All of our previous trips out west were two week road trips. I like road trips but how many times do you want to drive though Iowa, sorry Hawkeye fans. Leann was reluctant to fly with the kids but decided to give it a shot. Leave Ohio in the morning and hike in Zion later the same day, she was hooked.
Only two problems: landing in Vegas and taking off from Vegas.
1) Landing in Vegas. We got off the plane in Vegas to the chaos of slot machines and a massive cloud of cigarette smoke. Julie was freaking out about the smoke and tried to walk through the airport without breathing
2) Taking off from Vegas. The plane had to take off fuel to reduce weight since the extreme heat reduced lift. It was a nasty take off and we had to stop and refuel on the way home. We obviously made it and visited 3 more National Parks.
OUR 21st NATIONAL PARK
ESTABLISHED: NOVEMBER 19, 1919
ACRES: 148,732
HIKING TRAILS: 116
Jamie at the temple
OUR 22nd NATIONAL PARK
ESTABLISHED: FEBRUARY 25, 1928
ACRES: 35,835
HIKING TRAILS: 42
Hike into Bryce Canyon
The girls all got tired so we took turns carrying them out of the canyon. Only problem, they had us out numbered so I carried 2.
OUR 23rd NATIONAL PARK
ESTABLISHED: OCTOBER 27, 1986
ACRES: 77,810
HIKING TRAILS: 12
Great Basin NP, we loved this park and plan to go back. We have not made it yet, maybe when Steve’s Folly is ready for the road.
Rocks and water, what are we going to do?
Red Rock Canyon outside of Las Vegas. I like this picture of the girls, they are all grown but still have an amazing relationship. They now do a sisters trip and rent a cabin for the weekend. I keep trying to get invited and they say no.
HAPPY TRAILS, STEVE