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Crystal Sibson

The South Mineral Campground has gotten very popular in recent years. It is a first come first serve campground so get there early if you want to snag a spot. There are restrooms and trash service. The proximity to the waterfalls along South Mineral Creek and the trail to Ice Lake makes this campground perfect.

I do this hike every winter, usually in January or February. The hike up to Siphon Draw slowly gains elevation but is quite mild. The waterfall in Siphon Draw is often running in the cooler months and is a perfect spot for a snack and a photo opp before beginning the climb to the top. The rocks are quite slick in this area and the incline gets very steep. From this point on it's all uphill climbing and boulder hopping. Be sure to get an early start because you don't want to be coming down this in the dark. Once you reach the top the views of the valley are incredible.

The treasure loop trail is an easy hike n the Lost Dutchman state park that is great for beginners. There is enough elevation gain for a quick workout but overall quite easy. The views from the top of the loop are great, especially at Sunset. There are several benches along the trail for you to sit and just take in the views.

I visited Pompeii during the middle of the week in the off season. There was hardly anyone there during my visit. At times I had an entire street within the site to myself. The site is massive and can easily take a full day to explore. If you go when it's not as crowded, you will be able to cover more ground by not having to make your way through the people. Be sure to pick up a site map and the guide book at the entrance, both are free with entry.

This hike has become very popular in recent times. To avoid the crowds, be sure to go early or in the middle of the week. The trail is very exposed so be sure to wear sunscreen and bring lots of water. The main swimming hole is beautiful and has several spots for cliff jumping into the pools below.

I often hike the Wind Cave trail in the evening to watch the sunset and enjoy the views from the top. It's a short hike but the incline makes it good for a workout.

I absolutely love hiking the Narrows in Zion. I have done this hike twice, both times camping in the canyon overnight. My first hike was in August and was quite difficult. The water was deep, at times I couldn't touch the bottom. I was definitely glad I packed a small inner-tube to float my pack through those deep pools. I was the only person in my group to do, so and everyone else had wet gear. My second trip was the fall and much easier. The water level were much lower and the river much easier to navigate. I absolutely loved the colors of the trees in the canyon on that trip, and would definitely recommend hiking the canyon at different times of the year to see how much it changes.

Kayaking into Antelope canyon is quite beautiful. The canyon can be very busy and full of boats in the wider section. In this part of the canyon I would advise staying close to the side. The canyon will eventually narrow to the point where you can't even paddle. I just pushed myself along using the canyon walls.

This is my favorite hike to do in the city. It's a quick but fun hike and workout. While making your way through hidden valley keep your eyes peeled for the small petroglyph site. My favorite part of the hike is the natural tunnel and fat mans pass.

Every summer I get a group of friends together to paddle down the Salt River at night during the full moons. It's always an adventure and so much fun. We put glow sticks on our boats and paddles, especially the paddles, so you can find it if you drop it! Then we make our way down river and through the rapids. The highlight about every night trip I have done is getting to see the wild horses.