From there to Moab

Hey all

I'm the midst of the less planned out part of my trip and luckily this is serving me well. I guess the economy and gas prices have slowed down tourism because I'm finding it pretty easy to go where I want without reservations. I like being flexible! Because of this I'm wandering a bit more than planned and I've arrived at Moab (Arches area) a little early. I spent the last night at the Needles unit in Canyonlands. I had intended to stay there for 3 days but quickly learned that 3 days was too much. So, here I am! I intend to stay here and visit Arches over the next 3 days then visit the Island in the Sky unit of Canyonlands for another couple days.

So what have I been up to between my last post and now? Well here is a summary in pictures...

After leaving Capitol Reef NP I drove on a stretch of highway where the landscape gave me the feeling that I'd just landed on the moon. This believe it or not was my first taste of Utah political activism...(click on picture)

Here's another view....(click on picture) Yes, that's a spray painted target and bullet holes. What a perfect way to mix guns and peace, don't you think?

Shortly after leaving the political moonscape I arrived at Goblin Valley State Park. The park is known for it's valley of sandstone figures that look eeriely like goblins....

After getting my fill of Goblins I tackled 3 southern Utah attractions. I checked out Natural Bridges Monument, Valley of the Gods drive, and Monument Valley. Phew! Here's my version of the Monument Valley...

Then it was one to Monticello, UT. I had intended to stay here

for the night in a hotel, but the town was uninspiring and the call of southern Canyonlands beckoned so off I went. Before I got out of town I was had

to make a choice as to what route to take. I think you can guess which one I didn't choose....(click on picture)

So now, here i am in Moab and like everywhere else in Southern Utah (except Bryce) it's hot!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm sorta getting used to it, but I guess what else can I do? I'm loving Utah but I'm also looking forward to Oregon adventure. If nothing else it should be a lot cooler.

As usual, I hope all of you are doing well. Until next time...

W