Angel's Landing

The one trail that everyone talks about in Zion is Angel's Landing. The day before we left was that day. Yes it's Angel's Landing day. Remember people have died climbing it but then again people have died crossing the road. With Susan's blessing and a be careful, out the door I went. Am I nervous, hell no, more excited than anything. I park Precious(my truck, yes that's her name)and away I go. As soon as you get across the river you start a gentle climb, then it gets a little steeper and a little steeper.

Looking back at the trail...A good climb so far

If you weren't breathing heavy by now a series of switchbacks will test your lungs and make your legs burn. I can't ever remember feeling like this when I ran all those marathons. I haven't even got to Walter's Wiggles yet.

These were tough I have to admit

The trail does flatten out on a few occasions allowing time to get use to the higher elevations and to catch your breath.

Don't get close to the edge... it's straight down

Obstacles

Nice rock formations

This gentle part quickly ends when I got to the infamous Walter's Wiggles, a series of 21 quick zigzag switchbacks.

Walter's Wiggles

After conquering the wiggles, I reached Scouts Landing and a much needed rest was required before I ascended to Angel's Landing. Many people turn around at this point and there is absolute nothing wrong with that. As I got ready to go a really strange feeling came over me. Something I haven't felt in a long, long time...fear. As I watched others go up today was not the day that I would be going.

Chain holds help you navigate the trail up

At the end of the tree branch is Angel's Landing

As I watched people come and go I knew I had made the right decision. Enjoying the view of the canyon below and the mountains above was almost heavenly.