After dropping Jeanine at the airport, I need to switch into work mode and make a brief presentation to our sales team before our big trade show begins on Monday. As soon as that obligation is satisfied, I am back in the rental car and headed for Lake Mead National Recreation Area. 

This morning, we got up bright and early to make the two-hour drive back to Vegas so Jeanine could catch a flight back to chilly Boston. Having driven to Hurricane in complete darkness, the return trip was a completely different and thrilling experience. 

After having diner at the Zion Lodge, we head back to Hurricane, vowing that we will return to this park with the kids someday soon. 

All the canyons in Zion have been formed over the eons by water carving its way through the ancient sea bed. Flash floods are a real danger here and a small steam can turn into a raging river in a matter of minutes. 

Water and vegetation continue to shape the environment here and offer beauty in their own right. 

Hard to believe that these trees have taken root and thrived in this setting. 

Even the most simple rock face is a study in color and geometry. 

Ancient water dripping from Weeping Rock having taken thousands of years to make its way through the rock. 

This rock formation had the appearance of a whirlpool at its base. 

Everytime you turn around there is a magnificent view better than the last. 

We made extensive use of the park shuttle bus but also took three relatively easy hikes (Jeanine is still recovering from her foot surgery). Here, we pause at the upper Emerald Pool. 

In addition to the breathtaking vistas, there was plenty of interest on a macro level. Click on the photo for a closer view of this pair. 

Given our single day in the park, we were blessed with exquisite weather. 

The colors and texture of the rock formations are unbelievably varied and beautiful.