SOUTHWEST USA - A Road Trip - Part Two

MONDAY – leaving Moab we headed further west to the small town of Escalante. Another beautiful drive through the desert and forest.
Our accommodation for the next 2 nights was Yurts – luxury ones! We had a 7 bed and a 4 bed near each other. Amazing surroundings. Such a special place. They were fully kitted out so we could BBQ and enjoy the natural surroundings.

TUESDAY - Slot Canyon hike day. Our hosts recommended which canyon to investigate. Some are too tricky for beginners and some you need a 4WD to get to them.
BIGHORN SLOT CANYON – a 7 km walk along a riverbed that was pretty dry at this time of year.
Beautiful scenery and once we got to the canyon it was a real squeeze. Very different to Antelope Canyon in Arizona as you walk straight into it and along.
Once we got to the end we climbed up and out and then back over the top so we could look down.
TOP TIP – let someone know where you are going. Always have someone with you. It’s very remote and easy to get disorientated.

WEDNESDAY– onward towards Bryce Canyon – the fairy castle national Park.
A gentle day. Checked into our accommodation in the town of Panguitch a 30-minute drive from the National Park. We checked out the town and found a great restaurant for dinner – steaks all around!

THURSDAY – Into the Canyon.
We arrived by 0800 to beat the crowds. Our walk was about 7km and went down to the bottom of the canyon. It was sensational. So many towers of rock. Lovely colours, pinks and oranges. The climb out was hard! We weaved up the switchbacks and took our time. We thought we had reached the top – but no another 15 minutes and we were out! Stunning views.

FRIDAY – Cedar City and Zion National Park.
The drive was twisty! Through the beautiful forest, we gained a lot of height quickly.
We came across a shepherd on horseback looking after a huge flock of sheep on the open range. They had a team of Pyrenean Mountain dogs – who were working beautifully. I love coming across random things you never expect or have ever seen before.
Cedar City had a lovely historical centre and some really interesting sculptures throughout the town showcasing the settlers and how they contributed to the growth of the city.

SATURDAY – Zion National Park Day! We had tried to get permits from the lottery to be able to walk ANGELS LANDING – sadly we were not successful.
Some of the group decided to walk up to the foot of the ridge and then were able to go around to another higher peak. The National Park rangers check permits so you can not get onto the ridge without a permit and would be fined if you tried.
Zion is a shuttle bus only from May to the end of October. Parking is available at the visitor centre or in Springdale. They are regular and reliable. It’s such a popular park it can not cope with cars anymore.
There are some beautiful walks, my favourite is the Narrows, but you will get wet!

TOP TIP – if you want to do a walk which requires a permit apply as soon as possible.


SUNDAY – VEGAS BABY!
I love Las Vegas, it has so much to offer, amazing hotels which are an experience in themselves, the casinos, the shows, the weather the shopping.
Having stayed on the Strip the last few times I had visited I wanted to do something different and stay downtown in Old Vegas.
It’s a very different vibe. More edgy.
Our hotel is not one I would recommend to clients as it was more of a motel and dated but it was 5 minute’s walk to Fremont Street. I did check out hotels I would recommend so please ask me if you want to stay in this area.
The street art around here and the old-fashioned signs are something else.
The Sunday afternoon the Las Vegas Aviators were playing baseball. I had never been to a baseball match before so off we went.
What a fabulous afternoon! It was the last match of the season, and it came to the last innings. Vegas won! Amazingly as they didn’t look like they were going to.
Such a great family day out. We had HOT DOGS!! It’s a must!
It lasted about 2.5 hours -we were expecting longer and not as much excitement! I would go again!

MONDAY – exploring Fremont Street. The old casinos are gorgeous – lovey chandeliers and retro in style. We even had a flutter, never seen this before but it was cheaper stakes in Downtown. I was able to bet $5 at a time. I played roulette and came out even. I won at blackjack $40 and tipped our croupier $5 as she was helpful as we hadn’t played before!
We also investigated the Arts District for more street art and some retro shops.
The evening, we spent as a group in Fremont Street and enjoyed our last group dinner.
We went to Le Thai on Fremont Street – it was sensational. A great vibe and amazing food.

TOP TIP – look for happy hours. There are lots of places as Vegas can be very pricey! It’s worth doing some research.

TUESDAY – homeward bound!