A Grand View

As I climbed the last few rocks to the end of the “Grand View” trail, it took my breath away.  We had been walking along the canyon rim for about a mile to reach this point, and had seen some amazing views, but something about this pinnacle offering panoramic views of the entire area called for silence.  A few other hikers were at the same point, but they were silent as well – it was as if a hush fell over the rocks as you reached that last viewpoint.  Amazing.  Magnificent.  Awesome.  Powerful – is our God.  There was simply no way to capture it.  It was more of a worship experience than a photograph… and so began our visit to the Islands in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park.

The kids found a shady area under a massive rock to work on their Junior Ranger booklets as Matt and I tried to take it in.  I wanted to dance, but was afraid that I would fall backward, losing my balance, and plunging all the way to the bottom of the canyon, so I sat and gave thanks.  We finally managed to drag ourselves away to explore other areas of the park – checking out other viewpoints like the Buck Canyon and Green River overlooks.  We landed at a picnic area near Upheaval Dome for lunch, where we got to see a formation that scientists are not sure about its history – some say the salt heaved out of the ground due to pressure, but others think it was the result of a meteor.

Mesa Arch forms a window into what seems like a whole other world – another picturesque spot for photos.  On the way to and from, however, I was distracted by the blooming prickly pear cacti (which many are apparently only in bloom for 24 hours).  They were gorgeous.  Finally, we walked on a narrow trail through Lathrop Meadow to yet another stunning view.  The spear grass above waist-high on both sides of the trail was only a small deterrent… the wildflowers and seemingly solitary experience was worth it (although Isaac seemed to attract more spear heads than any of us).

This park reminded me of the Grand Canyon, only more amazing.  Maybe it was the 360 degree views, the blooming wildflowers, or the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains.  Maybe it was the joy of experiencing new things together.  I can tell you that it was certainly not the gnats – out in full force.  But we all slept well, with visions of mesas and buttes rising from the canyon floor – stretched out as far as we could see.

Mesa Arch – by Isaac

Mesa arch

Long, tall

Jumping, extending, touching

Takes your breath away

Mesa arch