Moab, Utah, Part 1 - April 16 &17, 2007 (Re-run)

 The history of Moab goes back thousands of years with Native Americans, but for Europeans can be traced back to 1829 when it was part of the Old Spanish Trail as a crossing point for the Colorado River.  It has evolved over the years, serving as a trading center for travelers, a major uranium mining and processing area, and now a world class tourist destination and mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.  With a population less than 6000, millions of visitors each year give it a thriving economy.  Two national parks, a state park, the Colorado and Green Rivers, plus one of the few north-south highways in the state, all combine to attract tourists.  Thousands of square miles of red rock buttes and canyons beckon hikers, mountain bikers, rock climbers and off-road fans from all over the world.  Many movies have been filmed here, as well.  It is indeed a very special place.

 

At the edge of town, the Colorado River has carved a path through colorful sandstone, creating some beautiful scenes and hundreds of natural campsites.  The river offers a multitude of water activities, from whitewater rafting to leisurely floats to thrilling jet-boat tours. 

Signs of ancient Anasazi presence, in the form of rock art, can be found all around Moab.  On this occasion, we observed an elementary school field trip to visit some of the art.