Hike Week

With the onset of warm weather comes the desire to be outside.  Lately, we have enjoyed the abundance of hiking trails, in "our neck of the woods".  Kate and I began the week climbing the small hill (or as I refer to it mountain) located directly East of the Temple off of Bountiful Boulevard. It is a short hike, but to save time we hiked directly up the face of this magnificent hill.  My energy level was low from already walking from our home to the trailhead.  We brought Bella just in case we happened upon a snake.  Yes, we may have referred to her as "snake bait".  We figured if someone had to be sacrificed it should be a non-human.  Really now, we love Bella and would have fought for her. With Kate's loud noises, and my heavy breathing, I am sure we scared away any would be predators.  This short hike is worth the exertion.  The view of the temple and valley are gorgeous!

Our second hike of the week consisted of  The Wild Rose Trail in NSL.  It connects to other trails as well, so you have to pay attention or your hike, or it could become very long.  It is a beautiful hike in the upper foothills of NSL.  We hiked on a day after it had rained, it was absolutely stunning with the green grass, colorful flowers, and lush trees.  On top of the trail is look-out-point.  A bench is located on top, to sit and enjoy the striking view.

Our third hike was was more of a Trek than a hike.  We decided to take a rest from our hiking, and take a leisurely walk along Bountiful Boulevard heading South.  As we strolled Mason along, Kate would say, "Just a little further," until we made it to North Canyon Park (about 5 miles round trip).  Mason was a trooper and had fun playing at the park.

Saturday was a more strenuous hike.  Our hiking crew grew to,  Meagan, Quinn, Ben, Kate, and I (and of course Mason and Bella).  Bella insisted on being carried, lazy dog, and Ben got a turn (short turn) carrying Mason on his back.  The hike begins and ends at the Wild Rose Park.  The Wild Rose trail connects with other paths leading over into City Creek Canyon in Salt Lake.  Needless to say, we took a few wrong turns, and are not sure where we ended up.  After climbing numerous hills (mountains to me), the kids would say, "oh just one more and we'll be there".  We finally gave up after 2 hours of hiking. We stopped at the top of one of the hills and enjoyed a great view looking into Salt Lake.

We finished off our excursion with free french toast at Kneader's for all mother's.  Yum!

If you wonder why we are hiking so much, the kids are planning on hiking the Na Pali Coast in June when we are in Hawaii.  It is a stunning hike with treacherous terrain.  The length is 11 miles in and 11 miles out, that has to be done in one day.  While some of the more adventurous kids will be making this hike, you will find me lounging on the beach, sipping a refreshing strawberry daiquiri - virgin of course.