Moab
As soon as finals ended I began my summer break by flying to Salt Lake City to visit my friend. Each time I visit Utah, I fall more and more in love with the state and the wild west. This trip was relaxing, with just a couple things planned. Those plans included camping in Moab with a bunch of friends. I was super pumped. I always wanted to see that part of Utah.
On a Saturday morning we packed a bag, loaded up the truck, and picked up 3 friends. The drive down was beautiful, as the mountainous city transitioned into dry desert.
Downtown Moab was bustling. The sidewalks were filled with mask-less outdoor enthusiasts and eclectic looking shops and restaurants lined the street.
We drove straight to the trailhead of Mill Creek trail. This trail is an up and back hike that features a waterfall and a couple swimming holes. We geared up (by gearing up I mean stuffing a plastic grocery bag with White Claws and beer) and started the descent up a beautiful canyon. Red canyon walls surrounded us as lush green trees swayed in the wind. The sky was bright blue and provided a gorgeous contrast against the red rocks. The trail path was soft orange sand that followed alongside a creek. Needless to say, my white Nike Air Max shoes were totally ruined after this excursion. Most of us just walked barefoot the rest of the time.
We finally reached the swimming hole after hiking for over an hour. At that point the sun had set in that corner of the canyon so it was a little chilly, especially in the water. We took in the view, got some pictures, and decided to head back to set up camp.
The campsite was nestled at the base of a small rocky mountain a couple miles outside of town. Our friends were a little more prepared than me and Colton. We didn’t have a tent or an air mattress so we settled with sleeping in the truck bed using all of the bedding from the apartment. The makeshift bed was a little hard but sufficed after a few drinks later that evening.
The night was filled with laughter, Dixieland Delight, drinks and stargazing while sitting around a toasty campfire enjoying each other’s company. Camping with friends is one of my favorite things to do and this trip was a memory I will forever cherish.
Head to my Instagram highlight ‘Utah’ to check out more content from this trip.
Tips:
Wear waterproof shoes/water shoes for this hike
Begin this hike early to allow time for enjoyment and plentiful sunshine
If you plan to truck bed camp, use an air mattress or sleeping bag pad
Pack warm clothes for nighttime because the temperature drops
Mill Creek Trail information: