Eight years ago, during the time that we like to call "the great migration", our foursome visited Bryce Canyon for the first time and were completely enthralled with the beauty of the area. We had determined that before we make our next move we would revisit a few of the places that we enjoyed so much then.
Our visit to Bryce was short, as there were not many hikes that we could feasibly take with two babies in the time that we had allotted for that park. We were able to visit a little waterfall, Mossy Cave, and Fairyland; three of the more popular scenic spots in the park. It never ceases to amaze me that God is such a brilliant artist and that we can enjoy and glory in His breathtaking creation!
We drove a few more hours on to Zion National Park, a family favorite. We had been aching to go back for years and were so excited to finally be there. Passengers in the blue car had an ear-full of my ravings as I chanted, "I could live here. Look at that house! Isn't this gorgeous?! Oh, I would love to live here." The drive was perfect, even though we didn't stop to enjoy the scenery. Instead we drove through into St. George to have a final meal with the Williams' before we parted Saturday evening.On Sunday our family returned to Zion for the day. We were so anxious to start hiking. Our favorite hike is up the Narrows. We were ready to tackle the river when we found out that there was a high risk of flash flooding. How disappointing! We reluctantly hopped on the shuttle and examined the map for an alternative hike. We chose Hidden Canyon, a 2 mile trek up the Wiggles (19 switchbacks) and through a small narrow valley. As we began the hike we were all fairly indifferent. By the time we saw the chains anchored in the canyon walls and the 2 foot wide path winding around the tip of an otherwise sheer rock face, we were slobbering like children in a candy store.
At one point we found this little space between the rocks that looked quite adventurous. We decided to climb up and have lunch at the top. Needless to say we did more than just eat up there. Again, in true McGehee family style, we decided that it was incumbent upon us to provide a little entertainment for other hikers who found themselves below us on the trail. If you have ever heard Dale impersonate a "mad" cow, you can just imagine what it might sound like resonating through a canyon. Collier also added his own touch with an inflated plastic bag and thus we created quite a scene by "shooting" the "mad" cow.
Half way through the day we were at a loss for what to do. We consulted a park ranger on the condition of the Narrows since the sky appeared to be clear at 3pm. He gave us a very encouraging report and we excitedly set off to use the second half of our day in the river. As we expected, it was a blast! We seemed to be enjoying the water more than most hikers. I cannot tell you how many unbelieving glances we received as we all dove into the icy cold water. We found a few deep spots and launched ourselves off the rocky canyon walls into the current. Once we attracted a large group of Indian tourists who joined us in making cannonballs.
Collier and I shoved ourselves into this little hole in the canyon wall. I seem to remember that we might have taken a picture here eight years ago when the river was a little higher...and we were much smaller! We tried to get Mom in too, but it was a bit too small for all three of us.What a day! We were thrilled with what we were able to do and see again after so long! Maybe there will be time for one more trip out to Zion before we head back east!
Until Next Time,
Chelsey for the McGehee's
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