The Agnew Family aboard the "Dog House"

Last night we spoke with Colin and Margaret and all four of us wanted to hike down into the canyon so we decided to get up early and hike before we packed up the trailers ready to head to Zion (it’s only 85 miles). The hike was incredible even though it was fairly short — 1 ½ miles. The first third of the hike was a steep downhill, the middle third was flattish and the final third was a steep uphill. Walking among the hoodoos made you feel very small and somewhat claustrophobic. There were trees growing along side the hoodoos that were very tall and only had branches and leaves at the very top. The more open valley on the middle part of the trail had a number of trees and plants. .

The drive to Zion was pleasant with a lot of downhill — good fuel economy. The “interesting” part of the drive was the mile long tunnel followed by several hairpin turns. The tunnel through the mountain was built in the 1930's when vehicles were smaller. Large vehicles (all RVs) needed to have an escort through the tunnel at a cost of $15 (the alternative route would cost more than $15 in fuel). We didn’t actually get an “escort” — there are two park rangers, one at each end of the tunnel and they stop traffic so large vehicles can drive down the middle of the tunnel. The tunnel itself is pretty amazing and there are several large openings that give you views of the canyon but of course you can’t stop to enjoy the view.

On the edge of the park is the town of Springdale (tiny but cute) where we found a campground.



Walking down the Navajo trail -- Can you find Margaret and Frances?


The tall trees in the canyon.



Looking up from the bottom of the canyon.


the "twin" bridges



Thors Hammer.