What a start

We left Phoenix on Monday and drove as far as Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff. We had an awesome time. We did a 5 mile hike in Oak Creek and then about a 3 mile hike back at Fort Tuthill. Our Yurt was wonderful and we put our bed on the floor so we could stare up thru the skylight at the stars. A truly magical evening. Then we spent 2 days at Zion in southern Utah. It was great staying at the lodge in the park and we had some great hikes. We hiked(well, almost) Angel Landing which is a strenous 5 mile round trip hike. The first 2 miles is fairly strenous and uphill. The next .5 is straight uphill and requires the use of chains to pull yourself up. We made it the first .1 to a lookout and then decided after looking at the trail go straight up that we were older and wiser and stopped there. Good decision. We also hiked the narrows which is hiking thru a canyon where you have to wade through the water. It was fantastic and the views were awesome. The last morning we did a 3 mile hike to the emerald pools. We left Zion and then drove to Bryce canyon. We did a 3 miles hike into the canyon that was great and provide some awesome views. The next day we left Bryce and instead of taking the most diect way we went the scenic route that provide awesome views and scenery although it did take much longer. We arrived in Moab, Utah that afternoon and checked in to our hotel and then immediately drove to Canyonland National Park. It also was pretty cool and there was a storm while we were there which added a little treat. The next day was probably the highlight so far. We went white water rafting on the Colorado River with Class 3 & 4 rapids. It was unbelievable. Tomoorow we are going to do Arches National Park and the southern end of Canyonland National Park. We have not had internet service for a few days so this is the first chance I have to add an entry.