WOW.
In my wildest dreams, I could never have imagined the experience of driving across Utah. We entered the state via its southeastern most corner, just after leaving Page, Arizona, then made a sort of a loop, traveling west to Zion, up to Bryce, then a stunning (and at times a bit terrifying) drive to Capital Reef via the crazy road Devil’s Backbone, across a high alpine forest with gorgeous trees and snow, down through an endless line of cattle ranches, to a world so different, so stunning, so surreal it was hard to take in. Everywhere you looked, the world was made of ancient stone cliffs and a landscape so boulder-filled the only reasonable conclusion was This place has been bombed.
We could hardly speak, Tim and I, but to say would you look at that, or do you see that?, or how on earth could you possibly explain that. Cliffs, canyons, snow-capped mountains, high desert plains, desolate badlands, stair-stepped plateaus, wind-polished slick rock—all of this (and more) in conjunction with wandering cattle and a speed limit of 80. I respectfully submit the state’s motto should become:
Well why the hell not.
The national parks we saw in Utah—Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches—I can hardly breathe just listing that. Those experiences were the reason for this trip, and every single one grandly exceeded our expectations. I’ll offer more about each of them in another post, but for now, I want to show you some of what Utah had to serve up, most of which came as we simply drove from place to place.
Lordy, did we enjoy Utah.
Until next time—
Westward ho!
Cathy and Tim,
I did so enjoy reading about your enthusiasm for Utah. The pictures certainly punctuated your words. The landscapes are wondrous.
It might surprise you when I report the following statistics that the Annual State Rankings of US News and World Report just put out.
Here is where Utah falls: Economy #1, Fiscal Stability #1, Infrastructure #4,
Education #5 and Natural Environment #46.
Shout out to the Mormons.
So interesting! Yes, I’m fascinated by Utah and excited to learn more. One surprise after another! I’m delighted to have you along for this ride and I look forward to seeing you this summer! xxoo
Have enjoyed following your travels so much – thank you for sharing. I have been fortunate to have crisscrossed this country a half a dozen times including adventures at many national parks – such treasures. Have been to the parks in Utah on a couple of times and couldn’t agree more – such beauty and such a contrast to my years in NY and AK. Am about to head to the SW corner of Montana for a visit – the first time in Spring – will wave if I see you!
Hope the rest of your journey goes well – enjoy!
Barbara! I am so happy to hear from you and to have had you along on this journey. We are already talking Wyoming and Montana so I cheer you on as you begin your next adventure. Safe travels and enjoy–I know you will!
Welcome to the beautiful West, Living and working in God’s Country (he Great Southwest) A majority of my life was a blessing. Every state in this Great USA has beauty, but I love The areas that you have been seeing so far. Don’t miss Wyoming and Montana if possible.
I know you enjoyed your time in the SW. What an interesting, gorgeous place to live. (Also happy to have you and Jean back on the east coast!) XXOO
What a surprisingly beautiful state! I think we loved Utah as much as you and Tim! Gorgeous pictures! I love following your trip! Thank you 🙂
Such awesome pictures, takes your breath away
It really, does, sweet friend. How lucky I am to have had the chance to see it all. What a beautiful world we live in!
Thanks for coming along. I know you are a world traveler and I always enjoy your journeys! XXOO
Every watershed seems to have vastly different geology. We too were in awe of the beautiful desert landscapes in Utah. It sometimes looks like a different planet! Looks like you all are enjoying the journey.
It has been a few days and I still can hardly take it all in. I love my expanded world view, geologically speaking. Can’t wait to talk all about it with you and Stacy!
Love the proposed motto!!
Gosh!