Adventure Buddies

If you’ve ever explored Zion National Park then you know about this hike. This hike is basically a 1,488 foot tall rock formation that leads to the most beautiful panoramic views of Zion Canyon.

If you feel the need to take on this extremely dangerous hike, then you will have to apply for a permit. I’ve heard in the past that they are often hard to secure. I had no problem at all securing a permit in the lottery system. Don’t take my word though. We talked to many people who have applied for years and never were able to get a permit for this hike. You can find more information about this hike and lottery/permit information at http://www.recreation.gov

We were given two permits for Eric and I to take on the hike together. I was a bit nervous and not certain I could handle the heights. As we were talking with the kids about it and sharing Youtube videos, our boys seemed all in. Eric decided to get up early one morning and try the hike by himself to see if he thought the boys could handle it. He came back from the hike saying it was one of the most unbelievable fun things he’s ever done and that if the boys were up for it, that he’d be happy to take them.

I then applied for the day before permits and was able to score a few more so Eric could take both boys. My momma heart was so nervous and I could barely sleep the night before. The boys packed water/snacks in their hiking bags and set out for the hike early in the morning. To my surprise, our boys were not nervous at all. They must have Eric’s hiking genes. 🙂 The picture below is at the parking lot.

Below are a few of my favorites of their day. Eric said it was one of the most memorable things he’s ever accomplished with the boys. I’m so glad he had this moment with them. I also love that the boys are old enough to remember this exciting moment.

No nerves at all. Yikes!!! I don’t think I could even attempt this.

They are almost to the top….

All smiles….so proud!!! These boys are my everything!

After 2.5 miles straight up and numerous chain holds, they made it to the top.

We had a fun girls day while the boys went hiking. Shopping and breakfast in Springdale with only the girls. With four kids it’s not often that we get to do things like this. I’m so thankful God gave us this morning. We talked, joked, and ate lots of yummy food. We sat and had iced coffee in the shade for an hour and just chatted away. I’ll never forgot this moment with my girls. Love them to pieces.

It’s crazy how tall Ellie is. She is towering over me now. Time slow down!

Breakfast at Porters in Springdale is a must. They have some of the best waffles we’ve tasted.

It was a morning well spent in one of our favorite spots in America. Zion National Park is a Meade favorite.