southern utah in the fall

Last weekend we went on a trip with some of my family down through the state of Utah. We went off the beaten path that is I-15 and instead we got to see a lot of the more beautiful parts of the state (especially at this time of year) and make some fun stops along the way.

Red Barn in Santaquin

Manti Temple.

 Bret calls this the "Simba" pose.

Crazy enough, I'd never been to Manti before to see this beautiful building. I'd love to go back someday and see the pageant and even more importantly, go inside. I hear the interior is even more magnificent.

Our next stop was Bryce Canyon. Never been there either if you can believe it, at least not in memory, I may have gone as a wee babe. It was spectacular and it couldn't have been a prettier fall day.

A collage.

We spent the night and next day at Zion National Park, a family favorite, where we met up with my sister Amy and her family.

Ready to hike the emerald pools!

I wore my hair in a (very messy) braided wreath thing for the hike. I think it was the first time my nephews have ever complimented my hair, but only because I looked like Princess Lea on the planet of Endor.

 Taking a break at the upper pool. Thumbs up for the bottle!

 So gorgeous.

Our last stop was St. George for a couple days to visit Bret's parents who are staying at their condo for a couple weeks. We went on a quick hike with Bret's dad to see the petroglyphs on Ansazi Ridge.

And that's it folks.