June 30 - July 1
I don't think there is an adequate word for my feelings about the Canyonlands. If I learned anything its that there is so much beauty in our country! There was so much more we could have done if we were serious backpackers or off road vehicle people. I'm thinking our little rental mini-van wasn't adequately equipped to take on some of the 4 wheel drive only trails!
By this time we had established some great rules for the road. Kids could use screens for entertainment, but once in the national parks all turned off. They got awarded points for good behavior and lost points for bad. If, at the end of the day, they had over 10 points they got a prize (usually ice cream or something) worked like a charm!!!
We drove into canyonlands and started with the Island in the Sky side first. It was longer and took an entire day with all the stops. It was mostly driving but the scenery was incredible! Zach was interested in the science behind how the rocks were formed and they all loved getting two stamps in their books!
Just like Mesa Verde the second day was the best. It was slightly overcast and not overwhelmingly hot. We started with some photo ops at the vistors center.
This was the day we did the 2-ish mile hike all along the rim of the canyon. This was yet another day of me cringing, constantly grabbing, and pulling kids away from the edge of the RAVINE that was right next to the trail...no barriers, no ropes, just a wrong step and rocky floor...my palms are still sweating. THAT being said - the kids LOVED it. The rangers stack little rock piles for you to follow to find the trail. If you see the bluff waaaaaaay off in the distance on the top right we hiked to that and climbed to the top. The boys couldn't wait to try and climb every rock. I walked the line between safety and fun - and I think they will always remember this hike!
After an already full day, we decided to squeeze in Arches National Park (half.) Its amazing the difference in topography just a few miles away from Canyonlands. We hiked in and saw the Pine Tree Arch, ate snacks and waited while some tourists spent about 10 minutes trying to perfectly frame themselves in the Arch before we got the one with Gramma Rue :) Arches was FAR more crowded than Canyonlands. My guess is because it is slightly easier to navigate and older. Canyonlands was built in the 50s and is not for the faint of heart!
We finished the day in yet another pool. We were staying in Moab in a condo. While the pool water was somewhat questionable when it came to chemical levels - the kids didn't care, and survived - so I guess all is well!!
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