Arches & Canyonlands National Park, Utah

The national parks in Utah are something else! Each one is different, but all have wonderful red, massive rock foundations, multi-layers of different colors of rock and sediment, hoo-doos (self-standing formations), arches, buttes, domes, canyons. We are constantly amazed around every corner. We have enjoyed drives, hikes, (probably 2-3 mile moderate or easy trail hikes every day), picnics, and more photos than I know what to do with! The vivid color does't get picked up by these photos -- they range from a chocolate red to blood red, burnt orange, yellow, green-blue, grey, beige, white -- layered sediment or rock everywhere. Walking in the fine red sand is a treat, until the wind picks up, that is. Then it stings as it blows in our faces, and "tastes" crunchy, which was one afternoon's experience. Mostly the weather has been pleasant and sunny during the days, with some light winds in afternoon.

The wildflowers and natural "landscaping" have been so appealing--I'd love to create a backyard with red rock, weathered wood, yellow and purple wildflowers. Unforutunately, can't take the weathered wood pieces home with me, so I keep photograhing them! And the red rock--not too abundant in Santa Rosa area!

Moab, where we are staying (between Arches and Canyonlands) is an outdoor sports paradise. From here, people rent 4-wheel jeeps to get into the back country or go backpacking on foot, bicycling, white water rafting (Colorado and Green Rivers converge near here), canyoneering, horseback riding, sky diving. The highest mountains in Utah, which still have snow on them, are visible from Moab, and our RV park.

So much more to see -- we just don't have the time to get to more now. We could spend many more weeks exploring these wonderful national parks; we love all these natural wonders. But we will be leaving Utah now for a visit with friends in Colorado.