Like all waterfalls, you can hear it before you see it, and I catch my first glimpse above the trees. Memories flood back as I walk through the trees into a small wooded grove surrounding the plunge pool.
Read MoreWest Rim Trail - Zion National Park
I finally arrive at Telephone Canyon Springs and I am greeted by another thirsty hiker. The mule deer isn’t shy, and I’m grateful to refill my water supply. I’m out of water and have been for the past hour. The spring is flowing, but it is nothing more than a trickle.
Read MoreRock Hounding and the Capitol Reef Loop
We have driven 349 miles. Seen 2 National Parks (Capital Reef and Bryce) 1 National Monument (Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument) and been through 2 national forests (Fishlake and Dixie National Forests) ate good food in Koosharem, found rocks, and generally stayed out way past our bedtime. Road Trip!
Read MoreHickman Bridge - Capitol Reef National Park
The trail starts out hiking along the river at the base of sandstone cliffs carved by the river over time. The path is angling up a rugged break in the cliff face to arrive on top.
Read MoreBuckhorn Trail / Golden Wall Trail - Castro Canyon, UT quad
I arrive at the juncture of the Buckhorn Trail and the Golden Wall Trail and immediately know my plans are going to change.
Read MoreArches Trail - Castro Canyon, UT quad
The trail switchbacks through massive hoodoos along a fairly steep trail. The angle of the sun dropping into the western sky it setting the red rock on fire and I am in awe of this stunning ridgeline.
Read MoreNorthgate Peaks East - The Guardian Angels, UT quad
Friends in from out of town, family looking for a fun, cooler (as in temperature) hike in the Zion area. Always one of my favorites. I don't think there is another peak, in Zion as easy to climb, that offers the same rewarding views as Northgate Peaks East summit.
Read MoreWillis Creek, Bull Valley Gorge and Mossy Cave Trail
Willis Creek is a non-technical slot canyon, which provides a person the amazing experience of hiking through the narrow confines of a true slot canyon without having to do any downclimbing or rappelling. Willis Creek is simply a stroll, available to horses, mules and children alike (we saw each during our time here).
Read MoreLosee Canyon - Casto Canyon, UT quad
Red Canyon is the stunning canyon on the way to Bryce Canyon. It is iconic in its own right, having many pictures taken of the two small tunnels that exist in the canyon. It is often overlooked and disregarded as travelers make their way further down the road to Bryce. Turns out Red Canyon is a hikers dream.
Read MoreBlew by Peak - Temple of Sinawava, UT quad
For those interested in both peakbagging and canyoneering, Flagpole Mountain is that rare double treat. Bag the peak, rappel into Mystery Canyon and finish the day by hiking out the Zion Narrows.
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