Contrasting Arches

Cedar Wash Road has two natural stone arches within a short hiking distance, and they can not be more different. The first one is Cedar Wash Arch, which is viewed from a ridge above the rock formation. The top of the arch slopes gently down from one side to the other, like a ramp. It looks like it might be fun to run down it, but how would we get back up? It is somewhat delicate, or refined, and the opening has the fun shape of a guitar pick. The gray-white color and the lines of each sediment layer swirl throughout these sculpted slopes. It makes me think of a blank canvas or coloring book that is waiting for someone to add pigments. This arch seems stark and lonely, leaving me wanting more from the surroundings.

The second one is the Covered Wagon Bridge, which you can walk right through. It has a more traditional shape of an arching bridge, and the stone above looks sturdy in regard to the size of the opening. We were pleasantly surprised and intrigued when we walked a short distance beyond the bridge as the powerful forces of the water have undercut the sandstone, creating a deep, recessed alcove into the rock. Tom said maybe it would make a good place to live, similar to ancient alcove and cliff dwellings we’ve seen in other parts of Utah. Now, if we could only stop the water from rushing through it every time it rained. The cooler temperatures within it were refreshing. I would love to watch water racing through these features, but I am sure the roads would be impassible when it rains. Plants and trees growing nearby add color, life, and joy to this arch that lack in the first one. Shrubs in full fall color and even captivating contortions of dead limbs added to the natural beauty. Of the two stops, I prefer this one as it feels resplendent and more inviting.

Yesterday, we went on a driving adventure and saw some historic places, grand views, and some interesting rock formations. We had 5 or 6 places that we planned to visit, but the incredibly rough and rocky roads nearly shook us to death, causing us to turn around about halfway there, and thankfully so, because I couldn’t imagine driving out of there in the dark. While we were hiking along a trail, Tom stopped suddenly, lifted up his foot, and let loose a few expletives. Unbelievably, a roofing nail had punctured through the bottom of his shoe. What we want to know is how the hell did that get on a hiking trail in the middle of the wilderness? Good thing it was a very short, or it could have pierced right through his good foot.. I could only manage to attract the thorny, sand burr like nodules that stuck to my shoes, socks, and legs. The drive gave us the chance to discuss our vehicle options, and try to narrow down the list to just a couple that we can pursue. Tom made one of our favorite meals last night: broccoli pasta. He added bacon and mushrooms too, which only enhanced the yummy factor.

Today, we made some calls, sent some emails, and now we await offers. While we had planned to move on to new surroundings, we are staying here until we have an idea which direction the vehicle trade will take place. Roast beast in gravy with mushrooms & onions atop mashed potatoes and a side of carrots for dinner. Temperatures are dropping here in southwest Utah, and we’d like to be a little farther south.

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