Every spring for the last several years I have the opportunity to visit Utah's Dixie and do a little hiking. One of my favorite spots for an early morning hike is Snow Canyon State Park. This week I explored the Lava Flow Overlook and Whiterocks Trail. This trail is found near the park's north entrance just after passing the fee station with parking on the west side of the road. There is a $6 day use fee and if you enter from the north end of the park you are on the honor system - this fee station doesn't usually have anyone there to take your money. The trail passes through lava flows with breathtaking views of West Canyon and the Whiterocks Amphitheatre area. The burnt orange and creamy white mixture of Navajo sandstone is so unique and beautiful. And the cactus were blooming for me this year!
View of West Canyon and the orange and white Navajo sandstone.
Blooming Cactus
Even the sagebrush was blooming.
Here is another pretty little wildflower that was scattered across the desert floor.
You will always see a few of these lizards on the trail.
I hiked around for about 2.5 miles and spent a fair amount of time just soaking up the scenery. I must say I love the desert in springtime! Spend some time exploring Snow Canyon State Park - It is pretty AWESOME!
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I came across this Chinese Proverb recently "Don't just listen to what they (or I) say. GO SEE!!
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Wildflower of the Week
This beautiful wildflower is found all over the desert this time of year. It is a Palmer's Penstemon and is hard to miss. The giant pink flowers really catch your attention. Plus Palmer's Penstemon really smell good.
For myself I hold no preferences among flowers
so long as they are wild, free, spontaneous!"
Ed Abbey
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******Miles hiked tally
beginning March 22, 2013
Beginning of this Blog
265.6
