Hiking the North

The first year we returned to Utah from Boston for the summer, I realized that we had the best of both worlds. On the East Coast we could spend each moment of free time exploring a different historical site or beautiful beach. But we also have easy access to the West where we can climb the red rocks, hike in the Uintahs and spend unlimited, distraction free time with our families. During our time away from family, we have learned to play hard

 in both places, since we never know which place we call "home" is temporary. This past summer was no exception. The first four weeks of our trip were spent hiking and swimming, almost every single day. We enjoyed each hike, but several were true highlights.  

As soon as we had our bags unpacked, we headed to Big Cottonwood Canyon. I was taken back 15 years to the summer I was a Brighton Counselor. After spending ten weeks with Beehive campers, I knew this canyon well. 

 

  

I choose Lake Mary as an introductory hike for the kids. Somewhat to my surprise, they loved every moment of it. We found a snow bank to jump in, wild flowers to make into bouquets, the perfect rock for a picnic, a waterfall to watch tumble over the side of a cliff and finally a little mountain lake to throw rocks into.

Our next hike was to Lake Secret in Alta with our dear friends, the Vincents. The kids scampered ahead of MC and I as we tagged behind with Sophia. We picnicked at the base of the mountain, climbed over boulders, spotted rock climbers, marveled at the spectacular wild flowers that we struggled to keep the girls little fingers from picking and thus breaking the National Wilderness Area Rules, collected sand to return to Annie Vincent's Science teacher and, once again, finally reached the mountain lake to toss rocks into.

 

A few days later I picked MC and Celeste Buchanan up at 5:30 am for a sunrise hike to Lake Blanche, one of my favorite spots near Salt Lake. On this hike we didn't collect sand, pick bouquets or jump in snow banks. This trek was all about girl talk, gorgeous scenery, and a great, fast paced workout. Our early morning adventure was well worth the effort.

Our last Northern Utah hike was to Timpanogos Cave in American Fork Canyon. I think this trail gets steeper each time I hike it! However, the spectacular mountain views and valley below kept us going. At the top of the mountain we entered the cave for a one hour tour. Jonathan and Emilie answered the ranger's inquiries correctly, including defining and locating stalactites and stalagmites, and Annelise didn't hesitate to ask various questions that ran through her six year old mind. Besides Sophia's encounter with the cave floor and Ezra's fascination with the cave mud, this hike was another success. 

We looked forward to more adventures during the next phase of our vacation through Southern Utah.