Wish You Were Here
UTAH: Sunnyvale residents Ted and Sue Larson’s travel goals include visiting each of the 62 U.S. National Parks. “Among our favorites,” Sue says, “is Zion National Park in Utah and hands-down our best Zion activity is hiking The Narrows (pictured). This 10-mile hike in the Virgin River traverses through a gorge with walls over 1,000 feet high and an opening as narrow as 20 to 30 feet wide. It is magnificent and well worth the effort!”
TRAVEL TIPS: If you eventually go, “get an early start and be sure and rent canyon shoes, neoprene socks, and a sturdy hiking pole to optimize safety and success in the hike. We recommend renting from Zion Adventure Company in nearby Springdale. A fabulous way to celebrate a successful Narrows hike is with a meal and beverage at Oscar’s Cafe in Springdale.”
UTAH: Fremont residents Mona Shah and Joe Samagond and their son Rajiv explored Utah’s Big Five National Parks in October. “During a stop at Arches National Park, we did a sunset hike to the iconic Delicate Arch,” Joe says. TRAVEL TIPS: “Arrive at the Delicate Arch parking lot at least two hours before sunset to find a parking spot. The hike to the arch is about 45 minutes — some parts are difficult. On the way down, you will be hiking in the dark and it’s beautiful. For rock climbing, hire a 1:1 guide.”
Share your travel memories and local adventures with us! Send your vacation selfies to jburrell@bayareanewsgroup. com. Be sure to tell us who’s who, where they’re from and where you are — and include travel tips to help fellow readers.