It was Easter, but far from any other way that we have celebrated before. It felt odd (and a bit sad) not heading to worship at our church. The kids REALLY wanted to go to a church service (as did I) but sadly I could not find one anywhere near where we were staying. While there is a small town outside of Zion National Park, I was very surprised by this and looked for a church many separate times. I did pick up some little sursies, with Shiloh's help, on our Wal-Mart run a few days prior on the trip.
We headed into the park and had some delays. I had not brought my licence and the park ranger would not let us in with my Keep America Beautiful Pass without it. Thankfully, we weren't staying to far away, but did have to wait to get back in line to get into the park. Once we were in, we could not find any parking, despite circling and praying for some time. So we ventured back out, parking where we were staying, and rode the shuttle back into the park's visitors center, only to get on another shuttle to our hiking destination. This wasn't a pleasant way to start the day, but we did make it in!
We set out to do the Riverside walk, which runs along the Virgin River. However, it had been so long since we had originally left our cabin that the kids already needed a snack.
This was a very easy there and back trail with amazing views.
It was pretty crowded but there were times when it thinned out a bit.
Moss and plants growing from the wall.
There were several spots where you could play along the river.
It was fun doing so and taking a break to enjoy it and take it all in!
It was not warm enough to want to get wet at all but rock jumping was fun.
Ezra found a tree that he could fit in.
Love this season of Zoe wanting her picture taken.
The end of the trail break...Well the trail kept going into the water with the Narrows but we weren't feeling that (you have to have gear and such) and were content with the experience we did have!
Back on the shuttle to head for lunch!
We had planned to eat at Zion Lodge and were very surprised to find that there was hardly anyone there, despite the reasonable prices.
Amazing mountains to be seen out the window.
Then a little rest time in the green grass outside the lodge.
I grabbed a coffee while Ezra slowly followed a turkey around.
We then headed to hike the Emerald Pools.
Part of the trail was closed and I got a little turned around, but we eventually found our way to it.
There were some spots along the way to see some running water.
This trail seemed pretty popular, as there were a lot of other people there and sometimes smaller walkways.
Upon getting to the pool, I could not capture the vastness. There was a small trickle of water (not so much a waterfall) but a nice sight!
Beach's black and white of Shiloh.
Kids enjoyed climbing and exploring on the rocks.
We then hiked to another smaller pool before heading back.
We checked out the model fo where we hiked before we headed out of the park...
Next up we had dinner in Springdale and found the yummy Zion Pizza Noodle Co., which was housed in an old church.
The weather was perfect for eating outside!
And topped in off with ice cream from across the street.
With amazing views!
I wanted to take in one more sunset, so we set off for the Pa'rus Trail bridge.
I realized that there was a closer parking lot to our final destination, so I doubled back and moved our car...thankfully able to meet back up with the family without any issue. Good to be back with my silly crew.
There was no one else around, which did make me question if we were in the right place.
The views off the mountains were beautiful.
Girls streching!
A skateboarder even came by and took a family picture for us.
A magical goodnight.
And thankful the car was not to far, as we walked back at dusk.
Beach and I closed the night out by spending some quiet time on our little front porch and thanking God for so many things.
In truth, I really missed our normal Easter celebration and being at church, but it was such a gift to see God's glory on display throughout today!
