Bucket Lists & Big Plans

Every vacation we go on, we will usually make a 'bingo sheet' with various events that we think will happen on our trip. When going backpacking in the Beartooth Mountains, we added seeing a mountain goat to our bingo sheet but unfortunately never did. For every following vacation, it became a goal of ours to spot a mountain goat (even if it did not make sense). Three years later, we can finally mark it off our bucket list! 

When we were walking along the Southern Rim trail on our way to the Bright Angel hike, we couldn't help but back in the stunning sight of the canyon! There was blue haze and red rock as far as the eye could see. We paused to take pictures of the foggy sunrise over the canyon just as a mountain goat approached us! It walked within about 5 feet of us, grazing on small plants along the pavement. As we continued to the trailhead, another one was munching on a bush on canyon wall! This experience was one that we had been looking forward to for years, and the excitement of finally seeing one of our favorite animals didn't wear off. 

Even though we had a smaller amount of time at the Grand Canyon due to alternator issues, we loved our time there! It was unforgettable!! We could not stop plotting and scheming different vacations that we could do with our friends and family. We have been so excited to be at the grad canyon and are coming up with any excuse to come back with a bigger group! 

In the past 7 parks which we have visited, we have been pleasantly surprised with how lovely everyone is. The connection with strangers on the hikes have been huge wins and the discussions with retired adventurers have inspired us. But it's also made us think. Next time we come out here (because there definitely will be a "next time"), who can we bring with us? What community can we engage with? So once this trip is over, feel free to pitch some ideas for the second coolest road trip anyone could ever go on!