Zion Day 2 May 25, 2011

Zion National Park 

 

 One of the first things you notice about Zion is, of course, the massive rocks jutting up from the ground against the bright, blue sky. Sculpted and fierce, they inspire oooh and aaahs and cause you to wonder about the forces that carved them.  Truly remarkable examples of the power of wind, water, and freezing temperatures...all have a part in the creation of these monoliths. All done thru the fleeting passage of time...before our very eyes.

Along with the blue sky and monolith rock formations are the lush green plants and trees.  Zion reminds me of the Garden of Eden with the bounty of green foliage.  The green is so bright set against the rust red of the rock...the depth and variety of colors makes me wish I had the talent to paint this.  I'll just have to be happy with Jay's wonderful photography skills to capture and print in all its glory. 

Waterfall seen from Riverside Walk

I must have walked around here with my mouth open for most of the day during this walk.  Every corner we turned around I was in awe of the pure enormity of the rocks, the rich reds and tans and the contrast of the green trees and grass.  I felt like a kid discovering a treasured secret.

Cut outs like this one are caused by the freezing and thawing cycle and the water seeping thru the sandstone which eventually weakens and pieces sheer off.  The plants find places within the crevices to take hold and grow and, in this instance, a little pond has formed below as well. You can see where the rock remains wet with the melting water seeping thru.

Jay getting set up to take a shot.  He's just so cute!

The Virgin River is responsible for carving most of Zion and this year it is very active.  It is the highest its been for this time of year in over a decade and it is definitely a force to respect.  In fact, The Narrows, which is the hike that continues on from the Riverwalk is currently closed since the river is so high and fierce. What a beautiful site it is! 

These are little cairns are built and left by people in memory of those they have lost.  There were hundreds lining the river.  Apparently its expected that the rise of the river with wash them away as time passes...

My cairn in memory of people dear to us that have passed on.

Jay with his tripod right on the edge of the river taking shots of the white water.  He has learned to take some great water picture in the photography classes he is taking.

This is a great example of the forces of wind and ice on this rock face.  The numerous grooves are almost like the life circles of trees

Rock climber--yes, there was quite a crowd watching

We had a great time in Zion.  We are looking forward to returning with the kids and spending a lot more time hiking and exploring the wonder and beauty we found there.  Who knows, we may even get up enough nerve to do Angel's Landing!