Zion National Park, Day 3

As expected, the weather was great today, primarily for ducks and firefighters. Fairly constant rain tried to stop us, but we decided to make lemonade from the lemons and do some exploring by car. Because the satellite showed more rain near Escalante than in the south, we decided to shift our plans and head out to Zion. As it turned out we caught a small window of sunshine and blue sky before the clouds rolled back in.

We entered Zion from the east entrance which, it turns out, is the most scenic route. The rain ended before we reached the park and didn’t start again until we had completed the drive and finished our lunch at a lovely picnic area facing The Watchman, one of Zion’s most iconic landmarks. We were astounded at the beauty of the park and cannot wait to explore it more thoroughly on foot.

Once we finished our picnic we decided to hop on the park’s shuttle which took us on a route closed to cars during the peak season. It was a nice opportunity for Bailey to observe rather than drive, and featured a nice overview of the park’s history and the features of each of the scenic stops.

While today’s window was small, I did manage to capture a few lovely scenes along our drive (no tripod this time out) from the small turnout areas. Hopefully these will whet your appetite as they have mine.

I must admit that given the limitations of the weather and the roadside restrictions, I have fallen short of conveying the grandeur of Zion. The colors, the massive peaks, the shear rock walls, the textures, all combine in a breathtaking array of beauty. Hopefully our next foray into the heart of the park will better reveal its splendor.

11 thoughts on “Zion National Park, Day 3”

diane on April 22, 2017 at 10:30 am said:

I see splendor through your images !
That stubborn pine is cool. Thanks for taking us along on your vaca!

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Kathy Keane on July 16, 2012 at 7:15 pm said:

All the photos have been wonderful. Was very surprised when you said–no tripod, on day three. They are sharp, and the colors are perfect. Can’t wait for the Grand Canyon. Kathy Keane

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- trschell on July 17, 2012 at 1:09 am said:
  
  Thanks Kathy! Steady hands 🙂
  
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Amy on July 15, 2012 at 11:26 pm said:

I’ve enjoyed all 3 days of photos and commentary. A beautiful,travelogue, both intellectually and visually.

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- trschell on July 15, 2012 at 11:47 pm said:
  
  Thanks Aime! More to come 🙂
  
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Wilma on July 15, 2012 at 3:39 pm said:

I’m traveling vicariously via your wonderful photos. That area of our beautiful country has such amazing vistas and topography. Sorry the weather is not being too cooperative…but I’m sure the wonderment of being there is not compromised. Enjoy and keep the photos coming! Wilma

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- trschell on July 15, 2012 at 11:48 pm said:
  
  Thanks Wilma! While there have been (much needed) showers, we’ve worked around them nicely so no real problems. Just happy the wildfires were put out before we arrived! Thanks for following me 🙂
  
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april kanew on July 15, 2012 at 12:31 pm said:

absolutely Fascinating……what an adventure!! ENJOY!!

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- trschell on July 15, 2012 at 11:52 pm said:
  
  Thanks April. Magnificent country out here! Hope VT is treating you well.
  
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thebigbookofdating on July 15, 2012 at 11:55 am said:

I love these photos! great post (:

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- trschell on July 19, 2012 at 10:39 am said:
  
  Thanks for visiting!
  
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