Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Zion National Park

Jim and I went with Gretchen and Brian to Zion National Park Monday and Tuesday. It was an outstanding trip. Both Jim and I said that although we had been to Zion previously, we forget just how awesome it is.

We arrived Monday afternoon to a little cooler weather than we had been experiencing lately, as evidenced by the hiking gear. The wind was pretty strong and chilly.


We chose to hike the Angel's Landing trail, marked strenuous. After about twenty five minutes I decided that the title was apt. This was the one that got away.

Looking at the mountain from the trail head

Looking back from the spot where I gave up. I went slowly back down the path, enjoying the quiet and beauty of the mountain. I took a short side trip to the bank of the Virgin River. I so love being near water. Oceans, rivers, lakes, all give me a sense of peace and tranquility.


I made my way back to the car where I did my crossword puzzle and relaxed while I waited for them make their way back. Jim was really happy he made the trip. This failure has made me more than ever determined to lose more weight. And, I have decided to go back to Curves. I just don't have the endurance necessary to do the things I'd like.

On Tuesday, Gretchen and Brian decided to hike to Observation Point, an eight mile round trip which Jim and I opted to take a moderate hike to a lovely overlook.

This might just be the Christmas card this year!


Mount Carmel Highway from the overlook.

Standing in the cleft of the rock.
These pines just grow out of the sides of the mountains.





Jim and I had lunch at Wild Cat Willie's Bar and Grille. Loved the decor. The sign applies to some people I know, how about you?

As You can see, we had a great time. Hope you are having a great day too.

~Hippo Hugs~

6 comments:

Country Mouse, City Mouse said...

Gorgeous photos!! I think that would make an excellent Christmas card this year. Sorry you weren't able to make that hike. I used to go to Curves, and really enjoyed it. It has moved and I can actually see it from my window now.

Hope all is well! Looking forward to your next update.

Nancy said...

Don't be so hard on yourself, Pam. You should be proud of all the hiking you have done thus far! Looked like a fun way to get in touch with Nature, but I'd be scared of wildcats and snakes out there in the desert!

That pic would make a beautiful Christmas card! Nice that you all share the love of outdoors like that and can do it together.

Loved that sign at Wild Cat's Bar and Grille! Holy Moly!!! ha-ha

((( HUGS )))

Renie Burghardt said...

Hi Pam,

Well, wow, what gorgeous shots of a beautiful place. That picture of Jim and you would be a great Christmas card. What a fantastic overlook. In my book, you did extremely well on that hike! And what a funny sign at the Wild Cat Bar and Grille.

I enjoyed your beautiful pictures from Zion National Park, and look forward to your next adventure. By the way, what kind of wildlife inhabit the park? Just curious. Take care!

Hugs,

Renie

Tracy said...

Hi Pam - Your pictures are amazing! Are you sure you're ever going to come home???
By the way, think I could have a sign like the one in the last picture for the library? ha-ha

Monogram Queen said...

Not a fan of hiking (I admit i'm inherently lazy) but I love the shots and the scenery.

I love that sign. Hub swears he will say those very words to all of our daughters potential suitors

Winifred said...

What great photos. Love your choice of Christmas card, it's brilliant.

I'm lazy too, my only walking is on the machine in the gym. That way I don't get cold and wet!