Our farewell to Zion took place at our old favorite, Observation Point. This is a strenuous day hike, all of 8 miles including a steep climb of 2,200 feet in four miles. Add 104 degrees heat to the mix and the nature of the hike becomes a little different. We have always maintained that the trail is so rich in views and experiences that one becomes spoilt. If one stays on that mountain too long, one also begins to ‘spoil’ in the heat, no matter how much deodorant and sunscreen one uses.
Although we have undertaken all the Zion day-trails at least three or four times, one cannot grow tired of them. As we have said before, Zion is often likened to a sanctuary, hence its name. Did we ever mention how much we ‘love’ Angel’s Landing? Thought not.
We remember our first hike at this trail when we met a naval aviator at the same point in the picture above. During the discussion, the warplane warrior, told us that he could not walk any higher as he was 'scared of heights'. How's that for an angle? We wondered to ourselves if he only flew on low-altitude missions.
At the peak, we spent time conversing with a German couple and their daughter who speaks and acts just like a local. They provided us an interesting perspective of America. Then there was the guy from Ohio who had the chutzpah to give us a lecture about Angel's Landing. We are always willing to learn but the guy had not yet even attempted it. We were so miffed that if he did not have such large forearms, we would have had our editor challenge him to an arm wrestle. Yes, sir. We can be aggressive when pressed.
It is amazing to trudge these steep trails surrounded by monoliths that are within touching distance. There is nothing gradual at Zion. The cliff walls are perpendicular to the ground and tower above all else. The colors vary from gray and brown to red. Trees and bushes dot the sandstone with the occasional colorful shrubs and plants. Along the trail one passes through slot canyons, cliff edges with huge drop-offs, small pools and the opportunity to scramble over boulders, rocks and dead tree trunks. The latter often gives one the ability to scale over and through gorges and the like.
On a personal note, we are excited to welcome the Grolman family to San Diego. We have known Errol for many years although he is still a young man. Errol has forgotten more about banking than many executives will ever know. Welcome to Penny, Jarett and Kelsey and of course, Errol.
We think the pictures, especially when enlarged, provide a fine perspective of the views of Zion country.
Cheers
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