Fall Season, Episodes 2 & 3

[wintergr3y]

capricious_k and I have dubbed this fall the Season Of Adventure, and our story is being told in an episodic format. Episode 1 was, of course, the fabulous Philly Browncoat Ball. Now we're off for a 2-part extravaganza filled with giant animals, magic, beautiful scenery, and wilderness survival!

Episode 2 takes place in Disneyland. We're driving down tonight and spending the weekend, and will be joined by series regulars fresne and miss_emelia, and possibly a couple of special guest stars. I think it's been about 10 years since I was last in the park, and a lot of stuff has changed. The last time I was there the California Adventure didn't exist, and the retro-remodel of Tomorrowland hadn't happened yet. I'm looking forward to seeing the changes.

Then in Episode 3, our exciting 2-parter continues as K and I drive to southern Utah. We're spending a week stomping around in the desert, visiting Bryce Canyon, Zion Canyon, the north side of the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, and other points of destert-y interest. As y'all know I'm a mountain/winter person even though K is a warm/tropics person, so going to the desert in the fall outside of tourist season is my clever form of compromise.

I'm especially looking forward to seeing Zion Canyon. When I was a kid our family went to Bryce and Zion while we were driving through the region, but we didn't really have time to see Zion for more than a couple of hours. I remember it being a lot like Yosemite, but all red rocks. This trip we're hoping to devote a couple of days to Zion, so I'll be able to get a much better look.

Expect many, many photos after we get back. While I'm away I'll be keeping track of the internet and responding to emails via my iPhone (wherever there's cell reception), but I'm on vacation and the keyboard is small so don't expect any novellas.

Comments

[alem.livejournal.com]

National Parks! Yay! I hope you habve a great time. I'm very jealous.

[tsgeisel.livejournal.com]

I did the 3-park package (no Arches) back in HS, many (many) years ago, and had a great time. There are definite full-day hikes in Zion that will be good, and half-day hikes for Bryce.

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon, as I recall, doesn't really open up the way the South Rim does. You don't have the full panoramic view from the top; you have to hike for a bit to get to it, as I recall. You'll find out for yourself.

going to the desert in the fall outside of tourist season is my clever form of compromise

Pack warm clothing. It may be the desert, but it's the desert at 8000 feet. 20 years ago the North Rim closed during the winter; presumably it's better now, but I wouldn't expect sweltering heat at all.

I am slightly jealous. I would like to go back with a real camera this time...

[penguingal.livejournal.com]

Have a great time! I can't wait to see the photos when you and K return.