Moab, post II

Friday we headed out to the San Rafel Swell and hiked Crack Canyon. Once you leave the pavement the drive becomes more interesting. Navigating the "Behind the Reef" road is kick ass (I'd love to do a road rally race on it) and the two-track road leading to the mouth of the canyon is even cooler (i.e. technical). The Nazi-Lesbian-Tree-Hugger-Subaru did awesome.

The hike in Crack Canyon is really mellow (flat). The kids were stoked to scramble on the all slabs of sandstone. About a mile in you come to a few technical spots that require some downclimbing skills. It was classic getting the kids down but even better getting ol' Izzy-dog down through the small pitches. Good hike for kids and even dogs who are willing to be man-handled up and down short steep sections of stone.

After the hike we made to 2 hour drive back to Moab and the kids HAD to play on the big sand dune across from Arches Nat. Park entrance. It was pretty classic watching the kids climbing a 100' sand dune. All went well on the descent until Madi took a huge header followed by unexpected head-over-heels cartwheels thanks to her menacing big brother. I swear we are going to rent a big brother for him so he can beat up on (or get beaten upon by, lol!)

The day was closed by fine Mexican food, a table-side magician show and Mom and Dad enjoying a fine Margarita.

We'll be back to Moab for sure.

Here's a Facebook link to pictures from the trip.

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Moab, post 1

On a whim we headed to Moab for spring break. The drive was uneventful until we hit a major wind north of Green River. First a tote went flying off the utility trailer, followed by the small charcoal grill that damned near took out a motorcyclist. The last 70 miles were spent at a snails pace so we wouldn't lose anything else. Needless to say it was a relief when we finally rolled into town.

Being spring break, all the BLM riverside campgrounds were full so we opted for a commercial campground. It's pretty plush for camping. We're happy to pay the extra cash for amenities (showers, pool, cold beer!)

Today we went to Fisher Towers and hiked out to the Titan. Last time we were here, only Ethan, Izzy and I made a quick jaunt halfway along the trail so Britt and Madi also went this time. Even ol' Izzy dog made the mellow 4 mile round trip. Pretty cool area but as a climber, I have no desire to do the routes there. Steep featured limestone versus petrified mud? No brainer there.

Tonight it's dinner at the Moab Brewery. Tomorrow we are driving to the San Rafel Swell to check out a slot
canyon and petroglyphs.

The weather has been IDEAL. Low 70's and NO WIND. This how Moab should be for every spring break.

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