The day of my hike up Observation Trail landed on 4th of July weekend of 2013. That Friday temps were projected to be in high 90s, low 100s. I decided to get up at the crack of dawn to beat the late morning, early afternoon heat, as this trail would take around 4-5 hours 8 mile roundtrip, alloying for many stops along the way for pictures. For the early part of the hike, you are still protected from the sun by the rock faced cliffs as you traverse a switchback for about 1000 feet, at which you are almost at eye level looking at Angels Landing. The scenery along the way is absolutely stunning, along with a very difficult climb, made all the better by the gorgeous mountainous cliffs which get you through your screaming leg muscles wincing in pain. By the time you finally reach the top of the Observation Point Trail, you are treated to this grand vista looking all the way down the Zion valley. I broke out my packed lunch and sat atop this perch, enjoying my food and marveling at this beauty before me. Probably one of the best views I'll ever have to enjoy a meal to. Zion National Park Utah, 84767 Google Maps Location: http://goo.gl/tsxLIk
While I wanted to spend all day in the Valley of Fire and catch the sunset here, I had to make my way to Zion, about a 2 hour drive away. I was also getting up in the early AM to hike and beat the sweltering heat, so I had to get to bed early. Towards the north end of the park, on Mouse Tank Road, the terrain gets a bit more hilly with some elevation changes that add a nice flowing scenic rhythm to the vista ahead. Parts of the curvy roads tend to just float off into the distance, surrounded by this gorgeous scenery. I particularly like this shot, with the flatness of the foreground getting sucked into the ruggedness of the rocky terrain in the background. I wish I had more time to spend in this park, for I can only imagine sunrises and sunsets to be out-of-this-world spectacular! Don't miss going if you are nearby. Overton, NV, 89040 Google Maps Location: http://goo.gl/xqEE9G
The Kinkakuji Temple is one of the most famous, if not the most, in all of Kyoto. Sitting pond side, surrounded by this magnificent forest of trees, with koi floating around in the water, it is straight out of heaven. While it visually could take you to heaven, unfortunately the large amounts of tourists make it not as enjoyable. Get there early or stay late when it is about to close to avoid the crowds.
