Emerald Pool Trail in Zion NP

The 1st attraction we visited in Zion NP is the Lower Emerald Pool which is about 0.6 mi hike from the Zion Lodge. The rock formation and the water fall are very impressive.

There are many scenery spots on the way to Middle Emerald Pool. The narrow pass-way between two cliffs can be seen at many spots.

There are so many huge rocks on Emerald Pool Trail. This one is big enough for all 6 ladies to take a break on it.

The destination of our 9/27/12 hike is Upper Emerald Pool. It is a tranquilized pool up in the mountain surrounded by huge rock formations. It is definitely worth the effort of a 2 1/2 hours round trip hike.

With the wonderful atmosphere next to the Upper Emerald Pool, someone suggested to have a photo taken with our Latin Formation post. Here it is!

 This is the beautiful bridge leading to the Emerald Pool Trail. Taking a photo on it at sunset time is so nice.

Zion Lodge in Zion NP

We stayed in Zion Lodge purposely to enjoy the tranquility of Zion NP. From morning to dust, we were able to view the tremendous views of mountain full of rock formation and green vegetation.

Observation Point via East Rim Trail in Zion NP

We were so amazed by the beauty of the East Rim Trail. It is a 6 hours and 8 miles trial. It took us 7 and half hours due to frequent stops for the photo sessions. We took time to enjoy the scenery and also catch it onto photos. 

The most enjoyable part of the day is to see the countless scenery spots along the way to Observation Point via East Rim Trail. With the sun behind the mountain, we were able to enjoy the hike without worry about the burning sun. We took the opportunity to enjoy the hike.

The combination of rock formation and natural pond along with the reflection formed a beautiful picture. We took lots of photos at this particular spot.

We went to Petra, Jordan to see the rock formation few years ago. Now, without traveling overseas, we can see the same beautiful scenery in Zion NP.

We went through a lot of narrow trails on the way to Observation Point. We do have a few who are afraid of hight. It was a challenge for them, however, they all overcame the fear and reached the top of Observation Point with no problem.

Observation Point of Zion NP

After almost 5 hours hike, we finally reached the Observation Point with 6508 ft elevation. You can view the whole Zion NP from this point and it was spectacular.

Riverside Walk Trail

Riverside Walk is a paved trail follows the Virgin River along the bottom of a narrow canyon.  It was a leisure walk after a 7 1/2 hours long hike to the Observation Point. 

Angel's Landing via West Rim Trail

We took a nice and easy hike via West Rim Trail to Angel's Landing. The end of October weather in Zion NP is about the same as California weather. It was very enjoyable. Of course we stopped frequently to take lots of pictures.

There are more spectacular views on West Rim Trail. We took West Rim Trail to get to Angel's Landing Trail. It is about 2.5 miles, 3 hours round trip hike.

The last part of West Rim Trial is a zig-zag stiff climbing leading to Angel's Landing. Doesn't matter if you look up from bottom or look down from top, it will speed up your heart rate. However, it was an amazing hike.

Angel's Landing is a steep, narrow ridge to the summit with 1500 ft drops on both sides. It requires one to hold on the pre-installed chain while you climb. Some sections have no chain and you have to crawl to avoid fatal falling. You need the chain for both climbing up and down, therefore a lot of time you have to share a particular portion of chain with others when you meet with them either up or down. It is dangerous, however, it is the most rewording part of the hiking once you completed this trail.

With less than 2 ft of space for placing your feet, you really need to hanging on the chain and walking with your body close to the cliff. A mis-step will be unthinkable.

 When you reach the top of Angel's Landing, you deserve a nice and comfortable rest.

Weeping Rock Trail in Zion NP

John and Lisa discovered this nice spot and recommended us to take a look. The water dropping down to form natural rock formations. It created a wonderful scene.

Sunset Point of Bryce Canyon NP

We drove from Zion to Bryce Canyon NP on Saturday afternoon and got to the Sunset Point at sunset. The beautiful Bryce Canyon NP took our breath away. Looking from Sunset Point at sunset is just the right moment to view this natural beauty.

Looking at Bryce Canyon NP at the Sunset Point at sunset. Hoodoo is used to refer to these rock formations. By definition, hoodoo is a pinnacle or odd-shaped rock left standing by the forces of erosion.

Bryce Canyon Lodge Next to the Sunset Point

We also stayed in Bryce Canyon Lodge which is in a walking distance to the Sunset Point attraction.

Navajo Loop and Queen Loop Combination Trail in Bryce Canyon NP

The Navajo Loop Trail is wonderful. You actually climb down first. Looking down from the top of the trail, you cannot even tell where this trail leads you to. It is a zig-zag type of trail and we took a long time to get down due to all these Kodak moments.  Looking up on the Navajo Loop Trail is equally impressive. You feel like that you are in a bowl made of red rock cliffs.

Among all these red rock formations, you can still find some natural wonder. Look closely and you will see a tree is growing out of another tree. Amazing!

Several spots of the Navajo Loop Trial are so narrow that it will only allow one person at a time. Once you pass it, you will have a wonderful vegetation in front of you.

We hiked from Navajo Loop Trail to Queen Loop Trial which has a lot of red rock formation laying out just like Queen's garden. It offers different scenery then Navajo Loop Trail.