Zion

We entered Zion from the east and went through the historic Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.  When you exit the tunnel you get a wonderful view of the Zion Canyon below.

Our first hike was the Riverside Walk that starts at the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle.  The Riverside is an easy sand covered paved trail the ends at the famous Narrows.

We strapped on our Keen water sandles and up the Virgin River we splashed as the canyon walls got closer and closer together.  

A short way up the river we got to a section that was 3 to 4 ft deep.  Most turned back but I took it as an opportunity to take a swim in the 64F water.  

The kids had a great time.  They said it was the best hike they had been on "ever".  Dad did good.

Back at the Riverside Walk trail, we found a tree to dry our bags, shoes, and clothing before hiking back to the bus.

Next we too the bus to Weeping Rock.  

For our last hike we wanted to do the Lower Emerald Pool hike but the trail was closed due to a rock slide.  Instead we took the Kayenta Trail to the Emerald Pools.  This was a 2 mile rocky hike along the edge of the mountain with views of the Virgin River and the Zion Lodge.

By the end of our hike to the Emerald Pools we headed back into Springdal for lunch and to the hotel to cool down at the Desert Pearl pool.

We left Zion the same way we entered through the historic tunnel headed to Bryce Canyon.  Before we left Zion National Park we got to see a couple of mountain goats and the Checkerboard Mesa.