Zion National Park

Our night in Zion National Park campground was very interesting. The canyon got very windy. While our tent was secure, the noise of the flaps and the wind made sleeping interesting. We made coffee, had something to eat and then packed up. We considered doing a hike in the Virgin River where we definitely would get wet, but the temps were only in the 60's. Instead we hiked the Angels Landing trail to Scout Lookout. It was a very steep climb with a lot of switchbacks. The views were worth it though. Unfortunately, at this time of year you need a permit to go the additional .5 mile to Angels Landing. This distance is over rock with chains built in to assist hikers. It is also a one way trail so a group goes up and then comes back before the next group goes. We couldn't get permits so we just had to watch others make the climb. After a snack we headed back down. It is easier on the heart but harder on the knees going down. At the bottom we soaked our feet in the river. We walked to the Zion Lodge and had a well deserved beer. After that we rode the bus along the scenic road. Only buses are allowed on the road. Returning to the visitor center we found our car and headed to Page, AZ where we had secured a hotel. On our way out of the park we were stopped by a herd of mountain sheep coming over the hill and crossing the road!!Our takes on Zion NP - it is a very nice park with very majestic looking rock formations, but a very popular one. We were not impressed with their transit system though it got us where we needed to be. It is one of those parks where getting there early before the crowds is a great idea .Read more