Contrasts of golden Zion.
We left Bryce Canyon, Utah for Hurricane via a second stopover in Zion National Park. The idea was to hike Observation Point trail in the park and then sleep in Hurricane for a few nights. We've always maintained that Observation is one of the finest day-hikes around. One of the reasons it's special is because it's in Zion, a place that is remarkable. With its towering walls and monoliths, the incredible canyon, the Virgin River, colors and shapes that at times look artificial and so much more, one cannot help but walk the park in awe. On the hike, much of what was described is on view, plus it's a great workout including distance of 8 miles and an elevation gain of well over 2,000 feet. We still believe the gain is understated. It does not get better than this.
When we loaded our car in Bryce at about 8am, the temperature was 23F, which is cold. Even Ron Allegretto would agree and he's probably the subtle motivating force for our sojourn in snow. Thanks to him, a gentleman and quite a guy from Vancouver, we decided to commit to a snow adventure. At the end of the hike, the temperature had reached 66 degrees.
En route, we were meandering along the 89 South thinking of Zion and the upcoming hike when we spotted a large bird on the side of the highway. We pulled off the road but only just. I got out and looked for what I thought was an eagle. It took evasive action. I grabbed a camera and trotted carefully toward the spot where I had noticed it. The bird took off and fortunately perched itself in a tree, giving me clear visibility. How ever long I spent watching, clicking and absorbing the sight, it was not long enough. Jen remained in the car. The vehicle was not parked in the best of positions and we still had to get to the summit of Observation Point. The bird moved positions three times, each occasion providing a different perspective.
When one talks of dignity and strength, it's not hard to spot it in an eagle. Suffice to say, for the rest of the day, I had a particular satisfying feeling having spent part of it in the company of a majestic creature. As for the hike, it together with Angel's Landing are two that we undertake each time we visit the location. Observation Point, in fact, overlooks the 'Angel', being at least six or seven hundred feet higher. Both provide much enjoyment while on them and a most satisfying feeling upon returning 'home' at the end of the day.
"Bald, bold and beautiful; always proud to be an American symbol. Perhaps we can learn from this
majestic creature. To make a nation great, a good start is for the people to seek and pursue dignity."
"And that goes for me, too...not the bald part though and maybe not a symbol."
"I feel so blue. There's much confusion down below."
"Enough already. Why is it when I look at you I'm thinking lunch?"
"I'm off for a flight 'on the wings of an eagle'. Little ones, take a hike!"
"Houston, we've landed. I think we have a problem. I'm at the wrong branch."
"Phew! I'm back. Tucked in my wings correctly, for a change."
"I'll show you a little color of my Utah."
Getting back to 'real birds', Jen makes her way along a narrow ledge. Looks like she's going to hit a wall
Resting at top of Observation Point with Angels Landing behind and below, plus a view down the canyon. The slab
at rear is where we climbed to the previous week.
Some things don't change. The great walls of Zion.
Reflections in the canyon.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
"Cheers from me, too. I believe I made Jeffrey's day...and more."
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