On the road again

I returned to San Diego from my travels in South America with a strong feeling of unrest. I decided to discontinue my employment at Digital Orchid, but did not have a definitive plan for myself, only knowing that I was not ready to hang up my traveling shoes. After a little deliberation I decided to pack up and head out on a little road trip across parts of the US that I have not seen or spent much time at. And, it works out fairly well as I have a family reunion in Missouri (July 10-13) and my little brother's wedding outside Seattle (August 9).

I left July 5th for Los Angeles. I spent one night there before jumping in my car and making my way to the south west corner of Utah and Zion National Park. Zion was incredible. It reminded me of the quebrada near Salta, Argentina. Zion is filled with towering sandstone cliffs that rise up to over 10,000 feet above sea level. I spent my time in Zion doing several hikes throughout the park, visiting Angels Landing, the Emerald Pools, Riverside Walk, and the Canyon Overlook. I only spent one night in Zion as I was a bit pressed to make it to Missouri in time for a family reunion.

I left Zion mid-morning on July 7th and started heading east towards Arches National Park on the other side of Utah. I made a slow drive of it, passing through several national parks along the way to take pictures and enjoy the unimaginable beauty that this amazing planet has supplied. I drove through Bryce Canyon and Capital Reef National Parks before arriving in Moab, Utah. My late start and constant stops along the way prevented me from arriving at Arches in time to get a camping spot, so I stayed the night in a tiny motel in Moab. I woke early on July 8th and was able to secure camp site #6 inside Arches. After setting up my tent, I headed out to explore the park and the natural wonders that gave this place its name. I spent the majority of the day visiting the natural landmarks of Broken Arch, Fiery Furnace, Sand Dune Arch, and the area known as The Windows. In the afternoon I decided to hike to Delicate Arch to watch the sunset. I, along with about 50 other adventurers, were treated to a remarkable sunset over the red sandstone rocks and expansive valleys surrounding the area.

I woke early on July 9th to hike through Devil's Garden and watch the sun rise over two incredible natural arches: Landscape and Double-O. It was an incredible experience watching the world wake up like this, with the sun throwing its rays across the sky to light up these natural bridges. I spent several hours in this area, enjoying the sight of the canvas of rocks, cliffs, and valleys coming to life with vibrant colors. Upon exiting the Devil's Garden I made my way to Balanced Rock, a 3500 ton rock sitting on a thin tower of sandstone. I had to be in Missouri the next day, so I decided to begin making my way back out the park to start the long drive east. Before leaving the park, though, I stopped at the Petrified Dunes, the Courthouse Towers, Sheep Rock, and Park Avenue for a few more pictures and a last look at the natural beauty sweeping across the landscape.

I then left the park and jumped on I-70 East towards Colorado. My initial plans included stops in Colorado to see several friends, but with time running short, I pressed on passed Colorado and into the barren landscape of Kansas. After driving 12+ hours, I finally called in quits in Salina, Kansas, where I stayed for the night.