Zion National Park

The dictionary defines Zion as, "A place sacredly devoted to God", or a "Utopia". If you've ever been to Zion National Park you probably agree there's something celestial about this place. A short 2 1/2 hours by car from Las Vegas, it is every bit worth the drive.

I've been a few times now and I highly recommend it as an annual trip. There's plenty of lodging as you head into town... also tent camping facilities at the entrance of the park. Two hikes I highly recommend are: Zion Narrows and Angels Landing.

The Narrows is especially fun in the summer because you are literally required to hike/wade through water for a good portion of the trek. The Narrows is actually a gorge carved out by the Virgin river that extends 16-miles. The walls of the gorge do "narrow in" at certain sections. Hence the name. Because most of the gorge is under a foot, or sometimes several feet of water there's no specially marked trail. I would suggest you wear a bathing suit and t-shirt, also an old pair of sneakers. Some people wear flip flops but you can still cut your feet on the rocks with those. The rocks can also be slippery so shoes with a little traction are a good idea. Warning: If you bring a camera be prepared to carry it above your head as you wade through the water. I managed to keep mine dry, but I did see one person slip and fall in... camera and all. Ooops! Oh, one other minor detail... there is always the potential for Flash Flooding so make sure you check weather forecasts ahead of time. The Narrows offers spectacular scenery and an adventure you'll probably never forget.

Angels Landing is a great date hike. About 5 miles round trip. Here's what you do: Get there early before the sun is too hot. Pack a lunch and lots of water. The first half is all uphill. Just about the time you think you're starting to make some headway you'll get to a section that looks like stairs... yes, stairs. You'll be grateful for any time spent at the gym, on the Stair Master, etc., when you reach this point. It's challenging, but definitely do-able. To be honest I was a little out of breath, maybe even concerned my date would "out hike" me, but it leveled off just in time. Wheeew! Now comes the best part. If your date still hasn't dumped you, she just might when you reach the section of trail that requires you to cross a narrow ridge. There are drop-offs on both sides. I'm talking up to 1200 feet. There's even a wall you'll have to scale by pulling yourself up from chains that are embedded in the rocks. Good stuff. Once you've made it this far the summit is just a short walk further. You will love the views, they are simply amazing. And providing no one slipped on a ledge... your date will love you too.