Moab in May

Remains of the old dam along Mill Creek, just past the beginning of the hike.

Sue and Keetna heading up the dusty trail.

Soon enough the trail descended to the verdant stream bed. Here we are at the junction of the North and South forks of Mill Creek.

The destination for most hikers is this large pour-off pool. Looks like a great place for a selfie!

Keetna appreicated the cool water.

I hiked a bit further, to get the view back down canyon. The route continues some distance, but we wanted to get back to our motel and then join Roger and Susie for some adult beverages.

Stream crossing on the hike out of Mill Creek. Keetna had fun in the water, but the sandy section near the end of the hike was hot for her feet.

The following day, we took Roger and Susie on a hike I had learned about last year from friends. It's not marked, not too well known, and hence has a more secluded feel than many of the Moab area trails.

Have to watch your head coming under this overhang.

Sue, Susie and Roger hiking up the slickrock

Roger and Susie pausing after a climb

Sue at the not-quite dry pour off pool at the head of our first canyon.

Making our way out of the first canyon.

View from the saddle looking towards Corona Arch

Monolith on the other side of canyon 2.

Sue has the technique for scrambling into canyon 2.

Roger and Susie heading down.

Desert varnish on the sheer canyon wall

Sue, along one of the pools in canyon 2, which is picking up the nice reflected light from the canyon walls. As the canyon became brushier, and the day grew hotter, we decided to cut the hike short and start back.

A telephoto view of Bowtie arch.

Bowtie and Corona arches

A blooming prickly pear along our off-trail route near Moab. These were the showiest flowers of the hike. The Red Rock country is always astonishing!