After Phoenix we headed north. Our first WOW was the Red Rocks Canyon. What incredible formations and colors. The Canyon led into Sedona that was full of April tourists (the summer must be crazy) and then we started up 89A with a steep climb, but with amazing red rock views from the top of the Canyon.

We spent the night in Flagstaff after first enjoying a local brewery. A fire started in the Flagstaff area right after we left, so we were quite lucky. The trip from Flagstaff to Page brought us past Tuba City on the Navajo Nation. Many years back, Paul “Yogi” Franklin and I worked with the Tuba City continuing education staff on their programming and marketing. Our final night our car window was broken and the trip from Tuba City back to Flagstaff included a dip in temperature from 90 degrees to under 30 degrees and a snowstorm. For both of us the trip was a real learning experience.

In Page, Arizona we toured the Lower Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon. Due to demand Melinda and I went on separate tours, but both of our tour guides were outstanding. The Microsoft screensaver many of us remember was taken in this Canyon. We both took many great pictures, and learned a lot about the Navajo Nation. Another sad American story.

After the Lower Antelope Canyon we hiked into the overlook of the Horseshoe Bend Canyon and from far up watched people below setting up camp along the river. During this whole day the winds were blowing crazy and we were covered with dust from head to toe. Otto looked liked a dust ball. We ended the day with a delicious Mexican dinner and a few adult beverages. Sorry JKT, no nachos!

The next day we continued on 89A and then turned onto Highway 12 named The Journey Through Time Road. Our first stop was Bryce Canyon and the hoodoos. We drove to Rainbow Point to observe the hoodoos and hiked part of the rim. What amazing colors and shapes.

From Bryce Canyon we continued to Escalante. If you ever get a chance to drive Highway 12, don’t pass up the opportunity.