Park #3 of 9! The swing of weather on this trip was crazier than expected. This park is back up at a higher elevation and thus it was cold! The first night I was there is was an ice/rain mix overnight. I was smarter though and bought an extra blanket at a store and it made a huge difference! It was raining during the afternoon when I got there but I still did some exploring.
So I couldn’t resist adding this picture too! I saw these guys on the drive there and had to add them in. So adorable!
So after a night of rain and ice the morning turned out to be stunning! I naturally woke up early and headed over to sunrise point. I joined a large group of people with their cameras ready to capture the first moments when the sun would hit the canyon walls.
After about 5 minutes of waiting – I decided it would be cool to start hiking down into the canyon! I got some cool shots, and also because of the early hour was the only one in the canyon for almost an hour! I didn’t see anyone else until I began my ascent out the other end of the hike. I did Queen’s Garden and Navajo trail.
Once on the canyon floor I loved looking up at the voodoos. You definitely cannot grasp the size of these things unless you go down!
The hike back up was a bit brutal. As I was climbing the switchbacks I turned back and recognized a very common picture! 
The trees help to give perspective! It was a short steep climb and I was very out of breath. And of course since I was one of the first people in, the other people just starting down the climb looked at me like I was being dramatic! Just wait until you climb back out! 
I really enjoyed this park! The rock formations were stunning and the weather held out just long enough for me to climb back out of the canyon. I drove back out the end of the park too since it hadn’t quite started raining again. I took a picture of this plaque because I think its a good slogan for my trip.
Once I was sufficiently hiked out for the day I climbed back in my car and headed out of the park. Off to Capitol Reef (with an O….)!
I am not sure if I would spend more time in this park – I was pretty happy with the full day of hiking, and didn’t feel like there was anything major I missed. But if anyone disagrees let me know! Would be happy to return 🙂
Kelsey's Climb to 59 (+4) 