Beautiful trail, when you have a natural miracle in full view practically every step of the way *0*
. Fun fact: the story goes that as the magma cooled, it shrunk and formed stress points that radiated outward to form hexagons (the rock columns you see today). Furthermore, erosion wore away the softer ground surrounding the monument, revealing the formerly buried laccolith.
+ A peaceful stroll. Plenty of nature to enjoy.
+ Good amount of shade throughout this loop trail.
- A bit crowded. It was a pain driving in. Long line of slow-moving cars. In the middle of the week on a non-holiday at that. Don't wanna imagine the traffic on the weekend/holiday xP
+ Restrooms and water throughout the trailhead.
- But one restroom doesn't lock, another's disgusting.
- There's no civilian route to the summit. Only freeclimbing. Is your jet pack ready?
I didn't manage any encounters of the third kind. Maybe you'll have better luck ;D
Thanks Evan for the suggestion! read more