Mesa Verde
My path took me right passed Mesa Verde and I just happened to have my National Parks Pass from the trip to Zion. For some reason, I decided to trail run the mile up to Point Lookout. I may be in great ski shape but, running, not so much. I had to stop a few times on the steep bit of the 500ft of gain over half a mile but was rewarded up top with wildflowers and views for days.
Treasure Falls
After my last trip to Sedona I knew I’d be back. Only this time I was driving and got to see some pretty sights along the way from Colorado. One memorable pitstop was Treasure Falls, which was gushing from recent snowmelt, especially when compared to the last time I saw it on my CDT Hike.
Four Corners
I stopped at the famous Four Corners Monument, where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona all meet. There are tons of Native Americans trying to sell jewelry and knick-knacks but I live in my car and don’t have room for things. The experience was a bit underwhelming, but doing the “4-State Challenge” here was enormously easier than when I hiked the Appalachian Trail’s “4-State Challenge” spanning 42 miles from Virginia to Pennsylvania.
Abandoned Things
Further down the road, passing through Hopi Nation, there was an old concrete factory of some kind that was currently being dismantled. The sun was setting and it made for some amazing photos! Partially because I am a nerd for abandoned settings. To end the day, I caught a great sunset at the Navajo Moenave Dinosaur Tracks and then camped nearby and enjoyed the stars, far away from towns and light pollution.
Sedona desert blooms
Alas, I arrived at my destination. The summer heat was coming in fast so my friend, Diego, and I took frequent trips to the Red Rocks swimming hole and other places to splash around. I also took a few small bike rides and hikes. I was most impressed by all of the desert plants in full bloom.
Prescott AZ road trip
Zach and I hiked Salida Gulch to find some petroglyphs. I went on some mountain bike rides. I met some pals for the Imagination Festival next to The Dells. And I saw some hilarious “InfoWarriorRides” in town.
