"If you are old, go to Zion by all means, but if you are young, stay away until you grow older....It is not well to dull one's capacity for enjoyment by seeing the finest first." Henry Gannett, US Geological Survey.
Zion National Park was my destination for today, and even though it took longer to arrive than I had thought, it was well worth the wait. Chasing rain all day, and hearing about flooding all over, I expected to have a day filled with rain. Not to be, I rode most of the morning with occasional sprinkles, but did not even break out the rain suit.
Arriving in St. George, Utah, I took the opportunity to stop at the local Harley store and pick up a quart of oil and have the service guy check out my oil leak. According to him, it was no big deal, just some leakage through the breather due to hard riding. Whether answered prayer, or normal wear and tear,
( I know which I choose), my day seemed much brighter knowing I wasn't facing an imminent breakdown.
The forty following miles to Zion was a rider's delight with twists, turns, curves, and scenery to bring a person to a standstill. Even though my posts have not done justice to the amazing landscape, it just keeps getting better.
Arriving at Zion, which doesn't seem crowded at all, even though it entertains three million visitors per year, I do notice that most people are speaking other languages; lots of Europeans and Japanese. Zion is mostly a hiker's paradise, but there are some rides for us bikers, only two really, and the main part of the scenic views are seen via the mandatory shuttle buses. In order to preserve the integrity of the canyon, and minimize the congestion, free propane powered shuttle buses take visitors along a several mile journey with narration. With several stops along the way, it is better than driving.
The influence of the early Mormon settlers is apparent, with names of points of interest such as Watchman, Temple of Sinawava, Zion, Mt Carmel Highway, and three prominent mountains in the Court of the Patriarchs; The Organ, The Great White Throne, and Angel's Landing.
Zion is a national treasure, and a stop that should not be missed.
I took a variety of pictures, but once again, they are not loading up to "the cloud", so they aren't in this post. I'll see if I can get them on FB, if you're bored and need something to look at.
Leaving the park, with rain clouds forming again, I decide to shut down early for the day in the small town at the south entrance, Springdale. This small valley community, ringed by the majestic cliffs of the park is a delight. As I unpack for the day, and began a relaxing wind-down with a ten year old Cuban Bolivar cigar given to me a few days ago by John Hawkins, I realize this may be the best cigar I have ever smoked. A fine ending to a fine day.
My "non chain" lodging for the evening.
A view from my room for the night.
The more amazing view in the opposite direction.
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