Capitol Reef...

Today we started a new regime in a new park. 

After a small tantrum from one of the party about needing two cups of coffee in bed, it was agreed by the planning committee to start bouncing out of bed shortly after dawn to get out walking in the cool part of the day.

So today were back at the van by 1 PM having done Cohab Canyon, Hickman Bridge and the Rim Overlook Trail. The highlight was the secret link canyon that Fiona found linking the Hickman bridge to the rim trail that was very sporting.

And now we are sitting in Torrey recovering.

The camp site in Fruita is 
 under cool trees with lots of animals-  deer, rabbits, squirrel, goffers and reputedly mountain lions....

Found lots of things to do so will probably stay for a few days.

A week gone already

We are now in Escalante and it feels like we have been in the US for ever.

After a second walk (sorry ..hike) around the Fairyland loop (anteclockwise again) we set off north to Escalante.

A bit lower and hotter but still bearable with care.

Yesterday we went up Lower Calf Creek to the falls and we're attacked by a huge rattle snake.  It was on the sand by the falls and kept chasing people. It only caught and ate one little girl and her parents were very sad....Well we did see a rattle snake and the rest is to impress the WIMs.

Today we got a lift into the wilderness and went into 3 canyons. Spooky ,Peekaboo and Dry Gulch. These were all very narrow and it was just like dry , warm, light caving. 

Peekaboo

Everyone is very concerned about the heat. There was a search helicopter out looking for a missing hiker, so we are taking drinking more seriously than usual.

Tomorrow we set off again and  plan to go and find out what Capitol Reef has to offer 

A Walk in the Park

Back at the RV after a wander through Bryce.
We were constantly amazed by the rock scenery but it was difficult.
It was not clear from the signs which way we had to go round the Peekaboo loop,... clockwise or anteclockwise.???
 We knew we were in a highly regulated US park and did not want to  be arrested  for breaking a rule.

So we had a discussion ...and decided that we would take the lead from the chipmunks. They were all heading (roughly) clockwise so we followed....and got back safe. 

Fantastic place so another loop tomorrow,  may be anteclockwise! 

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Bryce ....and civilisation

We are now parked up just outside Bryce Canyon in Utah and it is great. 

The temperature is pleasant and we are in beautiful mountain scenery, and sanity is returning after the strangeness and stress of Vegas. As Fiona said she felt that the casinos and size of the city were almost as foreign as Katmandu or Islamabad. 

We also had some problems with the van and the electrics. I won't go through the whole saga but after a night in a motel in Boulder City we got a new van and headed north to the country. Kevin in the Boulder City RV park was a terrific help and needs a special mention.

Today we are off to explode so more tomorrow. 

A day in Vegas.....very different with a long brunch,  a session in the gym (we had to), the Mob Museum, and the wine while watching the Bellagio fountains.

Very enjoyable..we are learning to chill

Well we have managed to get to Las Vegas and it is hot ...117 deg f...so exploring the dark and dangerous caves in the Bellagio hotel. Fiona is well prepared with all the necessities in her rucksack

Sunday and only two days left before we go... so not much to say yet