Initial of three targets, the top via a switchback path, of course
Looking down the canyon from the summit of Observation Point
Close your eyes. Allow yourself to be transported to a time when you felt the beauty, warmth and tranquility
of being held to your mother’s bosom or the strength and security of your father’s strong arms surrounding
your body. Now open your eyes slightly and peer towards the towering monoliths, massive rocks of mountains,
overhanging cliffs in shades of bronze, red, and white. Unlike so many other mountains that have reasonable
gradients, the cliffs of Zion are vertical. Proud, sometimes overbearing but always striking, these giants
are so overwhelming but nevertheless, if you allow it, calming and protective like a parent. The alternative
is to be intimidated and fearful. Don’t. They mean no harm. Like a gentle giant, they have no means of hiding
their sheer size and seeming ferocity. They remain standing century-upon-century, facing the elements tirelessly
and forming a lager which offers protection to those enveloped in their canyon below. But even more than that,
think deeply of the whole system within which we reside.
Color protruding from cliff walls, coming down and fairly close to trailhead.
A pensive but energetic editor on the day.
Fortunately, caught the soft sunlight on the cliff wall contrasting with the bright light in the bowl.
Take your eyes off the towering monsters for a moment and allow them to dip lower, that is, if you
have taken yourself up a trail to one of the summits. Let your eyes take in the canyon which is home to the
winding and wending Virgin River. Although fairly placid outside stormy weather, it irrigates the flora in the
canyon which in turn provide color on the ground and above. In case you tire of the various shades of green,
be patient, for along comes another season and turns the greens into yellows, oranges and reds. Add in the
golden halo created by the sun which reflects off the mountains and trees; it further enhances the coloring
dramatically. All this occurs about us with, inappropriately termed, regular monotony. Of course, that’s
the point. Each moment of the day, the dynamics vary. Cloud formations are never the same, the wind rustles
the leaves, tall grasses sway and the sun, from a slightly different angle each day, shines its light on the
objects below. All this happens whether we watch or not. So when we forget about miracles witnessed by looking
at our reflections in a mirror, we can always settle for the miracles occurring around us each moment of the
day by looking out and upwards.
A slot canyon thrown in for extra pleasure; it's rare the sun penetrates Echo Canyon.
"The long and winding road," one of the paths 'etched' into the cliff, taking one over the top.
Bighorn sheep, a first for us in Zion. More and more, we appreciate the concept of four legs. (Next life?)
The Observation Point hike is one of those experiences that encompass all aspects one can expect of nature
on a single hike. It climbs 2,200 feet although it feels a lot more than that over an 8-miles return trail.
Beauty abounds at each step of the way as one goes alongside a slot canyon, up and down steep gradients,
on outside edges and always, always surrounded by massive cliffs and slabs, many with colorful growth protruding.
Although it was our fifth time at Observation Point, it's a hike a person should undertake on a regular basis.
Like all other hiking experiences, each time it’s different. Zion National Park, which we have always felt,
is another treasure of this country. It is more than a place in time; it seems to have another dimension tucked within
those giant slabs. Perhaps, a majestic aura permeates from its secluded areas high above the canyon—whatever it is,
it's unique.
Taking it all in from a great vantage point 'a little off trail', about half-way up.
The slots of Utah.
Perhaps because the hike is supreme or for whatever reason, we powered up those cliffs at a fast pace,
completing the distance in 90 minutes. The energy abounded, driving us strongly while still having time
for photographs and always, taking in the sights. Should someone inquire as to a day-hike that meets the
criteria of superior, this is it. By the way, from near the top, the view down the canyon which includes
Angels Landing, is superb. Finally, there are always disadvantages no matter how gorgeous a place might be.
Many people visit the park which of course, selfishly speaking, detracts slightly from the experience.
However, by choosing the difficult hikes and/or visiting early, even this obstacle can be obviated.
We intend to hike the 'Angel' at daybreak on the morrow to test the premise. Hold tight!
"Hey! I dropped my water bottle. Would you mind passing it back up."
The 'infamous Angel Landing' viewed from Observation Point (see you tomorrow, Angel).
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
There's fine line between flying and 'showing off'. We are still searching for it.
No comments:
Post a Comment