Kolob is a rugged section of the park and you really have to want and know how to be here.
Read MoreAshdown Gorge via Crystal Springs and Potato Hollow
We cross another trail and continue on towards Potato Hollow. The trail makes a switchback and everyone groans as we realize we need to climb another ridgeline before our final long descent to the head of Ashdown Gorge.
Read MoreWheeler Peak - Wheeler Peak - NV quad
Like walking through molasses. I haven't been on the trail for very long, but I need to stop and take a break. I've come to the conclusion that this is going to be a long day if this is how it is starting out.
Read MorePole Canyon - Wheeler Peak - NV quad
Unfortunately, I am growing bored with simply hiking among the "different forest communities, along the creekbed".
Read MoreThe Wave - Coyote Buttes quad
I bump into the group a couple more times hiking back along the trail, but I linger in the shaded areas to drink more water, reluctant to leave, and wanting to completely fill up my cup of experience.
Read MoreFivemile Mountain and UNP 5691
Twice more I would circle the jeep to verify lines and direction. I am cautious of getting too close to the edge after all the rain, the edges are bound to be soft and crumble easy. With my 6 point turn complete, I head back down the mountain.
Read MoreGrand Parade Trail - Kodachrome Basin State Park
The trail hikes up and through the wash toward the box canyon and I marvel at the surrounding beauty in the morning sun.
Read MoreShakespeare Arch/Sentinel Trail - Kodachrome Basin, UT
A large swath of sagebrush, hundreds of feet wide, have debris among their branches. It's easy to spot the path the water took on its descent down the barren hillside and I'm glad I missed the show.
Read MoreNorthgate Peak East - The Guardian Angels quad
This simple scramble up Northgate Peak East has never failed to put things into perspective as I gaze out over the red and white Navajo Sandstone that is Zion National Park.
Read MoreGreat Basin - A camping experience Day 2
I am thrilled with the prospects of exploring an underground cavern such as this. I then look down at the cement walkway beneath my feet, the hidden cables and lights, and I realize this would be a totally different experience if one were actually exploring this realm for the first time
Read More