Today was epic. We got up early because the parking lot at the visitors center generally fills up at around 8 o'clock. We parked there and took the shuttle bus to the lodge for a big breakfast. This time of year the only option for seeing Zion Canyon is by using the free shuttle bus system. Finding a place to park at the visitors center makes access to that system a breeze. We did a hike along the river after breakfast and eventually rode the shuttle to the end of the road for a hike, up stream, into the Narrows of the Virgin River. We were far from alone during that hike. Actually I can't really describe it as a hike. The river had a fairly strong current and the river bottom is covered in large rocks making footing treacherous. It was a challenge requiring pretty continuous concentration. The group rented some water boots that were highly recommended. See the pic. We walked up stream about 2 miles and then turned around. The gorge is very narrow and 2000 feet deep. The scenery was spectacular but for the most part everyone was intensely focused on every step so there wasn't a lot of looking around. All in all today was a good day. I doubt anyone will forget it. Tomorrow we have a boat rented on a nearby lake. Hopefully we can negate the forcast 109° temp by staying wet.
Glad they had everyone's size. I would have trouble with all the rocks. Am sure cane's helped.
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