Zion Reflection
[dropcap size=small]A[/dropcap]fter several backpacking, canoeing, and outdoors trips, Zion was still experience of a lifetime. I couldn’t believe all the wondrous sights that opened up day after day, mile after mile. Everything about Zion was beautiful and wild and just unfathomable. There were so many times I felt so small, like I seeing the world from an ant’s perspective. The way the canyon walls would rise up and tower over you was just so powerful. And I was surprised at the abundance of water that Zion had. Almost everywhere we were had a river flowing through it. The wildlife was so cool to look at, all the different pines, bushes, and small lizards and frogs which occupied every space you looked at. Zion was such a complex beautiful place, and wish I could’ve had at least five more days in the trail.
I feel like the group around me also changed the way that Zion felt. I haven’t been able to do a week long trip with Ethan and Sam, my closest friends , for so long, and it made Zion an unforgettable and amazing experience.
Something about our group’s ability to bounce off each other and work together through the whole trip was inspiring. Planning meals together and having them be a huge success was such a satisfying feeling. The nights of around our stoves while we cooked, enjoying the company and ending of the day, all of the interactions were so pleasant and fun, and I felt that we could really feel all of the backpacking spirit in the air. I loved looking over the North and South Guardian Angel, seeing
all the canyons and upcoming valleys in the soft light of the sunset. The way that we would stop talking and just gaze upon the beautiful sights of Zion and take it all in were amazing. I was just so in awe by the world, and amazed by the maturity, respect, and thoughtfulness of my group.
Most of all, I saw how Zion could transform people.
Between myself and the group, I felt we saw something that we’ve taken back home with us, and in the canyons and hot trails, we were forged as new people, awakened to the world. Thank you for all you’ve done to make this trip a reality, DiMaggio. I’ve heard of Zion from so many people, heard people talk of its beauty all across the country. I feel so privileged to have seen so much of Zion, and to have had such an amazing experience that I wanted to stay for even longer. You’ve strengthened my love for the outdoors, and I can’t wait to have a lifetime of amazing experiences like this one.
