It was actually an unplanned trip to Utah, but when we were informed the weather there was fine, we proceeded to drive to the most visited Zion National Park.
From our place, Orange County, we first passed by Las Vegas and saw the Rebotons-Dr. Jonathan and wife Beth. We were billeted at the Monte Carlo hotel & Casino for two days and as usual, had camaraderie with Jon and Beth and had “all you can eat” dinner at a nearby hotel.
Early the next day, we had a little shopping in one of Vegas’ outlets. After which, we drove all the way to Utah with Gerry Du (our son-in-law) at the wheel, Fiza and son Jason. Evening came and we had dinner in one of the Chinese restaurants along their resto row. To our surprise, when Gerry ordered a bottle of beer, he was told that “no liquor is served” after six. So we just proceeded to our hotel - the Marriott.
The following day we drove to the Zion National Park, the place where I believe is more amazing than Grand Canyon. Reason why we had to drive hours and hours just to see this most fabulous place. Winding along the scenic north fork of the Virgin River, the scenic drive through Zion Canyon is nothing short of spectacular. Hiking trails lead to lofty viewpoints and unexpected waterfalls. As visitors and tourists searched for the entrance to the Hidden Canyon, we reached and felt the cool moisture of the Weeping Rock. It’s truly amazing to see water flowing from the middle of a solid rock.
Then there’s the Great White Throne, one of Zion National Park’s most recognized features. Its spectacular perpendicular walls, soaring cliffs and majestic colors are typical of Utah’s oldest national park. A stately Ponderosa pine tree, a peacefully grazing mule doe and her fawn (Jason kept chasing the little ones), the vibrantly beautiful Indian paintbrush flowers are also familiar features of Zion, one of the “crown jewels” preserved in the U.S. National Park System. Zion Canyon was set aside as Mukuntiweap National Movement in 1909 and became Zion National Park in 1919.
Zion National Park is much more than just a recreational destination. It is a sanctuary of national and cultural resources…a living museum for all the world! Conserving this heritage is a task the National Park Service cannot accomplish alone. All of us serve a critical role in maintaining Zion’s “sanctuary” for the future!