Monday, May 23, 2011

Zion: Day 2

The Virgin River cuts through Zion -- literally. It created the canyon, and much of the amazing scenery that we enjoy today. The river, of course, had some help from volcanoes, wind, and water!


On Sunday, we took a short, 1 mile hike that paralleled the Virgin. The trail would normally have continued into a slot canyon, but the river is running quite high so entry into the Narrows was forbidden.

On our way, we passed the Three Prophets rock formation:

I took the "Obligatory Cute Mammal" photo:


And also the "Not-So-Cute Mammal" photo:

Everyone always says that squirrels are just rats with pretty tails -- now you be the judge!

When we got to the end of trail, we found several large cairns had been created at the point the river curves into the Narrows:

On the trip back, we stopped at Zion Lodge for a couple local microbrews. I had Virgin Stout and John had Polygamy Porter (actual names!). We got to chatting with another couple, Bob and Lisa, who were on their way up to Yellowstone. If you're reading this, have a great trip!



As we were driving home, we spotted a shoe tree. No, not that kind. The other kind:


I'm sure there's a reason for it... and I'm sure I don't have any idea what it is!

1 comment:

Judy Rinehimer said...

Loved both of your postings. My niece is there NOW, too. Their names are Susan & Richard Valente, from LaPine, OR and they are in a tent trailer camped with a couple of class As. They will all have Oregon license plates. She has a wonderful, infectious smile and laugh. IF you should cross paths, tell her hello from Aunt CoolJudy.