We ventured off on our usual Christmas Day Adventure.  The backroads were mucky from the melted snow and 24° wasn’t inviting to hike, so we took a little road trip.  It was surprising how many foks were stopped at Head of the Rocks with us.  From 4 different countries and 4 nationalities.  It was pretty much a picture of the population that travels through the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument on an annual basis.  Most visitors are overseas residents with 33% from Germany, 30+% from Europe and the rest Americans.
The view of the snow-capped Henrie Mountains was as crisp and clear as you can ever see them. Â The winter days are usually wonderful for clean air and blue skies. Â We stopped for a bite to eat overlooking the grand Staircase. Â At 8,000′ we expected more snow. Â The roads were good and the plows were out cleaning up the wind drifts from the previous nights wind storm. Â The storms that come down from the North bring winds and rain/snow to the mountain tops, but rarely to the valley floors. Â When the storms come in from the south we can get a great deal of snow on the valley floors.
Just past Mile Post 103 on Utah Scenic Byway 12, there’s a clear view of the Henrie Mountains and the outer cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park. Â Their Vermillion walls stand in start contrast to the snow-filled crevices of the surrounding formations. Â As the day passes the clear skies revert to brown, the Aspen Grove shadows stretch a long ways across snow-covered meadows, and the temperature begins to fall. Â Time to go home.
Hoping your Christmas was full of joy and peace.
JR