The group that went to Zion yesterday was a little tired today ... and Susan and I are in a permanent state of tiredness. We chose to take some easier hikes in Snow Canyon State Park near St. George, UT. We knew it would be hot due to its relatively low elevation. We also knew it would be sunny because none of the trails were shaded for significant portions. But we were prepared with our sunscreen and plenty of water and headed off.
The road to Snow Canyon was pretty desolate with only a couple of very small towns to break up the high desert. That changed when we reached Hurricane, UT and St. George. Both were bustling with activity and both seemed to be growing rapidly. Many new homes were being built right out to the park.
Snow Canyon was a big state park about 5 miles long. It had 50 miles of trails. With an area that big, the trails had varied features in its different sections. The first trail we took, Jenny's Canyon, was short at about 1/2 mile out and back. But it was our first experience with a slot canyon and we had fun with it.
The second trail was Petrified Dunes Trail. It was longer at 1.2 miles. It climbed and crossed sand dunes frozen in time and consistency. They were rock-hard with ripples apparently caused by winds or water as they "petrified". They went to some heights and provided excellent views of the park. The only issue was the complete lack of shade as we were hiking on 100% exposed rocks.
The last trail was just outside the park. Johnson Canyon Trail was the longest at 1.8 miles in and out. It led us across a lava-strewn field into a canyon with the promise of shade beneath a stand of cottonmouth trees. There was lots of shade but it was not on the trail. We found a little patch to rest and drink some water.
But is that enough for even those of us in state of exhaustion? Not a chance. We decided to drive back through Zion. There are 2 parts to Zion. The southern entrance is the one used by everyone since it has access to the canyon with all of the famous sites and trails. But there is a western entrance that is far less used. It is called Kolob. It is so much less used that there isn't even a fee to enter. It has some trails that we drove by and also has some nice views.
We finally tired and headed toward home, stopping in Springdale for dinner at a Mexican restaurant, Bits and Spurs. Our homeward trek took us through the main section of Zion where I was able to get some photos I had missed previously.
 |
| Checkerboard Mesa |
After 2 straight days of bighorn sheep sightings, none were to be seen tonight. That's a good thing since it allowed us to get back to Kanab just a smidge earlier.
Susan’s quote of the day: “Paul drives using Braille". I fully admit that I use most of the road. It isn't as noticeable in North Carolina as it is out here. That's because they use the center line rumble strips on every road. They do keep me - and everyone else in the car - awake.
The highlights - Slot canyon hike.
The regrets - None.
Today's total miles - 227
Today's miles from start to destination - 0
Today's miles on side trips - 227
Today's miles driven by Paul - 227
Today's miles driven by Susan - 0
Today's hours in car - 5
Total Miles Hiked - 3.2
Cumulative total miles - 5,688
Cumulative miles from start to destination - 3,668
Cumulative miles on side trips - 2,020
Cumulative miles driven by Paul - 5,101
Cumulative miles driven by Susan - 587
Cumulative hours in car - 116
Cumulative Miles Hiked - 29.7
No comments:
Post a Comment