Angels Landing: Zions National Park

Difficulty: Hard

5 miles round trip

I can honestly say that I have never done a hike quite like this in my entire life, and probably never will again. I am surprised that I did as well as I did, considering that I get scared on a ferris wheel (much to my children's enjoyment). When I first saw the spine of rock that we were going to climb up, I told Aaron that I didn't know if I was going to be able to do it, but in the end there was only one part that I peed my pants a little - the rest I was surprisingly calm. This is NOT a hike to do if you are terrified of heights, or have small children with you, but if you are daring and ready for an adventure - holy cow, this hike is for you!!

South Kaibab to Bright Angel via the Tonto Trail: Grand Canyon National Park

Difficulty: Hard

13.5 Miles

This was our first time to the Grand Canyon, and Aaron and I really wanted to experience everything it had to offer. Since we flew into our destination, backpacking was out, so we only had one day to get in as much as we could. Let me put a warning all over this hike: DO NOT attempt to do this unless you are in great shape, are an experienced hiker, and are very prepared with a lot of water and adequate food. (as a matter of fact, there are signs all of the internet and all around the park that warn hikers against doing this). If, however, you are amazing like we are (insert a winking smiley face here), read on and plan your adventure. If not, well then just sit down and enjoy the ride along with us as I share our experience.

Dirty Harry's Balcony and Peak

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Distance: Balcony 5 miles - Peak 11 miles

Discovery Pass  Required

We were joking as we were hiking up this old logging road that the hike was named after the wrong cinematic tough guy: instead of Dirty Harry, it should be called Rocky, as most of the time we were hoofing it over rocks and boulders. However, this trail was not named after Clint's gritty bad ass cop persona, but rather Harry Gault, the logger who actually forged the road many years ago. Despite the rocky assent, this hike is well worth your time, and the payoff is amazing.

Mailbox Peak

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 2.5 miles one way
Discovery Pass Required

Yup, there really is a mailbox at the peak of this hike. But, let me fore warn you now, this hike is not for the weak of heart. Do not even attempt this hike if you are not in great shape and an experienced hiker. Don't let me scare you off though: it will challenge you from the second you step onto the trail, but the payoff is totally worth it if you are in shape enough to make it to the top.

Mason Lake

Difficulty: Hard
7 miles round trip
Northwest Forest Pass Required

I have rated this hike difficult because it is VERY steep. You really are climbing up the whole mountain from practically the bottom. At one point the road came up half way before the trail started, but with so many washouts (and you will see them as you hike) most of the road was just turned into trail making this hike even longer. You really need to be in shape to go up this one, but very worth it.

Sliver Peak

Difficulty: Hard
6 miles round trip
Northwest Forest Pass Required

We do this hike almost every year we love it so much. It is a bit of a difficult hike, but so worth the view at the end. It also has all the elements of a good hike. Water, small mountain lakes, a meadow, mountain climbing, and amazing views. Who could ask for more. And, if it couldn't get better, if you go in late September, amazingly yummy blueberries!