Day 5: After the
somewhat traumatizing trip through the mountains to get to Mesa Verde, the gang
decided to forgo taking in the sites of Mesa Verde and head to the Four Corners
Monument where they were literally able to visit four states simultaneously.
And really, when else is that possible (except in those dreams where you can fly)?! After the
whirlwind tour of several feet of Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona, the
adventure continued into Arizona where the fearless adventurers spent the night
beside Lake Powell which offered lovely views and quick access to Lower
Antelope State Park.
Day 6: On to Lower Antelope. Home of absolutely breathtaking
rock formations and color gradations. And maybe some antelope, but only the lesser ones apparently...
At this park, visitors are only allowed inside for two hours
with a guide. Yet two hours was enough to see some breathtaking sites and gorgeous rock formations. Spotting of three dinosaur tracks in lower antelope was definitely
a high point (at least for the kids).
Then the group trekked to Horseshoe Bend in the intense heat (110 degrees)
for a spectacular view. Heat stroke was imminent, but lucky crisis was
diverted with umbrellas, cold water, and JM Oakes' ability to run uphill holding both heavy camera equipment and a nearly 40 pound child. That's right, not only can he drive an RV like a trucker, he can also run uphill in sand in extreme heat. Definitely a worthy travel companion!
After the hikes in Lower Antelope and to Horseshoe Bend, the entourage headed over to Jacob Lake for the night. A mere hour from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, I have been told this was hands down the best camp sight. It offered a reprieve for the heat that Harper deemed "unbearable" and the night sky was incredible with clear views of the Milky Way.
Day 7 brought an excursion to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, along with bison sighting, and mostly importantly for the twins, the location of two lizards at one of the most impressive natural features on Earth. Apparently things were a bit harrowing while trying to corral the smallest members of the crew from launching themselves off the side of the canyon in their desperate efforts to see the flowers. I am relatively sure this portion of the trip gave Meredith a few grey hairs. The prerequested parachutes, helmets, life vests, and teethers had not arrived in time, so the task of keeping the littles safe from their own lack of fear fell to the others. Clearly they did a magnificent job as expected.
Following the Grand Canyon excursion, the group once again packed into the RV to head north into Utah for a little R&R before attempting to take in Zion.
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