Zion National Park
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Emerald Pools Zion National Park |
March 26, 2009
Near the end of a day so blustery that I have done no other walking thus far,
I will brave the wind and low-40s temperature. This trail is on my
must-do list, and today is the last opportunity on my schedule.
The trail is paved all the way to the Lower Pool, which isn't much to look at. The real attraction is the falls.
Along the canyon floor
Beautiful stuff
The trail is close enough to the base of the falls that one can get wet from the spray. On a warmer day, that would be welcome.
Another view
A short trail winds around the right-hand side of the cliff to Middle Emerald Pool, which lies just above the brink of the falls. There isn't much to see here except a marker admonishing hikers to stay away from the edge of the cliff. Over the years, seven people have died here doing something stupid — even more than on the Angels Landing Trail.
To the Middle Pool
Brink of the lower falls
Middle Emerald Pool
It's a shame that the canyon tree frogs have not yet made their appearance. Their amazing songs can pervade the atmosphere with good cheer.
Canyon view
From here a quarter-mile spur trail leads to the final destination, Upper Emerald Pool. This path is quite a bit more primitive than the others; it seems that I will have to earn my visual treat.
And an awesome sight it proves to be! A high vertical wall surrounds me on three sides. At its base is a colorful pool with a sandy beach.
An inspiring amphitheater
Upper Emerald Pool
Moreover, this oasis just happens to lie underneath another waterfall in what
just happens to be one of the half-dozen most beautiful places I've ever
seen! Even though this arena is directly viewable from the highway,
being inside it makes all the difference in the world.
The prettiest place in the park — or most anywhere else
This east-facing area is entirely in the shade during later afternoon. Might it be better in the morning sunlight? I'll have to try that sometime and find out.
Behind the falls
Heading back to the trail junction, I veer right to continue the loop. Returning this way increases the total walk by about a quarter of a mile. It also remains high on the hillside until the very end, providing better views than on the lower trail.
The alternate return route
It's getting late
Northward canyon view
Southward view
A shot of the only flower type on today's trail brings me to the end my walk.
Oregon Grape
End of the line
§: It was cold out, and somewhat breezy; I was loath to remove a glove
even in order to take a photograph. No wildlife was observed, and virtually
no flowers were in evidence. My good rating is based solely upon the views of
the falls themselves, which were stunning. Under ideal conditions, this
hike could rate a '10'.
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| Solitude |  |
