Trip taken August 2020

Zion National Park is a special place to visit and explore. It’s not hard to understand why Mormon settlers felt a spiritual connection to the land when they arrived in the mid-19th century and used religious references such as Towers of the Virgins, Tabernacle Dome, the Three Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) to name areas of the park. ~ “Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein

But the park’s human (and spiritual) history goes back much further, first to the Ancestral Puebloans and then to the Southern Paiute people who’ve been stewards of this land since it was known as Oawingwa—“a place where the stream flows.” After one of our hikes 🧗‍♂️, we lounged in these cool waters; however, in the summer bacterial blooms are common so follow the warning signs 🪧 as to not end up with a bad rash or worse at the hospital.

Of Utah’s five national parks, Zion stands out for its geological wonders, a place where water and sand meet to form arguably the most dramatic landscape in the country. Here’s our primer on how to see it all, from big hits like Zion Canyon and the Narrows to the gems many visitors overlook.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

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Pro Tip: There are many reason to visit Zion which we will list; albeit, timing ⏱ when you visit is crucial. In July and the summer months, the crowds are immense and it’s hot.🥵 Well, you are in a red rock desert. Many of the hikes require taking shuttles and waiting in line. Did I mention lots of people. With Covid 19 in full swing we opted to skip many of our planned hikes such as Angel 😇 Landing (closed when we arrived) for lesser known destinations within the park. If one can visit Zion when less crowded we highly recommend; however, just driving through the park is a thrill and a must do.

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Watchman campground is located 1/4 miles from South entrance and offers 190 options for camping: ⛺️ There is NO full hookup but there is a dump station. Generators are not permitted. 69 campsites are for tent camping only which cost $20 a night. We camped on one of the electric ⚡️ only sites for $30 a night. The restrooms were very clean but a constant roulette game of closing a bathroom for cleaning 🧹 and the other bathroom was on other side of park. Not a fun walk if one ☝️ waits to long for a rest stop and picks a bathroom being cleaned. We will definitely be back but would chose a time with less people.

Hiking trail ~ the Good, the Hard, and the insane

Weeping Rock Trail 🪨 Shortest Trail in the park .5 mile. 👍 Lush hanging gardens that are continually moist due to a constant water flow from the canyons above.
A unique view of the Great White Throne to the upper left can be seen when standing behind the dripping water and looking out.
Mostly Paved. Highly recommend.

Best time to hike

*Year Round
*Portions can be closed in winter due to falling ice.
*Spring and Fall provide the most water flow.
*Summer can be very crowded.

SECRETS/TIPS

Steps by the hiker’s bridge also provide access to the stream below. This is very popular with children. We did not venture into the water here due to the algae blooms in this area but rest next to the water after our hike was refreshing.

UPPER EMERALD POOLS Trail ~ 3 MILES

HIGHLIGHTS

If you start at the Zion Lodge you will pass right by the Lower Emerald Pools (first 0.6 miles) and Middle Emerald Pools (another 0.2 miles) on your way to the Upper Emerald Pools. We stopped to explore the lodge; however, there were so many people we did not enter and ventured to Lower Emerald pool to explore this hiking trail but turned back as no one seemed to want to wear a mask 😷.
Another way to hike Emerald Pool – you can start from the Kayenta Trail starting at the Grotto Shuttle Stop (stop 6) to add another mile to your trip for a different less-traveled way to get there.
The Middle Emerald Pools Trail was closed due to a 2010 rockslide and continuing instability but can still be seen on your way to the Upper Emerald Pools via either starting points.
The trail past the paved Lower Emerald pools trail is dirt, sand, more rugged and rock covered.
Waterfalls, beautiful alcoves, and natural pools can be seen all around.
Colossal cliffs surround the end of this trail on three sides in front of you creating a natural amphitheater.
Many majestic views of Zion Canyon can be seen from here to provide a very unique perspective.

SECRETS/TIPS

Go early in the morning during the summer or later in the day as the trail can get very busy.
Make sure to stop at the Middle Emerald Pools. If open!

CANYON OVERLOOK Trail is a Steep 1 MILE Hike

But so rewarding!!

HIGHLIGHTS

Steps leading up to a maintained, rocky and uneven dirt trail. We recommend hiking boots. 🥾 Shortest hike in the park to get you to a viewpoint above the canyon offering amazing views down into the Pine Creek slot canyon. We hiked this trail early in the morning with hopes of seeing mountain goats 🐐 but we had no luck. There was a cool shaded alcove with lush ferns growing out of the walls.
Other things to check out once you are at the viewpoint:
Route 9 switchbacks below, Bridge Mountain (the highest peak on the left side of the canyon), the East Temple (the impressive rock formation above the viewpoint to the right), the canyon wall to the left to spot “windows” of the tunnel, and the Pine Creek stream below

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Year round

SECRETS/TIPS

If parking is full, continue down the road and there are several other overflow parking lots or shoulders to park. We went early and had to park along the shoulder; however, we discovered numerous hiking trails which we explored prior to reaching the trailhead.
While driving up the mountain, stop 🛑 at the last bend of the switchbacks (3rd bend) to spot the Great Arch of Zion. Great place for a picture and if you look closely you can see people on top of it. This is where the Canyon Overlook Trail viewpoint can be seen.
A great night hike to see a wonderful display of stars or sunset (make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp).

Drone flying around Watchmans Campgrounds

ANGELS LANDING is 5 &1/2 MILES of Terror with a great view and a long fall to the bottom

HIGHLIGHTS

Partially Paved and this hike is NOT for the faint of heart ❤️. When we arrived this trail was closed due to Covid.
The hike begins with a set of 21 zig-zags known as Walters Wiggles before you reach Scout’s Lookout. Scout’s Lookout offers beautiful vistas from above the canyon. One could stop here if your fear of heights overwhelms you. (Don’t be a scared 😱 cat)
If you do decide to go all the way up Angel’s Landing, you will be rewarded with magnificent views in every direction you look. Plenty of chains, guard-rails, and carved steps are provided to help ease your mind of all the drop-offs on both sides of the canyon. Warning ⚠️ The last 0.7 miles of the trail is roughly only about 4 ½ to 5 feet wide and Acrophobia (fear of heights) can be challenging.

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Spring, Summer and Fall. Winter can get dangerous due to rain, snow and ice collecting on the trail. Portions can be closed in winter due to trail conditions.
Summer is very crowded

SECRETS/TIPS

Go Early! This is a very popular trail that can quickly become crowded.
On your way down hike some of the West Rim trail. The views from that trail are also very stunning and could be a great spot to take a picture of Angel’s Landing.
Bring lots of water and snacks. Most of the trail (especially the last part) can be very sun-exposed and hot.

The Narrows is the ultimate slot Canyon .5 to 16 miles

Highlights

For miles one can hike the North fork of the Virgin River with sheer rock walls on both sides. The trailhead begins at the end of the Riverwalk trail at Temple Sinawaua. The Riverwalk trail is about a mile of paved road. The simplest way to hike the Narrows is a boomerang 🪃 (out and back) hike until you run out of time or become tired, and turn around.

For the more adventurous, consider a top down overnight hike for 16 miles that begins on the private property Chamberlain ranch and ends at the Riverwalk. This hikes requires permits.

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Winter can get dangerous due to rain, snow and ice collecting on the trail and the water is cold 🥶. Portions can be closed in winter due to trail conditions and did I say the water is cold.
Summer is very crowded

SECRETS/TIPS

A walking stick or Trek poles and proper shoes will make a hike in the Narrows more enjoyable. We can not count how many people we passed alone the Narrows with bloody shins and knees because they slipped or tripped within the rapid rushing water.

Robin love 💕 to cook 👩‍🍳 and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious 😋 while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

Biking Zion

Cycling is a great way to see Zion National Park and is a popular alternative to shuttle buses for accessing the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Certain park operations, including the shuttle buses, have changed dramatically due to COVID-19. For more information, find out how COVID-19 will affect your visit.

General Regulations

• Bicycling is permitted on all park roadways and on the Pa’rus Trail. All other park trails, off-trail routes, and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel are closed to bikes.
• Bicycles must ride single file on the right side of park roads and the Parus Trail.
• Please wear your helmet!
• Cyclists are limited to groups of 6 bikes or less. Larger groups prevent vehicles from passing them in a safe manner on the narrow park roads. Groups of more than 6 bikes can split into smaller groups but must be separated by one quarter mile or more. 
• Bicycles are allowed on the park shuttle buses, though you will need to be able to lift the bikes on and off the front racks yourself.

Pa’rus Trail

• The Pa’rus Trail is a multi-use path with foot and bike traffic, so slow down and please be considerate of other visitors.
• Bicyclists must obey all traffic signs including stop signs. The side trail to the Human History Museum is not open to bicycles.
• There are lots of turns, bridges, blind corners, and wildlife along the trail. Cyclists must warn pedestrians before passing, either verbally or with a horn or bell. Pedestrians have the right of way. Bikes must stop if the path is not clear. 
• Be careful when passing wildlife and pets. The speed and sound of a bicycle can startle animals. 
• The Pa’rus Trail begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and can take you to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive without the need to ride on UT-9 (the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway).

The town of Springdale is just outside the gates of Zion along with Virgin and Hurricane, Utah.

Explore the awesome little town that hosts Zion National Park travelers. We drove through Springdale but due to Covid-19 we did not dine at any of the quaint establishments and there are a lot of quaint establishments!

Every big destination needs a host city – somewhere to get you fed, watered and rested before you set out on your adventure. Cuzco is basecamp for Machu Picchu, the Acropolis sits above Athens and Zion National Park has Springdale.

Springdale ~ sits on the southern border of Zion with a population of 529. It rests in the shadow of the towering red, white, and pink striped cliffs that define Southern Utah, essentially an incorporated annex of the park proper, giving you incredible views right from the main drag, aptly named Zion Park Blvd. It’s got plenty of entertainment for those of us not quite ready to renounce civilization altogether, and lots of outdoor retailers for those of us who are. These retailers will rent you water shoes for a hike in the Narrows.

Springdale’s the perfect getaway/gateway: Laid back, all the amenities and incredible access to unforgettable adventure.

We drove to the town of Virgin, UT and purchased cactus jelly at a road side vendor. (Delicious) 😋 There is no limit to the road side attractions offered around the towns surrounding Zion.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

Quick link to Zion National Park Website

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

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After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday 🍰 so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you 😍 Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Excellent detour off I-70

As we traveled the highways and byways of America, it was our amazement to drive through the Colorado National Monument. We were not expecting this detour to wow 🤩 us as we drove from Grand Junction to Fruita, CO. The high desert 🐪 was not an image conjured when ruminating about Colorado. You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself. – Glinda the Good Witch

The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive offers redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and glorious views along the way for motorists and bicyclists. The monument’s feature attraction is Monument Canyon, which runs the width of the park and includes rock formations such as Independence Monument, the Kissing Couple, and Coke Ovens.

Colorado National Monument’s Rim Rock Drive is one of the most spectacular drives in the United States. Redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and verdant green juniper splash fantastic views along the way for motorists and bicyclists. However, the road is challenging, narrow, and steep in some sections with sheer dropoffs. Special considerations must be made for road travel since motorists and bicyclists share the road. Use caution when on tight corners and hills. On the east side of the monument, motorists may encounter large trucks that use four miles of the monument’s roadway to access the community of Glade Park. Road work is an on-going process.

Reclusive canyon dweller John Otto mounted a one-man campaign to have his “backyard” declared a national park. That designation came in 1911, with Otto as its first superintendent. Otto famously wrote, “I came here last year and found these canyons, and they felt like the heart of the world to me. I’m going to stay and promote this place because it should be a national park.” Ultimately, Colorado National Monument was established on May 24, 1911, as a presidential proclamation by President Taft under the authority of the Antiquities Act.

The park became more well known in the 1980s partly due to its inclusion as a stage of the major international bicycle race, the Coors Classic. The race through the park became known as “The Tour of the Moon”, due to the spectacular landscapes the race passed through on Rim Rock Drive.

Rules to follow on the road within this monument:

Please Follow These Rules:

• Use your headlights in all tunnels and watch for bicyclists and other vehicles.
• Obey all traffic laws and speed limits. The maximum speed is 25 mph. 
• Do not attempt to proceed around bicyclists unless you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and a safe passing distance. Do not pass in the tunnels.
• When passing bicyclists, please allow at least three feet of clearance between your vehicle and the bicyclist.
• Check carefully for bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles before pulling out onto the road from pullouts.
• Allow other motorists and bicyclists to pass if you are obstructing traffic and there is a safe place to pull over.
• Remember that bicyclists have all the rights and responsibilities of any vehicle.

What to expect during your drive?
The monument boasts canyons as deep as 500 feet and rock monoliths as tall as 450 feet.  Of the three tunnels along the 23-mile-long Rim Rock Drive, the longest is 530 feet long. . Serpent’s Trail, the original dirt road into Colorado National Monument and now its most popular hiking trail make 54 switchbacks in just 2 1/2 miles. We did not allocate even time for hiking but would recommend. If seeking additional hiking trails the monument boast 47 more trails for all skill levels. Do not forget to bring extra water on these hikes as Colorado National Monument records an annual average of fewer than 12 inches of rain. It was hot hot 🥵 hot on our visit.

What kinds of wildlife can we expect to see in this desert region?
Visitors often see mule deer and may also spot coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, desert bighorns and much smaller mammals such as foxes, desert cottontails, squirrels, and other rodents. We had no luck witnessing the fauna as the desert heat kept most animals in the shade.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Camping options:

Unfortunately for us, we underestimated the beauty and solitude offered within the Colorado National Monument while making our plans. If we could have a do over then we would have considered sticking around for a few days. You have two choices for camping within the park.

Saddlehorn Campground: You’ll find this within proximity of the Visitor Center. It is the only established campground in the whole park, with individual and group campsites available. Tent camping and RV sites are available, each with a picnic table and grill. Restrooms are open in the summer only. Reservations are advisable (recreation.gov), and you can make them up to 6 months in advance.

Backcountry: You can get a free use permit to travel, hike and camp in the backcountry. Permits are good for 14 nights, although you can only stay 7 consecutive nights at one time. There are no services or water available in the backcountry, so you do have to pack a considerable amount in with you.

Pro-Tip One of the shortest trails, also popular, is Devil’s Kitchen. The trailhead is located near the eastern entrance of the park on Rim Rock Drive. This trail is about 1 mile long, and ends in a sandstone grotto. Devil’s Kitchen trail is well suited for families with smaller children, as the hike is short and the “kitchen” itself provides plenty of opportunity for child-sized exploration.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees.”We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”—Native American proverb

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts 💭 about the Colorado National Monument

As one traverses the country, the demand for a detour can not be summarized in rest areas. We believe old and young will find some activity to be entertained within this national monument. This departure from the interstate is guarantied to recharge your soul. I promise you will not be disappointed. ~One touch of nature makes the whole world kin. —William Shakespeare

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

The most original ghost 👻 town in Colorado

Saint Elmo is one of the most accessible and best preserved ghost towns in the West. It’s located just southwest of Buena Vista, CO. in Chalk Creek Canyon. We would recommend a stop to explore this historical ghost town. And maybe 🤔 witness a Casper the friendly ghost along the way! PS the town is more historical than haunted 😂

The drive up to the ghost town begins near the Mt Princeton Hot Springs Resort and the road ascends over 10,000 feet 🦶elevation along the Chalk Creek. We stopped ✋ on the way back and had a picnic 🧺 lunch along the river banks to listen to the rush of a Colorado creek. *You will always find an answer in the sound of water 💧*

Word of Warning ⚠️ ~ The road becomes a dirt road about half the way up the mountain. We had no issue pulling our teardrop, GG; however, if lots of rain occurs during or just prior this road could be an issue. Check conditions if in a big rig.

The town has over 43 buildings remain scattered around: a saloon, courthouse/jail, mercantile, church, and private homes. The Chalk Creek winds through the town which has a current residence of 3 and 💯 of chipmunks.

History of St Elmo– Originally called Forrest City in 1880, Saint Elmo was renamed and incorporated shortly after. Gold and silver was what the miners were searching. Hard work and hard play was the life of these settlers. In its heyday of around 2,000 residents in 1881, the town was full of saloons, dance halls and other staples of a mostly male population. Females were very popular & would often have multiple marriage proposes to choose between.

St. Elmo General Store – Open May to Sept was a fun 🤩 stop for ice cream, souvenirs, antiques, cabin rental. Outside the doors 🚪 of the General Store is home to hundreds of hummingbirds who call St Elmo home from the spring to summer. We watched the hummingbirds for over an hour with an ice cream 🍦 in hand from the General Store.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Ghost Town Guest House – Year round, supper, bed and breakfast located in town. The guest House appeared to be very quaint and maybe when back in this area we will consider a stay.

Pro-Tip: Our plan was to stop by St Elmo and spend an hour; albeit, if we had a do over our suggestion would be to plan atleast three days or more in this area. I was not aware of all the 4-wheel adventures that are available nearby. There are a few ruins around St Elmo you could explore with extra time, including Hancock and Mary Murphey Mine. It’s best to have a 4×4 or rent a Jeep, then you can go over Tincup Pass and explore Pitkin, Tincup and Ohio City. All easily done in a day. There is no camping on Co Rd 162.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees.”The fire is the main comfort of camp, whether in summer or winter.” Thoreau

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts 💭 about St Elmo Ghost Town

It’s free. The drive towards the town will amaze and relax. The town is a portal to the past lives of the early settlers. I promise you will be not be disappointed. I wish we had rented a keep and gone over Tincup Pass. ~Life is better by the camp fire~

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Hummingbirds of St Elmo

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Traveling through Colorado Springs is not complete without a stop 🛑 at the Garden of the Gods which is said, “the most striking contrast between the plains and mountains in North America” with respect to biology, geology, climate, and scenery.” We were impressed and we know you will be also.

The cost is FREE and driving through the park will allow nice views; however, we highly recommend parking at the Visitor Center and picking up 🔝 a free map then walking into the park. With over 15 miles of hiking 🥾 trails of which we completed the Perkins Central Garden Trail that is a 1.5 mile paved trail that is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Helen Hunt Jackson wrote of the Garden of the Gods, “You wind among rocks of every conceivable and inconceivable shape and size… all bright red, all motionless and silent, with a strange look of having been just stopped and held back in the very climax of some supernatural catastrophe.” ~The Ute Indians believed the Garden of the Gods was the birthplace of their people. Dinosaur 🦖 bones and petroglyphs dating back to 1330 BC can be found within the park highlighting the sacred surrounding beneath the 14,000 Pikes Peak ⛰ looming in the distance.

PARK HOURS

• May 1 – October 31: 5AM – 11PM
• November 1 – April 30: 5AM – 9PM
• Both the park and Visitor & Nature Center are free and open to the public. 
• Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s Day.

How was Garden of the Gods named?
The first European explorers referred to this site as Red Rock Corral. Then, in 1859 a new group of surveyors explored the site and one gentleman remarked that the area would be a great location for a beer garden. His companion retorted that this place of incredible beauty was suited for more than just a beer garden, that it was a place fit for gods to assemble. And that’s how “Garden of the Gods” got its name! 

One activity very popular within the park is Rock Climbing. 🧗‍♂️ You must fill out the free registration form and abide by all rules. We were not brave enough to try this activity but we had fun resting and watching the brave at heart venture up these steep walls. Want to learn how to rock climb? Check out these outfitters and they will teach you in Garden of the Gods Park.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Other PARK ACTIVITIES 

• Biking – Guided electric bike tours provided by Amp’d Adventures, who also rent e-Bikes and standard mountain bikes. Mountain biking is permitted on select trails in the park, and all one-way roads have paved bike lanes. View a Bike Trail Map for more details.
• Horseback Riding – Guided horseback riding is provided by Academy Riding Stables. They offer 1 & 2-hour rides fitted for beginners and experts.
• Other Ways to See the Park – Explore Garden of the Gods on a Segway or on a Jeep tour! Short and long tours are provided by Adventures Out West.
• Birding – A variety of birds can be seen in Garden of the Gods Park.

Pro-Tip After spending a day in the Garden of Gods, we highly recommend a journey into Manitou Springs for the best hamburger 🍔 we have ever had at the Keg Lounge. We have traveled across America and have never tasted such a good 😌 burger except for Robins homemade jalapeño burger. 😋

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees.”The fire is the main comfort of camp, whether in summer or winter.” Thoreau

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts 💭 about the Garden 🪴 of the Gods

We believe old and young will find some activity to be entertained within this park. It’s free. How can one complain about spending a day walking among these sentinel spires, hogbacks, and unusually formations that were created millions of years ago. I promise you will be not be disappointed. ~Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads. —Henry David Thoreau

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

We needed a one night stop 🛑 and were traveling 🧳 on I-40 outside of Oklahoma City. As luck would have it, Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park was a short drive off the interstate 🛣.

After hours of driving through a flat Oklahoma, it was a pleasant surprise to descend into the Red Canyon. The drive into the canyon was surreal and unexpected. In addition to RV and tent camping, the park offers picnic areas, nature trails, a small fishing pond, and playground equipment. The canyon walls are a favorite for rappelling and open exploration. In season, the park operates a swimming pool with bathhouse (and adjacent food concession) and the group camp, which offers overnight sleeping in bunkhouses, and a kitchen/dining hall for meals or meetings. Group picnic shelters are also available. The park and surrounding area has good opportunities for fall foliage viewing.

Red Rock 🪨 Canyon Adventure Park at a glance

Our thoughts 💭 about the campground

The Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park was a state park but has changed into private hands around 2018. We found RRCP an oasis in a desert 🌵 that begins with a descent into a red canyon that is verdant with trees 🌲 and rough horsetails. We highly recommend exploring the trails within the canyon. The campsites were relatively large allowing space between sites. The camp host was very friendly and the campgrounds are well maintained; albeit, a little outdated. We did not have a cell phone signal while at this campground except in occasional locations. We felt the cost was a little expensive; however, there are a lot of amenities within the park.

Other area attractions:

• 👍👍Hike the Rough Horsetail Nature trail or one of the many trails 👍👍
• Hinton Historical Musuem
• Gamble at the local casino
• Rock climb or rappel within the canyon
• Enjoy the swimming 🏊🏼‍♂️ pool during season
• Relax

Quick Link to the Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park Website

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Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

We love ❤️ to camp in the National Forest and the National Parks. We needed a one night stop 🛑 and we were traveling 🧳 on Independence Pass (road between Aspen and Twin Lakes) and Twin Peaks campground was a perfect 👌 lay over.

Twin Peaks is a first-come, first-served campground located west of Twin Lakes Reservoir in a shaded aspen and lodgepole pine forest. It is located above the whitewater of Lake Creek at 9,600 feet with spectacular views of the Sawatch Range. The Continental Divide and Mount Elbert trails are in the nearby area. Firewood is available for sale at the host site.

Twin Peaks at a glance

Our thoughts 💭 about the campground

We did have some noise from the road but at night this was not an issue. A stream goes past the edge of the campground making sites 6, 16, 18 on the stream and our recommendation. The camp host was very friendly and the campgrounds are well maintained. We did not have a cell phone signal while at this campground.

Other area attractions:

• Drive Independence Pass-One of the state’s highest paved passes. It runs from Twin Lakes to Aspen (NO vehicles larger than 32 feet 🦶 allowed
• Twin Lakes
• Hike the Big Willis Gulch Trail
• Visit the town of Leadville, CO
• Plan a trip to Marroon Bells and our review will help
• Explore Aspen

Quick Link to the Twin Peaks Campground Website

---

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Bryce Canyon boast the largest collection of hoodoos in the world 🌎. This is an amazing place. When asked about Bryce Canyon the previous owner was heard saying, “Its, a helluva place to lose, a cow.” Although, it is a great place to explore, hike, and roan among the these strange geological spires.

“The beauty and charm of the wilderness are his for the asking, for the edges of the wilderness lie close beside the beaten roads of the present travel.”
— President Theodore Roosevelt

I remember as a little boy making sand castles 🏰 at the beach. Not with a bucket, but letting the sand ooze between ones fingers so as to let the turrets all look long and pointed. Image now being reduced in size to about an inch and walking around and into your castle. This is the adventure that awaits you at Bryce Canyon.

Bryce Canyon is home to a horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, scenic vistas, and the dark night sky. *Pondering: a treehouse is an insult to a tree – “Hey, I killed your friend, now hold him.”

Navajo Loop is the most popular trail which takes visitors down the rim from Sunset Point through the narrow corridors of Wall Street and then intersects with Queens Garden Loop Trail. We departed the Navajo trail and continued on the Queens 👸 Garden trail. It added an extra couple of miles but the scenery was breathtaking. We also recommend starting at sunset 🌅 point and then hike up sunrise point. The ascent seemed to be a more gradual climb up and not as steep.

Hiking into Bryce Canyon is considered a moderate hike with almost 1,000 foot descent and a 1,000 ascent to complete the hike. In the summer the temps can reach 💯 so bring lots of water, hiking shoes, trek poles and etc. Do not fear if a hike into the canyon is not your thing atleast walk the Rim Trail from Sunrise PT to Sunrise PT. And Don’t miss Inspiration Point.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

We highly recommend the Mossy Cave Trail(Off scenic HWY 12)in the northern end of Bryce Canyon National Park offers hikers the chance to experience up close the hoodoos and spires of the park without having to descend 1,000 feet to the bottom of the amphitheatres. This trail follows a stream that leads to a natural grotto, a shelter cave that looms protectively over the trail, bearing ice sickles in the winter and lichen and moss in the warmer seasons. Read a more detail of this hike in our other blog: Kodachrome

Some of the majestic scenery in Bryce Canyon National Park can be seen by auto touring, no hiking needed. You can enjoy all of the park’s major overlooks if you get out of your car and take leisurely strolls out to the edge of the pavement. A bad day camping is still better than a good day at work.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees.”The fire is the main comfort of camp, whether in summer or winter.” Thoreau

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Some of the the pullouts one can expect on the scenic drive through Bryce Canyon.
“There’s no wi-fi in the mountains, but you’ll find no better connection.”

Fairview Point:

From this vista you can look out over parts of Bryce Canyon, and also famous features in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. From north to south you can see the Aquarius Plateau (Pink Cliffs), the Kaiparowits Plateau (Grey Cliffs), Molly’s Nipple (White Cliffs), and parts of the Kaibab Plateau. On most days you can easily see Navajo Mountain. 

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Rookie Mistake: We made the assumption that we could explore, hike, and drive this area in 1 day. If I had a do-over, I would plan on spending atleast 3 full days to a whole week. You will not be sorry 😐.

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Willis Creek slot canyon is located outside the gates of Kodachrome Basin State Park. Unlike some other canyons in this area, Willis Creek is very easy to explore, with no obstacles of any kind, just a flat, stony streambed enclosed by shapely, delicately colored walls of Navajo sandstone.

Our toughest challenge was getting to the trail head. Skutumpah Road – the unpaved route between Johnson Canyon and Cannonville, was recommended to use a 4wd.

We drove our Nissan; albeit, several sharp turns had the car fishtailing near steep cliffs. My adrenaline was pumping by the time I pulled into the trail head.

Willis Creek flows a long way, from the base of the Pink Cliffs in Bryce Canyon National Park through high country at the edge of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Hikers will have to cross this stream numerous times; however, the creek is only several inches deep so walking 🚶‍♀️through the stream is cause us no issues and was fun. All ages will enjoy this hike. Alway check conditions before going into a slot canyon-flash floods can happen anytime.

The trail is an out and back. We walked to the balanced rock in the middle of the slot canyon and then returned. I estimate we did about 4 miles round trip. If you become tired 😓 just turn around. Bring water because summer heat can be hot 🥵 but there is a nice break from the heat inside the slot canyon.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Several springs ensure its waters flow year round, and just after the crossing of the Skutumpah Road – the unpaved route between Johnson Canyon and Cannonville, the creek enters a moderately deep gorge and passes through several short but very beautiful sections of narrows.

Occasional small waterfalls form where the floor drops over small chokestones, and the canyon has several quite lengthy curving, narrow passageways, nicely illuminated when the sun shines, and always very photogenic. We came across a young lady taking nudes in one of these waterfalls. She covered up and we continued hiking 🥾 but this hike is secluded and not as popular as Zion so no fear of large crowds.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. It may not save one money on this hike but a trip to Bryce Canyon or Capital Reef should not be missed when in this area.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

I did not write this – but WOW does it speak to my heart!!!  Worth the read.

Barely the day started and… it’s already six in the evening.
Barely arrived on Monday and it’s already Friday….

and the month is already over….

and the year is almost over….

and already 40, 50 or 60 years of our lives have passed….

and we realize that we lost our parents, friends.
and we realize it’s too late to go back…

So… Let’s try, despite everything, to enjoy the remaining time…

Let’s keep looking for activities that we like…

Let’s put some color in our grey…

Let’s smile at the little things in life that put balm in our hearts.

And despite everything, we must continue to enjoy with serenity this time we have left.

Let’s try to eliminate the afters…

I’m doing it after…

I’ll say after…
I’ll think about it after…

We leave everything for later like ′′ after ′′ is ours.
Because what we don’t understand is that:

Afterwards, the coffee gets cold…

afterwards, priorities change…

Afterwards, the charm is broken…

afterwards, health passes…

Afterwards, the kids grow up…

Afterwards parents get old…

Afterwards, promises are forgotten…

afterwards, the day becomes the night…

afterwards life ends…

And then it’s often too late….

So… Let’s leave nothing for later…

Because still waiting see you later, we can lose the best moments,the best experiences,best friends,the best family…

The day is today…

The moment is now…
We are no longer at the age where we can afford to postpone what needs to be done right away.

Now go wonder, or is there an “after” in the way?

The drive to find Willis Creek trailhead is worth the drive. The hike is easy and worth the effort. Now go wonder.

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

America the beautiful. It’s time to go wondering. As soon as you see it, you will know that the name fits perfectly. Kodachrome Basin State Park, with its red tinged rock formations and incredible blue skies, just begs to be photographed. The National Geographic Society came up with the name, and everyone agreed with it.

We originally chose this location as a home 🏠 base to hike and visit Bryce Canyon and the Grand Staircase National Park ;however, we underestimated this state park as it should have been a destination to explore more than a sleep 💤 over.

There are over 67 monolithic stone spires, called sedimentary pipes, accentuate multihued sandstone layers that reveal 180 million years of geologic time. Walking among the spires resonates the power and beauty of nature. The race is long and in the end it is only against yourself. 😇

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Alert:  Shakespeare Arch collapsed in April of last year.  The trail is still open but there is now just a pile of rubble where the arch used to be. Our country is so beautiful 😍 make more time for yourself and see these natural wonders. No one ever said on their death 💀 bed, “I wish I had worked harder.”

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Kodachrome Basin State Park offers 54 options for camping: ⛺️ 30 standard sites, 15 Full hook ups, 6 standard-partial hookup, 2 bunkhouses, 1 group site. We have camped across the USA and the bathrooms 🚽 within Kodachrome State Park are some of the best we have witnessed. The showers remind us of a day in the spa 🧖‍♂️ within the Ritz. Laundry 🧺 facilities are top notch.

Camping Fees:

Basin Campground standard Site (no hook-ups): $25.00/ night (max. 8 people, 1 vehicle)

Basin Campground Full Hook-Up Site (13 sites available): $35.00/night (max. 8 people, 1 vehicle)

Bryce View Campground: $25.00/night (Vault toilet, no hookups, max 4 people, 1 vehicle)

Arch Campground: $35.00/night (max 8 people, 1 vehicle, power and water hookups)

Bunkhouses: $85.00/night (No running water in bunkhouse, bring your own bedding, max 6 people, 1 vehicle)

Additional vehicles will be charged an additional vehicle fee per night:(Limit of one additional vehicle per site)

Additional Vehicle Fee:

$16.00 Per night (There is a maximum of one extra vehicle allowed on each site.)

Geology

The geologic interest of the park are sandstone spires and columns called sand pipes, believed to be found nowhere else on earth. It is believed that the area was once similar to Yellowstone National Park with hot springs and geysers, which eventually filled up with sediment and solidified. Through time, the Entrada sandstone surrounding the solidified geysers eroded, leaving large sand pipes. Now stop 🛑 waiting and plan your adventure today. Tomorrow may never arrive.

Rookie Mistake: We made the assumption that we could explore, hike, and drive this area in 3 days. We did not put a dent in the many todo adventures along this stretch of road and the afternoon heat limited adventures in the later day. Temperatures near 💯 in early August when we visited made hiking tough except in the morning.

Kodachrome Basin State Park is located near Cannonville on Scenic Byway 12. This is one pretty epic road. Read our review of Scenic Byway 12. Consider exploring this stretch of roads and the multiple state parks (Kodachrome Basin, Escalante Petrified Forest, Anasazi State Park Museum), national parks (Bryce Canyon (which is 20 miles away) and Capitol Reef), scenic backways for travelers with 4 wheel drive(Cottonwood Canyon, Hole-in-the-Rock, Burr Trail, Hell’s Backbone) and virtually endless outdoor recreation options on the expansive Dixie National Forest.

Drone flying around Kodachrome State Park Campgrounds

Things to do within the park

Chimney Rock is the main attraction at Kodachrome Basin State Park, with the largest spire towering at 170 feet tall. Several hiking, biking, and equestrian trails run throughout the park. We would recommend spending atleast a full day exploring Kodachrome Basin State Park.

The Grand Parade Trail is an easy, 1-mile scenic trail that follows along the park road.

Angels Palace is another easy 1/2-mile trail

Eagle’s View Overlook is a little more challenging 3/4 mile trail

Panorama Trail is a 3 mile roundtrip That leads to the renowned Ballerina Slipper formation, with the option to continue for another two miles on the Big Bear Geyser/Cool Cave Trail. We did not have time to do Cool Cave trail but was told it is a must do. Next time. 😔

You are next to the Grand Staircase so plan to also explore this area 🥾 🚵‍♀️ 🏍 – We recommend hiking Willis Creek Trail as we did a full day hike & was very happy with this hike.

Robin love 💕 to cook 👩‍🍳 and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious 😋 while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

Hiking Near Kodachrome

Willis Creek Slot Canyon –

Willis Creek Narrows is a mellow and accessible hike. Here, you’ll find great visual rewards with minimal effort. Skutumpah Rd is recommended to use 4wd; but, our Nissan made the journey with a couple scary hair pin turns. Check road conditions and weather before making this trip.

Willis Creek Slot Canyon is located off Skutumpah Road in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The hike is a 4.8-mile round trip, but you can turn around after you finish the narrows section, making it a 2.6-mile round trip. The  trail gains a scant 300 feet as it follows the perennial Willis Creek. Much of the hike involves uncountable creek crossings or hiking directly in the creek, but the creek is generally only an inch or two deep. We enjoyed the feeling remoteness and seclution-you will likely only see a dozen or so other friendly hikers along the way.

Must do hike along the scenic byway drive just outside the gates Bryce Canyon

The Mossy Cave Trail is an easy (.4 mile) route that begins beside UT 12 between Tropic and the Bryce Canyon turn-off at Ruby’s Inn.🏨 The trail is mostly a level trail, following beside the fast-flowing stream and across two footbridges to a junction. We took some time to take off our shoes 👟 and let the cool water run over our feet 🦶.

The trail comes to a Robert Foster “fork in the road.” The left fork has a short but steep climb through a patch of pine woodland to the cave, actually just a wide, mossy overhang in the Claron limestone, kept moist by water dripping from the ceiling. This freezes in winter, and the large ice pillars beneath do not fully melt until midsummer, partly as the cave faces northeast and hence receives no direct sunlight.

The Waterfall

The right branch of the trail leads a little further upstream to the waterfall, where the stream tumbles 15 feet over a ledge into a circular pool; above is a swirling channel and several quite deep potholes. We hiked up using the trails and then down walking, along and in, the stream.

Further erosion is slowed by an underlying layer of much harder dolomite. Apart from small hoodoos and other minor formations lining the cliffs above the stream, the surroundings are wooded and gently undulating – not as scenic as the more famous section of Bryce National Park to the south. Don’t be afraid to take the roads less traveled. 🧳

Bryce Canyon is only 20 miles away from Kodachrome Basin State Park

Off Road Trail near Kodachrome

Cottonwood Canyon Road, also known as Road 400, is a 46 mile dirt road that connects U.S. Highway 89 with Utah SR 12 at Cannonville and traverses portions of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offering a unique view into its heart. As high clearance vehicles are recommended, it’s ideal for four-wheeling, and drivers will be rewarded with an up close look at some stunning natural features, including colorful rock formations. If you want to get out on your feet, there are a number of outstanding hiking trails that can be accessed along the route too, like the Cottonwood Narrows, Hackberry Canyon and Round Valley Draw.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

Quick link to Kodachrome Basin State Park Website

Drone flight around Kodachrome Basin State Park

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

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After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday 🍰 so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you 😍 Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses 🕶. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

As a kid who does not remember playing in a sand box. Well welcome to an epic dune field encompasses 30 square miles and the tallest dune towers 750 feet which is the largest in North America. The kid in every visitor loves to sled down the sand year-round and plunge into the soft-sand tracks. I was ready to go sledding but the fear of a busted knee had me just watching the kids and adults 🧑 having the time of a life.

What formed the Great Sand Dunes? Geologists believe sediments from the surrounding mountains filled the valley over geologic time periods. After lakes within the valley receded, exposed sand was blown by the predominant southwest winds toward the Sangre de Cristos, eventually forming the dunefield over an estimated tens of thousands of years. The wind patterns are constantly moving the sand and if you can wake up early enough yours could be the first steps 🦶 of the day.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest 🌳. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

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Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Hiking and exploring Great Sand Dunes

Hikers and visitors can explore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.

High Dune at First Ridge: There are five dunes over 700 feet tall. The high dune on the first ridge is neither the highest in elevation nor the tallest in the park, but it looks that way from the main parking lot. This is the most common destination in the dunefield, providing a great view of the entire dunefield. It is about 699 feet (198 m) from base to top. Cross a half-mile (1km) of the Medano Creek bed, then zigzag up along ridgelines to reach it. Robin and I began this hike and a bad thunderstorm ⛈ approached us that was extremely menacing and we turned back.

Average round trip hiking time for High Dune is 2 hours and 2.5 miles. There is no formal trail and popular hiking applications do not show changes to the dune and are often inaccurate. Plan to take as much as 4 hours to hike roundtrip if not acclimated to the high altitude and lower oxygen level.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books 📚

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Star ⭐️ Dune: The tallest dune in North America stands at 750 feet (229m) from base to summit. While it can be hiked from the summit of the High Dune on the first ridge, it’s more direct, and less up and down, to access it via its base along the Medano Creek bed. From the Dunes Parking Lot, hike about 2 miles (3.2 km) south down the Medano Creek bed until the massive pyramid-shaped Star Dune comes into view. Follow a ridge to its summit.

Average round trip hiking time for High Dune is 6 hours and 8 miles. Plan to take as much as 9 hours to hike roundtrip. It is a strenuous hike so be prepared

Rookie Mistake: Not allowing enough time to hike more of the sand dunes, explore the Forest 🌳 trails, splashing in 💦 Medina Creek, sand boarding, 4wd the Medina Pass Rd, star gazing, exploring Zapata Falls, Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway, Fat biking 🚴‍♀️ Medina trail and San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area are just a few of the many things to do. If we could have a do over, it would be to spend atleast 3 full days in this enchanted region. Do NOT rush through the Great Sand Dunes. We will be back soon and will definitely stay longer. Go wonder!

Forested Trails-This diverse area offers a little of everything

Montville Nature Trail

In summer, keep this hike as an option for afternoon as an escape from the heat of the dunes. Walk along a shady forested trail named for a late 1800s settlement, comprising 20 houses in its heydey. Rest near the trail’s highpoint, where you’ll find outstanding views of Mt. Herard, the dunes and the valley.

(Please be aware that hunting is permitted during legal seasons in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve, the higher mountainous areas above the dunes. Primary rifle seasons are in fall months. Check with a park ranger for details.)

Mosca Pass Trail

This trail follows a small creek to the summit of a low pass in the Sangre de Cristo mountains, winding through aspen and evergreen forests. Allow 2-3 hours to reach the pass; the trail is 3 1/2 miles (5.7 km) one way. American Indians and early settlers used this route for travel into the valley.

Sand Ramp Trail

This 11 mile trail is most commonly used as an access to various backpacking sites along the foothills, rather than as a destination trail for scenery, since it stays at the same elevation along the base of the mountains. Begin hiking the Sand Ramp Trail in Loop 2 of the campground or at Point of No Return Parking area. After the first two miles, much of this trail is sandy soil or pure sand, up and down along the foothills, so this hike can be grueling. Allow for more time than the mileage indicates.

Nearby Attractions:

Zapata Falls

This popular short hike is located on BLM (US Bureau of Land Management) land south of the national park, off of Highway 150. It is a good option for summer afternoons when sand surface temperatures are high. Simply driving to the trailhead provides an excellent view of the entire dunefield and San Luis Valley. However, the hike to the falls requires wading over slippery rocks into a rock crevasse.

From the Visitor Center, drive south 8 miles, then turn left (east) onto a dirt road marked by a large sign. Drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead. We attempted to drive this road but it was very rough and our fear was GG would take a pounding and not recover. To view the falls, hike 1/2 mile, and wade into a crevasse where the 30 ft. high falls cascade onto a ledge.

Caution: Rocks are slippery. Water may be deep and swift in early summer during snowmelt, or during heavy thunderstorms. Rarely, rocks may fall from above into the crevasse. In winter, the falls freeze, creating an icy sculpture. Ice and snow may make the hike very slippery. Falling ice may be a hazard in spring.

Near the trailhead is Zapata Falls Campground, a primitive campground open year-round. 

San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area

San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area protects a wetland complex adjacent to Great Sand Dunes National Park. Birdwatching and photography are primary activities here, although hunting is permitted in season. As with most protected wetlands, this wildlife area is closed to the public for shore bird nesting from February 15 – July 15 each year. We planned to camp at Zapata Fall campground but the road was in such bad shape for the 3 mile step incline we chose to camp in this wildlife area And we were impressed.

Camping within San Louis requires a valid Colorado hunting or fishing license. We did not have one and the cost was expensive since we were not planning on fishing or hunting. The camp host allowed us to stay one night for free. It was a gift 🎁 from heaven since all the first come first serve sites with the Great Sand Dunes were taken. Each site has electricity and pit toilets.

CAMPING IN GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK- this was our second choice but no vacancies

The Piñon Flats Campgroundis run by the National Park Service, with 44 sites that are first-come, first-served and 44 that visitors can reserve in advance. We recommend a reservation. When we return this would be our first choice. Walking the sand dunes at night would be on our new bucket list.

For those traveling in 4WD vehicles, there are 21 campsites along Medano Pass Road within the park that are free and available on a first-come, first-served basic.

For those willing to haul their gear and everything else needed in backpacks, free backcountry permits (required) are available at the park’s visitor center. You can pitch your tent anywhere in the 30-square-foot dunefield that lies outside the day-use area. You’ll have a minimum hike of 1.5 miles over the dunes, but will experience a unique overnight setting.

Backpacking (with a permit) is also available amid the foothills and mountains along the Sand Ramp Trail within the park, where the dunes give way to the mountains.

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Star ⭐️ Gazing & More

Daytime activities can be exhausting but one must save some energy for adventures at night! Night at Great Sand Dunes can include dunes exploration under a bright full moon, viewing thousands of stars on a clear moonless night, listening for owls along the foothills, or observing migrating amphibians on a wet night. 

With a combination of dry air, little light pollution, and high elevation, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an excellent and easily accessible dark sky viewing location! In 2019, Great Sand Dunes was certified as an International Dark sky zone.

We were luck enough to view the Neowise Comet while at the San Luis Wildlife Refuges. The picture above is NOT ours because our camera 📸 did not have proper aptitude for night viewing but this is what we saw. Go roam and don’t forget the journey does not end when the sun goes down.

Planning to Experience the Night

• To see the most stars, plan your visit for moonless nights, or nights with a late moonrise. View a moon calendar for the month you plan to visit.
• Plan your visit on the full moon for a surreal walk on the dunes with no need for a flashlight.
• The Milky Way is highest and clearest in the evening sky during late summer and fall.
• Watch the weather forecast to time your visit for nights with little chance of rain. If it is rainy, watch for frogs, toads and salamanders along Medano Creek or in the dunes! Rainy weather is safe for exploration unless it is accompanied by lightning.
• When exploring the dunes on dark nights, make sure to plan in advance how you will find your vehicle after you return, because the parking lot/trail access is not obvious in the dark. When hiking back toward the Dunes Parking Lot, aim toward the left end of the long line of trees along Medano Creek. The parking area is located about 100 yards (100 meters) to the right of the end of the trees.
• Minimize your use of lights. Shining a bright flashlight will diminish your night vision for up to 30 minutes, limiting your view of the night sky and wildlife, and harming other visitors’ experience. Use only a red light if needed.
• Keep an eye out for the night-life of the dunes, including camel crickets, kangaroo rats, toads, salamanders, coyotes, bobcats, and owls. Never touch wildlife, and remember that their nocturnal eyes are highly sensitive to light. Use only a red light if needed.
• Don’t just depend on your eyes to experience the night. Feel the soft night breezes. Listen for the call of owls, the howling of distant coyotes, the calls of frogs and toads, the rustle of creatures in the forest, and the drum of kangaroo rats thumping warnings to each other. And smell the fresh scents of piñon pine, juniper, and seasonal flowers. You may notice that your senses grow sharper as you spend more time in dark and quiet locations.

Quick link to Great Sand Dunes Website

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Drone flying around San Luis Lake Wildlife Campground

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking 🥾 throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery 🔋 pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy 😬 so this easy locking 🔒 system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.