Travel, travel travel. That’s the theme here in Zion and its been so fun, but means I have to be more intentional about reminding myself to sit down and document my adventures. Capitol Reef, Great Basin and hikes in Zion with family is what this current adventure was.

Capitol Reef is #3 of the Mighty Five in Utah, and it was a small, but enjoyable park. We hiked Grand Wash, a slot canyon style hike, went out to Hickman Bridge and tasted the famous pies made on site. We even got caught in a short rainstorm, but all ended well.

The following weekend was spent at Great Basin National Park in Nevada, and wow oh wow. This was Michael’s 100th National Park Site, and it truly did not disappoint. It reminded us both so much of Glacier National Park with the Alpine lakes and Bristlecone Pine forests. But Great Basin was unique in the fact that it has a cave system as well, 2 miles of trail known as Lehman Caves.

Work is always keeping me busy and, on my toes, here. My team is super uplifting, full of humor and good vibes. Here at Zion, the 6 mile stretch of main ‘Zion Canyon’ is what most people visit, but we do encompass 148,733 acres in total, and one of those areas is Kolob Canyons. Our Supervisor allows us to do an “exchange” program every Friday, where one of our staff members swaps out with one of theirs and we switch sections of the park for the day. I took my turn going up there recently, and it was really cool to be able to work in a different section of the park.

My duties at Kolob were very similar to what my duties at Zion would be, but the big difference was a quieter section of the park with much less visitors.

Living in National parks is a true adventure, but the best part is sharing what I learn and having experiences with wonderful family and friends who are able to come visit me wherever I go. My parents made their usual trip to the park I was employed at, so this time they came to see me at Zion!

We did the Narrows together, all the way to Wall Street, which is a 1 mile paved hike followed by 3 miles trekking in the water. Michael was able to join us, and we all did wonderful. It was a once in a lifetime experience to share and we were just beat once everything was all done!

After 9 miles we were beat! Naps and a relaxing night awaited us. Day 2 we took it easier and hiked Emerald Pools and swam in the RV Park pool.

Most of our trip was a mix of spending time together and catching up in a lowkey setting, with some neat hikes and exploring sprinkled in. As we all know, I really love my job, and I feel so lucky to be doing what I am. My parents have visited me 3 times in 2 different parks, and now they came to Zion. However, during all their visits the timing has never been right for them to watch a program of mine, until now! They extended their trip to come watch my Evening Program at the campground, a 45-minute original talk on Zion Wilderness. My colleague Kelsie has been taking ASL classes, and volunteered to take on the opportunity and experience to interpret my program the best she could in ASL, and let me tell you, she killed it! It was so special for me to be able to share the core of what I do, Interpretation, with my parents and give them a glimpse of my favorite part of the job.

It’s been another lovely few weeks, with more fun to come. My only complaint is how hot Zion is! Record heat waves this week hitting about 113 degrees Fahrenheit, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Until next time, Ranger On!