Zion 3

probably the least populated hike that i took was a short one called Canyon Overlook.  this trailhead required no shuttle to get to.  it is, i believe, the only trailhead you can drive your personal vehicle to that isn't in the northern part of the park.  since the parking lot is very small this means that there is a finite number of folks who can be there.

to get to Canyon Overlook you need to drive up a long windy road to the top of the plateau.  after that, you need to drive through a 1 mile long tunnel.  that was pretty crazy, it really makes you start to think about potential geological activity when you're under a mountain for that long.  after you emerge from the tunnel the very small parking lot is right there.  perfect.

the trail itself isn't long but it shows off some impressive views of all the different rock formations in the area.  this section more than anything reminded me of the canyon country i'd just left.  after a short hike you find yourself overlooking the entirety of Zion Canyon.

and here's me checking out the canyon view while eating a late lunch of salmon and crackers:

there were a few other hikes but nothing too impressive and i didn't remember my camera for one of the days.  meaning i'd have to wait for a shuttle, shuttle back to the visitor center, walk to my truck, back to the visitor center, wait for a shuttle, shuttle to the trailhead, and start the hike over.  more than anything that's what i didn't like about the shuttle system.  i've been living out of my vehicle for a bit now and it's not the first time i've done so, therefore i like to put as few barriers as possible in between me and my truck.

speaking of living in the back of my truck... BLM camping is awesome for the price tag.  though it can leave a bit to be desired aesthetically.

here's a picture of my campsite:

and all the trash 200 yards from my campsite, this is why we can't have nice things:

and here's a picture of an old nemesis that my friends from Oregon will know too well:

still, free camping.  it was a bit eerie being out there by myself after so long of camping around other people and when the coyotes started howling like nuts i began thinking about my grease covered pans outside and was very happy that i was sleeping in my truck and not in a nylon tent.  being alone was fun though, no noise except for some asshole playing his banjo poorly while sitting in a camp chair and waiting for the coffee to boil.