We hiked an awesome hike, probably my favorite of the trip so far. It reminded us all of the Narrows in Zion, only without the things that make that hike miserable. We knew it was a popular hike and arrive just seven minutes after the gates opened of the Coconino National Forest and parking was already tight. We we’re on the trail of West Fork Oak Creek within a few minutes, among several other small groups of hikers. It took us about a mile to pass them all and establish our groove and pace. By that point we had already experienced part of what makes this hike so special, crossing and hiking in the Oak Creek.
The hike is an out and back through a slot canyon with Oak Creek flowing through. The trail crosses the creek something like 13 times on the way out. It should be noted that creek is probably the proper name of the waterway, river could of been suitable as well. Each crossing, although not difficult, required concentration to not slip on the slimy rocks. The views were stunning. The bright red rocks shone so bright as the sun began to hit them and the rumbling creek glistened as the sun reached down to the water. There is something so intimate about hiking with the canyon walls towering on each side of us. We had lost all the other hikers and spent vast amount of time alone with the river, the canyon, and one another. It was blissful.
Ellie was in heaven. I’m writing my post hours before she’ll get to hers and I’m anxious to see if she’ll have the energy to accurately describe how she felt. She is always up for an adventure, and this hike had so many elements of adventure that she was at peace. She practically galloped across the creek, rejoicing as the water splashed up on her ankles. The smile could not be wiped from her face, the extra hop in her step could not be taken away, and her attitude was contagious. She was only bummed when we wouldn’t allow her to wade in the water above her waist.
Yesterday, while driving, Ellie asked Zak and I if we thought her goal of becoming a ranger was realistic. I was kind of taken aback by the question. I think we’ve always taught the girls they can do anything they want and I’m not sure she was expressing doubt or was just looking for confirmation that her goals are attainable. The truth is I can’t imagine her doing anything else. When I think of her future, I see her surrounded by adventure, teaching, and compassion. Those three attributes for perfectly with what we’ve seen of so many rangers. She was so pleased when we reassured her and today she seemed to hold her head a bit higher, hike with a bit more confidence, and let the whole experience soak in a little bit deeper.
The trail ended about 3.3 miles from the trailhead and we hiked about another mile farther in the creek (at that point it should definitely have been called a river.) We hiked until the water was about waist high and then turned around. We stopped for a picnic lunch on a huge boulder in the creek/river and continued downstream. We encountered thicker crowds during last mile and half, but it wasn’t awful. Except for the couple smoking pot and
