I'm an adventurous soul on a mission to explore all 63 national parks. My passion lies in crafting short stories and sharing personal photographs that capture the essence of these remarkable journeys. Through my words and images, I strive to convey...
We decided on a whim to check out Canyonlands right after leaving Arches. The scenic drive to The Island in the Sky was absolutely breathtaking, showcasing the colorful landscape carved by the Colorado River—countless canyons, mesas, arches, and buttes.
With the sun setting, we had time for just one stop at the Shafer Canyon Overlook. From there, we admired the historic Shafer Trail, a road descending 1,500 feet down sandstone cliffs, named after the Shafer family, Mormon pioneer settlers. John "Sog" Shafer used it back in 1916 to move cows between summer and winter pastures.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, it bathed the valley below in a warm glow, creating a beautiful and unforgettable sunset—one that stands out among all the sunsets I've witnessed. Our time in Canyonlands was short, but the promise of a return visit this summer is on the horizon.
On August 12, the following day, took on a unique significance as it marked my half birthday. A half birthday falls at the midpoint between actual birthdays, a tradition I learned from hosting birthday parties at our rock climbing business, and I decided to start celebrating them too. Balloons from Party City in hand, we entered Idaho, and I felt butterflies in my stomach. After years of planning, the day had finally arrived. Beneath the state sign, I proudly held up gold numbers 5 and 0, achieving my golden 50th state. A group of four guys joined the moment, their golf bag catching my attention. Their mission to visit every state and play golf resonated deeply with my family's history in the golfing business. Capturing the moment together felt like a shared celebration, and I couldn't shake the feeling that my late father was there with me in spirit.
After celebrating at the state sign, we ventured to Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho. The journey through its lunar-like landscapes and unique geological features was extraordinary. The terrain, resembling the moon, provided a captivating experience. Exploring this cool place with fields of ancient lava, craters, and thriving plants and animals, it's also an excellent spot for stargazing at night as part of a Dark Sky Reserve. Wearing my reliable Olukai sandals, the ascent to the top of the Inferno Cone viewpoint trail at 6,181 feet was short but thrilling, offering a sensation of being on another planet amidst fascinating geological wonders.
After leaving Craters of the Moon, we headed to Sun Valley for the night. For dinner, I picked Grumpy's. The stars aligned as Grumpy's, open since 1978, was celebrating its 40th anniversary—a perfect parallel to my celebration of reaching my 50th state in 40 years. I marked this remarkable day with a Grumpy's t-shirt, proud of the memorable coincidence. Grumpy's is known as the home of the best burgers in town and offers refreshing schooners. The evening unfolded with flowing beers, and by the night's end, a touch of schooner vision.
This trip, this day will forever be etched in my memory. From soaking in roadside hot springs to celebrating my 50th state and tagging my 27th National Park, to having Delicate Arch all to ourselves and experiencing the night sky in all its glory in Idaho's Dark Sky Reserve. Not to mention, enjoying one too many schooners—it was a half birthday I'll never forget.
Next up on my travels: helping my mom achieve her 50th state status as I crown her Ms. Montana for her final state. Exciting times ahead!
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