Sept 8th, Last day at Zion Nat'l Park. R&R day!

Well, we are back in the communications world at this campground just outside of Zion Nat'l Park.  So a bit of catching up to do.

We enjoyed our stay at Bryce, but both of us got tired of the same scenery.  So one day we drove over to Kodachrome SP, where we had our first disappointment of the trip.  The brochures all list this as a park with beautiful colors and "chimney" type rock formations.  We did see some rock formations but the rest of the park was fairly drab.  We completed a short little hike.

 On the drive pack to the highway, we drove past some old farm buildings.  Pretty sweet!!

Then we headed over to Red Canyon which is part of the Dixie National Forest.  We were NOT disappointed.  In fact we loved this area so much we hiked the following morning before we left for Zion.



This was along the "Golden Wall" hike



Shades of lights



If you look carefully, you can see the trail near the top.




Hiking to the top



We took a side trail that we thought connected.  It did not, so we had to reverse and go back along the edge.  Phil had to stay only a few feet in front of me at all times, scary for me!



Just another trail with steps



A better view of the hike down

Zion!  How can one begin to describe Zion National Park.  Pictures won't due justice but I will give it a try!



Panoramic view



  

Campground with beautiful views

Rocks extend to the edge of the road



Angels Landing is one of the top two attractions in the park.  The fact that this trail was build is remarkable.  The path winds its way up steep switchbacks for an 1500 ft elevation.  At the summit the trail ends at an incredible perch.  Round trip 5 miles.  We didn't think we could do the last 1/2 mile to the very top as there were cables to help you pull yourself along steep rocks, and we are just not that crazy.  

Beginning the trail following the Virgin River

 

Climbing is sometimes difficult!

  

Other times the trail  was flat


 

Only to climb again





Beautifully build switchbacks.  There were too many to count1



Many people were sitting down as they descended.  We used our good judgement and did not do this part of the hike.



Brave souls who made it to the top.  The trail continued on the ridge line for another 1/2 mile







So we leave Zion tomorrow and head to Lake Powell in Page, AZ.  It has been an amazing stay.