September 17, 2008

Red Rock Canyon

I took the kids on a field trip yesterday to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It was good to get out of the house, and though the kids seemed a little reluctant, not knowing exactly what to expect, they ended up having a blast and are already begging to go back. I'm glad I bought the annual pass! It's not a far drive from our house, and it's a great place to go exploring and picnicking, especially now that fall is on its way.


There is a 13-mile scenic drive loop with stops for trails and sightseeing along the way. I packed a picnic lunch and water bottles...though we could have used more water! Never having been before, I wasn't sure what the trails would be like. The first stop actually didn't have much of a trail at all--mostly rocks and crevasses to climb down, then up again. I was glad I hadn't bothered to go running that morning, as carrying Kenna up and down was definitely enough to get my heart rate up! The first stop was probably the most strenuous as far as our hiking efforts. Had it not been for having Kenna with us, I would have enjoyed hiking with the older kids a lot further than we went, but considering our circumstances, I think everyone had a good time.


After exploring/hiking at the first couple of stops, we decided to drive a bit to find a picnic area, about halfway through the loop. Unfortunately, there wasn't any shade available, but the food was definitely a welcome diversion. The kids played around for awhile, and then it became obvious that Kenna was approaching naptime. So we wandered on out of the park, but we will definitely be back! I plan to take my mom and dad there when they visit in October. And if it weren't for the fact that I'm pregnant, I'd seriously consider the 1/2 marathon that takes place there! What a great place to run! However...this year's event took place on March 1, so assuming it's approximately the same time each year, that means I'd be 36 weeks pregnant by time the next race comes. Don't think the doctor (or my mom!) would be too keen on having me run a 1/2 marathon at that point...





3 comments:

Unknown said...

I would pay money to see you run a marathon at 36 weeks pregnant....

As For Me and My House said...

Looks like so much fun! There is a state park about 20 miles from us and the kids spend most of our time there just climbing up and down, up and down the rocks-- they could care less about the main attraction-- Indian paintings-- but they sure do love the rocks, oh, and the bugs too!

Amos said...

YOU are an AMAZING Mom! And what a beautiful place to take the kids. Sounds like fun, wish we lived closer :(