Bryce Canyon National Park

This morning we left Hatch, Utah for a short 40 minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. What can I say about this masterpiece of nature.....this grand American vista that just oozes wonder, awe, and possibility. The fantastic spirals and rocks jut out of the landscape and the rawness of the place just leaves your soul bare. Words and pictures cannot describe the unimaginable beauty that we saw here today. After arriving at the park, the Park Ranger suggested we take this six mile figure eight loop that guided us into the deep recesses of the Canyon. At every turn of the trail, the scenery would change, and once you thought you had scene it all, another bodacious rock formation would rise vividly out of the wilderness. Much of the trail had hard-packed snow and Alexandra was constantly slipping and sliding down the paths. In total, she probably fell into the snow about twenty times. At some points it seemed that she was just standing there, moved one foot, and fell on her buttocks. It was very amusing; I only slipped once but I guess I have more experience in the snow than Alexandra does. Along the way, we ran into many like-minded hikers as ourselves with the acute difference that they were actually wearing hiking shoes. For whatever reason, Alexandra and I love jumping into situations unprepared which is kind of sad because the Army always preaches preparation. You may recall our Oregon hiking experience when we were walking around with jeans and semi-casual shoes which had no business being walked in. We were hiking around the park in our tennis shoes and by the end of the trip, they were totally soaked. One of these days, I am going to go to an outdoor store and actually buy some good equipment. Anyway, once we finished our walk at Bryce, we had a delicious lunch of sandwiches and headed back back onto the road. Tonight, we arrived in Green River which is a sleepy town right off the highway. Tomorrow we will be heading to Arches National Park and then onward to Denver. The day after tomorrow.....all I can say is this American road-trip continues northeast with many more stops along the way, new areas to explore, and old and new friends to meet along the way.