At 5AM we departed Sedona. What a scenic ride to Utah. The timezones are ever changing. If you travel these parts, please be aware that there are a few time zones. You jump around between Mountain, Pacific and Navajo Nation clocks. Your phone takes a hot minute to catch up, but sometimes does not read Navajo Nation time. When planning certain day trips, especially any that are on Navajo reservations, make sure you check when you make the reservation, and confirm whether they are on Navajo Nation time.
While traveling to Utah, it occurred to me how poorly and impoverished the Native Americans live. I get that they have tribal sovereignty (they govern themselves), but do they live this way on purpose? Do they really govern themselves?
It actually is depressing, when you look onto their reservations, and witness shacks and shanties, what they call home. Why? I understand that we stole their land, however, I also know the entitlements that we have afforded our Native Americans over the years, or have we? There are a plethora of casinos , as well Native Americans are tax exempt, revenue from guided tours. It just makes no sense to me, I searched to find the truth. Who is benefiting? One theory is that the government keeps them down, while another theory is that their Chiefs do. After careful consideration, I think they are fucked equally by the government and their own president Ben Shelly. It really saddens me. Click on this link, it is pretty intense: https://youtu.be/APwUDx3mZ70
So we drove close to 5 hours and entered Zion National Park. Our expectations were not too high, as we arrived near 1PM. As divine alignment would have it. We flashed our “America the Beautiful” annual pass ($80) and were on our way. We got front row parking, hopped on a shuttle and were climbing The Emerald Pools within 20 minutes of our arrival! The hike is beautiful, the reward at the end incredible. Total of 3.5 miles, as we did Grotto – lower – mid and upper, then out to the lodge. We then did a beautiful nature trail named, Pa’rus, anticipating wildlife. Only a bird and a lizard were found. This was more like a walk.
So here is what you should know (an do):
Get a hotel room in the town of Springdale. They have free shuttles that run all day. Let me tell you, like Johnny on the Spot. First stop should be the visitors center for a map and chat about weather conditions. There are slot canyons, which are susceptible to flash floods, which could lead to death. Navigation on the shuttles is simple! We just got lucky, you may not, in finding a spot inside Zion. NOTE: no vehicles are allowed on the 6 mile stretch, other than the shuttles!
Most important, if planning to travel a few National Parks, invest in an annual “America the Beautiful” pass. It cost $80 and gives you entry into all the parks. Just entering Zion cost $30 per car. It could be a good savings, do the math and see if it is right for you.
We had dinner at the Stage Coach in the town of La Verkin, where we stayed. Our hotel is off the hook and equivalent to a 5 star. Hard to believe it is a La Quinta, and we only paid $106.00 for the night. We stayed 20 minutes out of Zion, only because nothing else was available when we booked.
Looking forward to the Narrows tomorrow! Peace.
Somewhere in America 