Ancient Vistas

This view isn’t officially listed on the Canyonlands National Park map or along the road, but it’s not too hard to find with a quick search online. With a breathtaking vista of red cliffs that seem to go on for miles, the kiva , also known as False Kiva, has become a hiking destination over the years. Despite the name, it's also very much a real kiva with plenty of history with the Native American tribes that have lived in Utah. The hike there was a bit more than moderate, especially if you are in a hurry like I was to observe the evening waning to night. Even though I met a few hikers along the way and in the alcove itself, I had the entire site to myself. Placing a flashlight on the ground, I enjoyed taking my time and photographing this amazing and iconic vista. My only regret is that I didn’t take enough water, resulting in me guzzling half a dozen gatorades as soon as I got back to Moab. However, I am in no regret of spending away the hours there as this location is now closed due to incessant vandalism - an occurrence that I unfortunately find all too often on my journeys, and a topic that infuriates me.