ZION!!!

I love zion!!! I really do. Arrived at about 5 pm yesterday (80-odd mile day). Asked a swiss couple if they would mind if I shared their campsite (I offered to pay them but they refused). This is the best way to do campground camping I've found. I've done it three times, have yet to have to pay (although I always offer). Plus you get to meet interesting people. Just bike around the campground (I'm actually looking for other cyclists, but haven't found any yet) and then when you see some friendly looking people, just ask.

Anyway, my tent is still broken - the superglue was useless. My tent is current 'propped upright' thanks to the efforts of the South African couple next to us (and with a lot of rope, pegs, and a few rocks). My new tent is on the way from MEC, but they have no idea when it will arrive. As such I'm going to be hanging out here for the next bit.

Hiked this morning up a river, through ever-narrowing canyon walls. It was amazing. I will have no problem spending a few extra days here waiting for my tent. This place is on my top 5 list of amazing places - particularly the east section of the park that I biked through to get here. After an 8 mile climb, it was 20 miles downhill through these incredibly twisted rock formations. I have to do it again (and apparently I'll have the time) then one tunnel, and then the next.

The tunnels. I HATE tunnels. However, the second tunnel which is 1.1 miles long forbids cyclists - this is awesome cause it means that instead of having to ALMOST DIE cycling through it, the rangers standing there arrange transportation for you. Basically they flag down pick up trucks and you jump in the back with your bike. Then you get an awesome view of the tunnel and the 'windows' that have been carved out. I just wish my guy had driven slower.

ETA: Zion (Springdale) has a library!!!!!!! I am now officially totally set.

ETA: have figured out Leg Three of Tour de Sarah and have ordered maps (since I'm waiting for my tent might as well wait for my maps). I'm going to find alternate transportation from Cedar City, Utah, to Pueblo, CO and then start biking the 'Great Parks North Route' which will end me up right in Jasper!!