Zion National Park is almost universally regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in the country, so it was fitting that it was our last stop. The most strenuous and dangerous hikes, the most compelling and expansive vistas, and (accidentally) the most luxurious accommodations all combined to make Zion an almost spiritual experience.

After selecting Zion as the final stop on the road trip, I was intent on hiking and making it to the summit of Angel’s Landing (a.k.a. The Temple of Aeolus), which is considered the crown jewel of the park. I read plenty beforehand about the overall difficulty and dangerous drop-offs (and the handful of accidental deaths) involved in the final ascent to the top of the rock, but it wasn’t until I was on a 2-foot wide sandy rock ledge hanging onto and chain and looking 1200ft down on both sides of me that I really took any of it seriously. I wouldn’t say I’m AFRAID of heights, but I’m not exactly a fan and this was really pushing my boundaries. In any case, the payoff at the top was HUGE (see below) and I’m so glad we made it to the end. Thanks to Colleen for the final push, and the extra snacks and water that kept me from passing out on the descent. (NOTE: The way down is no joke, and in my opinion was more daunting than the ascent. It’s more of a “keep yourself from slipping” than “pull yourself up” scenario on the way down, and the fatigue from the first half combined with the sandy, slippery rock face is a challenging combination. It may sound hyperbolic, but believe me, you can’t fuck up or you’re dead.)

The rest of the park was equally beautiful — it’s impossible to take a bad picture, whether you’re shooting an iPhone or carrying around 30 pounds of photo gear. Unfortunately we were only there for a day and a half and couldn’t see many of the other popular sights and formations, but that makes for a great excuse to visit again. I’m glad we got to see Arches and Bryce first, both remarkable in their own right, but Zion is truly a place of overwhelming beauty with a scale so massive you can’t help but to stand in silence and come to the realization that nature is king, and we are simply allowed to exist beside it.

Plus I found $100 at the bottom of the trail!

Angel’s Landing | Cliffrose Lodge and Gardens

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