Bicentennial Park Loop-- Provo, UT
Distance: 1 mile
Saturday, June 27
A Saturday morning well spent. Simon, Esther, and James started by playing on the deserted playground. We had the trail to ourselves and walked it twice. (I don't think it was a mile.) It was green and luscious. Simon liked reading all the signs throughout the trail. The kids also enjoyed seeing bugs and nature in action. They found a big spider in a web. Doughnuts were a part of this hike. The Frisbee Golf course was especially intriguing for the kids.
Cousins
Distance: 0.9 miles
Friday, July 3
This was quite the drive! The last few miles of road weren't paved, but our van made it up through the rocks just fine. My parents as well as Lindsey, Simon, and Esther joined us which was a treat. Wow, what a breathtaking hike. I can only imagine how stunning it would be in the springtime with all the wildflowers. It was still gorgeous though. The last bit was really steep and a bit scary with little kids, but I would do it again. It was safe and had spectacular views. Nana and Papa brought doughnuts which is always a highlight. The drive back down the mountain was much faster.
Canyon Nature Trail-- American Fork, UT
Distance: 0.6 miles
Wednesday, July 8
Unexpectedly, all but 1 of my piano students cancelled their lessons. We decided to make the most of it. While I taught my 1 lesson, Andrew and the kids picked up dinner, and then we headed up the mountain. Our map told us we arrived far too early, so we unpacked the car, stroller and picnic dinner included, only to find that we had a few more miles to go. When we finally arrived in the correct location, the scenery was exceptional. We started by eating on one of the shaded picnic tables. JCW's put us all in a good mood. James enjoyed the bridges at the beginning and end of the hike. He was also fascinated by the signs that explained different plants, etc. He was convinced that this was where "Word Girl'" (World Girl is a tv show) lives which was adorable. He kept looking for her.
Grotto Falls-- Payson/Santaquin, UT
Distance: 0.6 miles
Saturday, July 11
I had never been in this area before. Wow, it was gorgeous! This hike was shaded. In fact, we were all quite cold, especially in the beginning since it was about 7:45am. Once James was no longer shivering, he had the time of his life. He loved crossing the water balancing on logs and the ending did not disappoint. Our shoes did get wet and in James' case, soaked.
Distance: 0.8 miles
Saturday, July 18
My parents joined us for this hike. They had hiked it before and I had as well. Andrew was the newbie. The sun really beats down on you throughout this hike. We even went at 8am. Going mid-day would be brutal. It's pretty bleak until you reach the top and then you have incredible views. James especially enjoyed the side-view of the airport. He even got to see a few planes take off! Einstein's Bagels topped the hike off well.
Lower Bells Canyon Reservoir-- Sandy, UT
Distance: 1.5 miles
Tuesday, July 21
This hike is rated moderate and I can see why. I did it years ago and didn't remember much. James was miserable for the first while. He fell asleep on our way there and had a hard time waking up. The steep stairs right off the bat didn't help. We also went in the afternoon and is was scorching hot with little shade. The lake at the end was serene and peaceful though. There were tons of ducks that came up close to the kids which they enjoyed. James also had a blast throwing rocks into the water. The hike down was quick with way fewer tears! James collected sticks along the way down and was drawing with them in the dusty dirt. When we reached the steep, rocky stairs again, we made a game out of it and James earned the nickname, "Jumping James." Suddenly, the worst part of the hike became the best because Daddy swung James over the steps.
We are looking into investing in a hiking backpack. The carrier we've been lugging Isabelle in isn't the most supportive or comfortable. Is this hobby turning into routine?
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