Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Stewart Falls

Amy and I had barely made it back from our Havasupai adventure (and that blog will be next) when we decided to venture out on a short night hike. Grandma was still here, and we all went up to Aspen Grove to hike out to Stewart Falls--something we've been meaning to do for a while now. The only problem was we started around 7:45 pm, and the hike is 2 miles each way.

We made it there just before dark, and our entire hike back was lit by the waxing gibbous moon, or it was completely pitchblack in the shadows of aspens. It was amazing fun; we made our way slowly and savored the sounds and beauty of the dark forest. Jarom was worried at times that we were lost, and Bella got a blister from her shoes so I carried her on my shoulders. Grandma kept saying "this is the best family home evening ever!" The falls were beautiful and we'll have to hike it again soon to spend a little bit more time there. But the hike alone was worth it. The saddest part was that we lost Oey's nicey, but today I plan to run up the trail and try and find it.

We made it back to the car at 10:20.


just starting out; practically running to try and get there at a good time

posing atop a forest

Jarom requested this one. I asked him why he put his hands up. He said, "Like I'm in trouble." As in, put your hands up! Pretty funny. I don't know where he got that from, but he tried to do it again before the night was over.

dusk and the moon

this was Bella hurrying down the trail

At Stewart Falls! Jarom was the first one there (notice the dirt mustache--he had just fallen). The falls are 200 feet high.

Amy and Oey

crossing the creek

Oey throwing rocks (of course) and Bella watching

caught in the dark

my backpack

Grandma's backpack

Amy's backpack

6 comments:

Maria said...

I love this hike, especially in the fall! Can't wait to hear about your trip!

heather said...

i can't believe you guys went and did this right when you got home! you got showers and such first right? okay, maybe the next day i could've hiked again but not that night, i was unbelievably exhausted, as well as everyone else, it was like pulling teeth to find anyone who could drive home. we limped into town at like 6 a.m. falling asleep at the wheel. your energy amazes me. the kids were probably so excited to get to join in the hiking fun. night hikes are awesome. i want to find every good hike in the area here and go outside every day. our havasu trip reminded me how terrible it is to be stuck indoors too much. thanks for the endless inspiration, you guys are WONDROUS.

Kimberly said...

I am glad you got your mom out for a hike. There is nothing Claudia loves more than the outdoors. I am glad you guys had a weekend away from the kids. There is nothing better for the marriage than NO responsibility. Ahhh how I long for it now.

Glory Watts said...

what a beautiful hike! I can totally picture mom saying, "this is the best FHE ever!" You guys are crazy, I think I would be soaking in the tub after backpacking for several days. Can't wait to hear all about the trip. Love you!

Ali said...

You guys are so adventurous! You are always doing such fun things and your kids are beautiful!

Susan said...

I bet the kids were glad to see you and what a way to celebrate your return. Beautiful hike and I bet it would be lovely with all the colored leaves in the Fall. I wish I could see you all and hug you right now. Love you, Nana