Wandering Retirees

Zion National Park

 We woke to a beautiful day, a bit cool but very clear. To celebrate we hopped on the bike and headed north to Zion National Park, about 35 miles away. (North on US 89, then west on Utah Rt. 9) our goal was to hike a short “easy” trail not far into the park. The ride was easy and fun with lots of sweeping turns that are so pleasing.   

The trailhead is about 300 yards from a huge tunnel that connects the north and south ends. We parked along the side of the road and climbed out of our riding gear. (Takes a little practice and looks kind of funny, but necessary to keep from roasting.) And off we went. We found the trail was not really that easy, and belatedly discovered it is labeled as a moderately difficult climb. Steep stone steps start the path and we skirted some sharp drops, imposing stone overhangs (grottos?) and narrow ledges. We just took our time and it was so worth it! Connie has posted pics from the trail and the scenic overlook: majestic mountains, sheer rock faces, and monstrous rockfalls. But there is so much life that has found a way to take hold and thrive in this austere environment. Such beautiful, delicate flowers have found niches to take root. And chipmunks looking for a handout. (A no-no in the Parks.) Such a contrast between august majesty dating from 140 million years ago, and delicate but tenacious life. Wow.

Of course we started talking. There’s a pic of three men from Belgium (Antwerp) who are on a two week holiday. Stefan and Rafael (left and center) are headed to Vegas to contribute to the gaming economy, while Thomas (right) is renting a fast car to tool around the desert. He is also researching the possible import of American pickups to Belgium. They seem to be popular, especially F-150s.) We met Derek and Stephanie from California who are taking six months to explore the country. Much younger, their travel adventures are starting at the other end of adult life. They were riding today and we spent lots of time saying admiring things about our rides. Imagine that. And we met Bob, a great grandfather who moved to Kanab with his family in 1976. They were on vacation and found this area so beautiful that they up and moved from Norristown, PA. He made quite the sales pitch, but we love living in easy reach of kids, friends and the culture available on the East Coast. We’ll keep to our plan and return to our home.

As I said, we had an easy ride today. We’re sitting comfortably with our favorite adult beverages and awaiting the arrival of the Askew’s and Pat. Nice day drawing to a close.

Flora and Fauna of Zion

More friends … Derek from California, and the three amigos from Belgium.

Thanks for seeing us!