In October 2011, we did a four-day, three-night backpack trip in the Kolob Canyons area located in the northwest corner of Zion National Park, Utah. John was 58 and I was 57.
We hiked down the La Verkin Creek Trail into Kolob Canyon, and the fall colors were gorgeous! Brilliant red maples were scattered amongst bright yellow oak trees on a background of green vegetation, orange rock and a deep blue sky.
The trail follows La Verkin Creek for a while.
We took the short side trail to see Kolob Arch. It is one of the largest natural arches in the world. Unfortunately, it is impossible to fully appreciate its true size as one is unable to get very close to it and there is a canyon wall directly behind it. That said, it is still impressive and well worth the effort to see it.
We continued down the La Verkin Creek Trail to Hop Valley Trail and our first campsite. Even though this trail follows Hop Creek, hikers are advised not to drink water from it. Therefore, we had stocked up on enough water at Beatty Springs to last until we anticipated reaching the next spring, about 24 hours later.
This area is used by local ranchers to graze cattle. We had been warned by another backpacker that the cows frequent the shady areas designated as campsites and the ground is covered with piles of manure. We set up our tent on the sandy beach instead.
The next morning, we crossed the broad meadow.
From the Hop Valley Trail, we took the Connector Trail to the Wildcat Canyon Trail. As we gained elevation, we began to get views of mountains.
We continued to the West Rim Trail. This scenic trail follows the rim with great views of Phantom Valley …
… and rock formations that are prevalent in Zion.
While we can appreciate valleys and meadows, it is always our preference to get up higher so we can enjoy more expansive views.
Fall had definitely come to Zion …
… and the colors were brilliant.
The West Rim Trail comes out at Scout Lookout, where it joins the trail to Angels Landing, possibly the most popular and crowded trail in Zion. Negotiating crowds at the end of backcountry trips is always difficult for us. However, we are aware that crowded, popular trails such as this provide most park visitors with their best experiences in the park. We so appreciate our physical ability that has enabled us to explore the backcountry more completely.
All photos from this trip are on Flickr.
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