Western Wanderlust Chronicles

Day 3: Paria Canyon

As the sun rose over the canyon walls, casting golden hues across the landscape, we embarked on our third day of adventure in Paria Canyon. With lighter daypacks and a sense of anticipation, we set out to explore the lush oasis hidden within the desert wilderness.

A Refreshing Respite:
Hiking 14 miles along Paria Canyon, we marveled at the transformation of the landscape. The once narrow and twisting canyon had widened, revealing a verdant paradise amidst the arid desert. The Paria River, aptly named for its muddy waters, provided a refreshing reprieve as we waded through its gentle currents.

A Playful Pup and Lush Surroundings:
Our faithful companion, Prince, reveled in the opportunity to splash and play in the cool waters of the river. Freed from the weight of his backpack, he bounded along the riverbank with unbridled enthusiasm. Meanwhile, we were captivated by the abundance of lush vegetation lining the canyon walls, a stark contrast to the rugged terrain we had traversed earlier.

Tower Walls and Open Skies:
As we journeyed further down Paria Canyon, the towering walls of sandstone seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky. It was a challenge to maintain focus on our path, as we were constantly awestruck by the majestic beauty surrounding us. The canyon’s grandeur served as a reminder of nature’s remarkable power and resilience.

A Night to Remember:
Returning to our campsite at Big Spring, we reveled in the soft, cool sand beneath our feet. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we watched in awe as the stars emerged one by one, painting the night sky with their brilliant glow. It was a moment of tranquility and reflection, a fitting end to our journey through Paria Canyon.

Stay tuned for our final day as we bid farewell to this enchanting wilderness and embark on our journey back to civilization.