Beauty comes in many forms. Sometimes beauty is in your face obvious while other times it takes a little longer to seek out. From my first scenic overlook sighting at Bryce Canyon National Park to each subsequent visit, wow was usually the first word I uttered. The scenery was breathtaking, stunning, mesmerizing, and obviously beautiful.
After spending an incredible week exploring Bryce Canyon Country, it was time to move on. Although I must admit, I could’ve easily spent another week staring at those mind-boggling hoodoos.
Our journey from Panguitch, Utah took us north through Salt Lake City, Utah. We enjoyed a quick overnight stay at Willard Bay State Park camped near the shores of the Great Salt Lake. We thought about spending a second night which would allow us to explore the main part of the state park, but the bugs were rather bad and the next day a severe storm was heading in our direction.
Thus, with high wind warnings in the forecast, we hightailed it out of there early the next morning before the 66 mile per hour gusts of wind arrived. A little over three hours later, we were setting up camp at our summer home at the Mountain View RV Park in Arco, Idaho. Al and I decided to give “Workamping” a whirl this summer which is how we ended up here. Once I get a chance, I’ll do a separate post on life as a Workamper.
The biggest draw to this part of Idaho is Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. Since arriving in Arco, Idaho, I’ve had the opportunity to visit this park a few times. During my first visit, Al and I gathered information at the visitor center and drove the scenic loop while stopping at a few points of interest. Knowing we had the entire summer to explore Craters of the Moon NM, we focused on a general overview.
On our next visit, we embarked on a hike that took me out of my comfort zone. I’m not usually a fan of enclosed spaces like caves or crowded elevators. So, I didn’t exactly jump at the thought of hiking a Lava tube tunnel, but I am on an adventure after all, and the last thing I was going to do was allow a little phobia to hinder my explorations.
On my third visit, I focused on the beauty found around this harsh landscape. Just like at Bryce Canyon National Park, I uttered the word “wow” routinely, but more in a strange and curious tone as opposed to wow that’s beautiful.
When I first laid eyes on Craters of the Moon, the word beautiful was not at the forefront. I think my thoughts were more along the lines of …. stark, harsh, unforgiving, barren, mean, bewildering, and maybe even ugly. With each subsequent visit my opinion seemed to change …. intriguing, fascinating, perplexing, and yes, beautiful.
In my attempt to find the beauty, I visited the morning after a heavy rainstorm. As I meandered along a trail, I could hear water trickling between the rocks. Birds were chirping. Chipmunks were running around foraging for food, and the wildflowers were springing to life. There seemed to be a bevy of activity.
I found myself surrounded by a strange beauty, and couldn’t help but feel a level of respect for all things surviving in this severe landscape.
I found beauty in the strangest place. I assure you, there will be more posts about Craters of the Moon. Stay tuned….
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