Life Elevated is Utah's tourism motto. I think it's a pretty good one. It could be interpreted in so many different ways, including literally: much of Utah is close to or greater than 1 mile above sea level*, and the many mountains, mesas, buttes, cliffs and other grandiose rock structures often tower far above you. But for me personally, Life Elevated means I had the opportunity to take this wonderful trip, for which I am very thankful. It also means I was very fortunate to have viewed some of the most amazing scenery this great country has to offer. On several occasions I sensed a profound spirituality and recognition of God's hand in all I was experiencing: at Moonscape Overlook where there was virtually no sound, no wind, and the warmth of the sun on my back; or at Dance Hall Rock where I was miles from civilization and all by myself on those out-of-this-world rocks; and at Green River Overlook where it was also was so quiet and peaceful, I could literally hear the air rushing through the feathers of birds flying through the canyon below me! Yep, life elevated.
But, like they say, all good things must come to an end, and today was the last day of my trip. I was physically exhausted and mentally drained. I missed Mary Jo, I missed my bed, I missed everyday conveniences, and I missed taking a shower. It was thus time to go (plus, I had plane reservations, so I really didn't have much choice).
But wait! I have time for one more quick hike. It wouldn't work out for any more slot canyons. They would all take too long to drive there or to hike (I guess it just wasn't meant to be). There was however one other place on my "must visit" list located on BLM land not far from my location: Corona Arch. My only reservation was how much time it would take to hike and the fact it required climbing a short metal ladder and in a couple spots holding onto safety cables. On a normal day this wouldn't stop me, but again I was tired and had limited time. However, one description of the hike indicated you could see the arch before you got to all the "serious stuff". OK, let's give it a try! If it got too late, I would simply turn around.
It was just as the description indicated. As I got to a safety cable that ascended a steep section of slickrock, the arch came into view...and with time to spare. Perfect! I started taking shots, and a few moments later, the sun's rays started to radiate over the adjacent cliff and illumiate the rocks above the arch. Even better! I wanted to stay for the whole "show" but it was time to go.
Corona Arch (right). Notice another arch at far left. 
Slickrock. The teal paint indicates the trail. 
One of the safety cables. This is a little deceiving as you could almost walk across this without it...but better safe than sorry! 
Interesting rock erosion inside this "mini-cave" 
Cool "layered" rock 
The trail crosses a railroad track (the warning signs and barriers were excellent), and I thought it was intriguing how they cut through the rock for the track. Converted to monochrome.
After a quick stop to go potty and grab a cup of coffee, I started the LAD (Long A__ Drive) back to Salt Lake City, about 4 hours (assuming I didn't run into bad traffic in the city like I did on Day 1, which I didn't thankfully). I had packed up most of my things the night before, but I still had few things to throw together, plus dispose of a bag of garbage, do a quick sweep out of the van, and top it off with gas. I did these things without problem and dropped the van off in the economy lot at the airport. I then grabbed the shuttle to the terminal, checked my bag, breezed through security, and was at my gate 30 minutes before boarding. Talk about perfect timing! Dude, you still got it!!!
The flight was uneventful, though I didn't sleep as I thought I would. Mary Jo was right there to pick me up, and we drove back to Midland. That shower sure felt good (as did Mary Jo's hugs and kisses)!
NOTE: I will post one last time, perhaps in a week or so, after I've had a chance to recover and reflect a bit more on the trip. Hopefully I'll have some more images to share, as well as my "take-aways" from the adventure. Till then, thank you all for taking the time to read my blogs. I get real pleasure in sharing these with you!
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*According to www.netstate.com, "Utah is the third highest state in the union with a mean elevation of 6,100 feet above sea level. Its lowest point is Beaverdam Wash at 2,000 feet above sea level. The highest point in Utah is Kings Peak, at 13,528 feet above sea level."
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