You know the song “I left my heart in San Francisco” well, they obviously have never traveled to Moab, Utah. Don’t get me wrong, I love SF, but I left a piece of my heart in Moab. But, before I jump into the ‘best of Moab’ highlights let me share a little secret about MY philosophy on photography and traveling. You see, when I find a place that both captures my soul and awakens my passion for living I promise myself to live in the moment. I take a few photos and put my camera away, then and only then can I fully immerse and give myself to a beautiful place and Moab, in October, was one of those places.
Moab wasn’t just about the hiking, biking, and beautiful rock formations, it seriously touched my soul with its peaceful tranquility and the calmness of those living in Moab. Time just seemed to slow down.
It all begins with a good morning sun-kiss each and every day.
We only had a few days and day one started with a drive to Arches.
The hike up to Arches was incredibly serene.
Beauty is at every turn…
even when made by those before you.
Chippy is that you? I swear that’s Chippy from Zion.
(It’s sad to see and hear that so many visitors do not abide by a simple rule; “Do Not Feed The Wildlife.”)
Just a few more feet.
Another tease during our hike.
And then, there it was in all its beautiful glory…Delicate Arch
I took a couple of photos, put my camera (all images with iPhone) away and then we just… took it all in.
Day two took us biking over Klondike Bluff Trails
Day three took us hiking to Double Arches and …
continuing through The Devils Garden. Trust me, take the longer hikes – you will climb some amazing rocks and not be disappointed with the views.
Day four found us running in Hidden Valley. A steep climb up the side of mountain to well…a hidden valley.
The run through Hidden Valley allowed for some well-deserved moments of being “lost in thought.”
Just beyond the trails-end you’ll find the Moab Rim Traverse giving way to the Watch Tower Anasazi ruin petroglyphs. Don’t forget to look for the (21st century, but much appreciated!) petroglyph marker to give you directions.
Day five gave us moments of retrospect while hiking the trails of The Island In The Sky.
The look of excitement before our hike…
The trail leading to beautifully serene views around The Island In The Sky
…and the look of calm after such an amazing hike around the ridge.
Day five had enjoying a scenic drive on Highway 128
Some roads lead to destinations unknown while some roads lead to nowhere.
Others…
…gave us views of what felt like worlds far away
Although our visit to Moab was short, it left an impression that will last a lifetime and a deep longing to return soon, very soon.
If you have traveled through Moab we would love to read of your thoughts and perspectives. Oh, go ahead, leave some thoughts below.
-adrian
{Images by Adrian}
{Petroglyph pic by Climb-Utah.com)
