7/21 – 7/28/2024 – On 7/21 we packed up and drove to Bryce Zion Campground near Glendale, UT. The campground is located conveniently between Bryce Canyon NP and Zion NP. We arrived early afternoon and after setting up we hung out with our friends and planned the upcoming week.
Monday we did laundry and stayed at the campground.
Tuesday, Maria and I drove to Cedar City and did our grocery shopping in the morning. In the afternoon I went with Kelly and Chris to Zion NP. This was the second time I was there, however the first time the park was overrun by visitors and we were not able to take the shuttle bus to get to the end of the canyon. This time it was a little quieter and we parked at the visitor center and rode the shuttle all the was=y to the end. All I can say is that pictures do not do justice of the depth and beauty of the canyon.
Wednesday we drove to Bryce Canyon and stopped at some of the overlooks within the park. Bryce Amphitheater is very impressive with lots of Hoodoos in a variety of size, shape and colors. Unfortunately it started to rain pretty heavy, so our stops were short, but the views were still breathtaking.
Thursday and Friday were slow days with spending time with our friends playing games and having a good time.
Saturday morning we got up early and headed into Zion. Even-though we entered the park before 8AM the parking lot was already filling up. We took the shuttle bus to the end of the canyon and some of us hiked the Riverwalk and then ventured into the Narrows. The Narrows are a “slot canyon” with a river flowing through.The hike is following the river and most of the time you are walking in the water. The water was pretty cold and we turned around after the water was knee high and going further would have brought the water up to our chest. Non of us brought a second set of cloth and we said that next time we are in the area we will be better prepared. We hiked the Kayenta trail and then to the Middle Emerald Pool trail. The Middle Emerald Pool was a little underwhelming (small pond) but had lots of Tadpoles. After a nice Picnic we headed back to the campground and enjoyed a quiet late afternoon and evening.
Sunday morning we packed up and headed towards Salt Lake City. Our campground is located within Deer Creek State Park about 10 miles east of Provo.
Until next update,
Maria and Bernhard
