
Day Three
Zion National Park and Rappelling
On our 1st full day at Zion, we entered the park at sunrise. I can't recommend this enough in order to see the scale of the park's canyons and the brilliant red colors. Driving up and thru, we saw people sleeping on air mattresses on the side of the road, taking advantage of the lack of Park Rangers (This is something that carries a hefty fine, so be aware).
My friend signed us up for a tour of Utah's slot canyons. If you have never rappelled before a word of caution, it is freaking terrifying. My first attempt was a 50-foot drop-off, and my knees were actually shaking. After surviving the plunge into the slot canyons, I can say it was worth it! There are things we've seen in books or on television, but trust me, it pales in comparison to the real thing. Wear proper hiking shoes and bring lots of water as it is hot and dry in the spring. Also, be prepared for scrapes and cuts as I left skin from arms and legs all over the place.
Dining: Thai Sapa is the only Asian fare in town, and if they get your order right, it's not bad. (Mine was completely messed up).
Markets in town: Sol Foods, where you can get freshly made sandwiches and other grocery needs. They also carry a selection of toiletries
Rappelling and hiking tours: Red Desert Adventure (ask for Jack)
Other Interests are the Rock and Gem Shops, but if available, rent a bike (with a battery as the hills are serious) and ride into the several bike paths in Zion.

Pa'rus Trail
Cowboy sculpture in Srpingdale
Inside Echo Canyon
Rappelling into the canyon
Echo Canyon
Echo Canyon from below
What millions of years of water erosion looks like

Taking a break between the slot canyons