week in Zion.