On Thursday morning we got an early start to Bryce Canyon National Park. Driving only 170 miles is an easy day and one of the advantages of traveling in 3 states compared to trekking cross-country.
We checked into the North Campground in the early afternoon and were not too impressed. We finally found one of the easier sites to back our 30' 5th wheel into that was not right on the road. I guess that we are getting spoiled; we are used to roomy sites and lots of privacy at most of the National Park campgrounds. As soon as we got set up, we explored the Bryce Amphitheater and were awed by the panoramic views of stunning geological formations. We hiked from Sunrise Point to Sunset Point and then on to Inspiration Point at 8100 foot elevation.
As we looked at the stunning rock castles, the forces of nature once again dazzled us. The intricate spires and formations are called Hoodoos, “a pillar of rock, usually of fantastic shape, left by nature”. They indeed cast their spell!
Friday morning was a little cool but just right for a quick hike before Julie, my niece, and her family arrived. We were happy to see them waiting for us when we got back to our campsite. It was so good to see Julie and her husband Mark again and we were thrilled to meet Jordan, Sara, and Aaden.
Over lunch, Julie and Mark filled us in on what was going on in their lives and the kids kept us entertained.
We got a kick out of Sara who kept calling me, Poppy. That is what the kids called Julie's Dad and my brother who died three years ago. After lunch, we took a drive and some short hikes along the scenic rim from Sunrise Point to Bryce Point at the 8,331 elevation.
When we got back to our site, we built a fire so the kids could roast their hot dogs and had “michigans” for dinner. I did not realize that my niece Julie had never had one even though her Dad tried for years to get her to try one. We always assumed everyone that grew up in the North Country of New York State loved them. Sara and Jordan roasted marshmallows and we made smores. Yum! We had chocolate from one end of us to the other! Julie, Mark, and Aaden slept in the tent and Jordan and Sara joined us in the 5th wheel.
On Saturday morning, we could hear Aaden letting his Dad know that he was not happy that his Mom went to the store for coffee. Before long, we were all up and outside ready for a pancake and bacon breakfast. Bob and I went for a hike before the heat of the day on the Navajo/Queens Garden Loop with a gain of of 600 feet. It was fascinating to gaze at the unique formations from down in the canyon as compared to the rim.
Julie, Mark and the kids drove the 18 mile scenic road with 14 overlooks with expansive views. We met back at our campsite for lunch and relaxation time. There was plenty of room for the kids to run around and play. It gave Julie and I a chance to talk and get caught up while Bob and Mark got to know each other. Before long it was time for dinner and another campfire. Sara was cold and snuggled up on her best new buddy's lap by the fire. When it was time to get ready for bed, we got a chuckle when she said, “thanks Bobby”. We were so impressed with Jordan and Sara's behavior and manners and complimented Julie and Mark on what a good job they are doing as parents. We could not believe how brave Aaden, who will not be 2 until December, was walking around in the dark without a care in the world. Jordan had his light on the leatherman's tool that we gave him so we found a little flashlight for Aaden. He immediately started for the nearby campsite to visit the dog and kids. After the fire died out, it was time for bed.
Sunday morning was cool but started to warm up as the sun came up. After breakfast together, we said our goodbyes and hugged before they started their long drive home.
It was a fun weekend and we hated to see them go. Bob and I hope that they can all get to Alaska someday. We spent the day relaxing and enjoying our last lovely, starry night in Bryce.
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