50.03 Parowan, Utah: Valentine Peak. Nothing loving about this tough fella but still wonderful.

Early days in a beautiful environment on a particularly tough hike.
Jenni getting close to the end (trailhead) as the coloring changes from grey, white and now red.

In the very early stages of the hike we met two elderly men, residents of Parowan, the only other persons on the trail over nearly five hours. They were sitting on a bench absorbing and viewing the tranquility and beauty respectively. It was most refreshing to talk with real gentlemen. It helped take our minds off the chaos overtaking the country, which we find to be a 'creeping darkness'. As we focused on the small town below and the cemetery in particular, the elder of the two mentioned that he was born on Main Street, lived his whole life there and intends to die on the same street. While this may sound unusual, (some might even think macabre), but related the way he did while we viewed the beautiful cemetery lawns below, actually made much sense. 

While we understand the needs and desires of people to attach themselves to the big cities and concrete jungles (and of course, 'the ballet'), the tranquility and peace of small towns such as Parowan make sense for two old hikers on their way down but not quite out. How life and expectations change. (See picture below, telephoto.) 

If ever a cemetery was positioned appropriately, this is it. As an aside, it was lush and most attractive...it helps...we think.
An hour or so from the peak ahead, grueling at times.
Jenni reaches the peak and then...
Calls for brunch after finding limited shade.
A few shots of the beautiful surround.

Pack it in, pack it out—or pack it under. Trying to be useful...not often successful.
Another treacherous scree slope.
Displaying some nervousness?
'Twinkle-toes' reaches the peak. (One small step for...)
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey