Day 1 - Zion National Park

We are at the Canyon Overlook Trail with Dr. Chris and the kids.  This short trail starts at a small parking lot near the east entrance of the Zion-Mt Carmel tunnel and leads to a fabulous view of the Lower canyon. 

   

The trail is 1-mile round trip and is mostly level and was carved out of the slickrock above Pine Creek. Andrew, our scout, finds something interesting on the trail.

Here is a photo of Chris and the kids.  From left to right, Andrew, Chris, Samantha, Trey and Sydney. 

Of course, keep an eye on your children as with most hikes in Zion, there are always exposed areas where one could fall if not careful.

Once at the viewpoint, an old metal plaque points out many prominent landmarks. Some interesting things to look for: the Route 9 switchbacks below, Bridge Mountain (the highest peak on the left side of the canyon), the East Temple (the impressive rock formation above the viewpoint to the right), and the Pine Creek stream far below. Also look closely at the canyon walls to find several of the Zion-Mount-Carmel Tunnel "windows". Relax for as long as you like then return the way you came.

After viewing the canyon overlook everyone decides to take a well deserved break for a snack and drink.  

 Halfway on the trail is a wonderful little shaded alcove with a seep and lush ferns growing out of the sandstone walls; this area provides great respite during the hotter summer months.  Chris and the kids decide its photo time.

This hike is short and sweet with a great viewpoint and everyone gives it a thumbs up!

Located at the Weeping Rock Trailhead, this is a very, very short walk up to the popular seeping wall of the park.

The weeping walls form a beautifully lush hanging garden with a little flowing stream below. This photo was taken from a platform area under the beautiful alcove with the wonderful water sprinkling from above; this is a perfect little spot for both young and old.

Speaking of young and old, its hard to tell the kids don't climb on the tree limb when Mom is leading the group.  Now which one is the kids and which one is the Mom?

One by one they all made it!  We need to talk with Mom about setting a good example for others to follow.  

The Riverside Walk heads a mile and a half up the canyon where you get wonderful views of the Virgin River as well as up-and-personal views of the lush vegetation (ferns, trees, moss) watered by the weeping walls.

Trey decides its time to look for gold.  No, that not Chris's feet in the water, its another park visitor.

Trey hangs on for the shuttle bus ride back to the parking lot.

Kathy and the girls relaxing.  We had a great first day at the park!