Slippery When Wet

Day 21

Zion National Park in Springdale, UT (50 cubic feet per second)

One of Jon's favored hobbies is pushing me outside of my comfort zone which, to be honest, covers a pretty small surface area. In particular, anything requiring a modicum of physicality puts me on my back foot, typically to the point where I simply decline the activity altogether. But my Mann does not allow for such begging off. And so we ended up hiking The Narrows at Zion. 

One of two labeled "strenuous" hikes at the park, The Narrows is a hike in the Virgin River. You contend with water currents pushing against you, a slippery and uneven rock bed, and cold temperatures this time of year. And, at this particular point in time, warnings about a neuro-toxic bacteria coursing through the water. Completely within the usual Elizabeth comfort zone.

Our first stop was to rent wet pants, neoprene socks, and special hiking shoes for the hike. And then sign a waiver, the prelude to any activity that I enjoy most. Suited up, we hiked the first mile on dry land before tip-toeing into the river. I immediately shot out and back to the shore.

"Something is wrong with my gear. My feet are wet!"

And that's how I found out that a "dry gear" doesn't keep you dry.

Wet and irritated, I trudged forward...and was richly rewarded with one of the most unique and challenging experiences of my life. 


















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