Sunday, May 17, 2020

Going walkabout.


My home state is big, ranking thirteenth in land area of the 50 states. But when it comes to population, Utah ranks thirtieth. So, you might think we’re spread pretty thin here. However, we rank seventh in the nation in the percentage of our people who live in urban areas. Then again, only four of our 29 counties qualify as “urban.” 
Which means we are pretty tightly packed in a fairly small area.
Eighty percent of our 3.2 million people live in a band some 25 miles wide and just over 100 miles long. The county I live in is home to more than a million people, on a land area that, if square, would measure just over 27 miles on a side. I can stand on my roof and see most of it.
What’s the point?
The point is, that despite it all, it’s easy to get away from it all in Utah. You can drive tens, scores, even hundreds of miles on mostly empty roads. Get off the road, and there are vast areas where you find little, if any, trace of mankind.
A few days ago, we went hiking. My oldest daughter took the photograph above. You would be hard-pressed, I think, to find a more beautiful picture or place anywhere. It’s calm, it’s quiet, it’s restful, it’s serene.
As the crow flies, it’s about three-and-a-half miles from my house.
Three-and-a-half miles.


6 comments:

  1. You're a lucky man, my friend. Stay strong. JB

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  2. Your daughter created a stunning image...and so close to your home, too. Not many of can enjoy such beauty without driving way more than 3 miles.

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    1. Thanks, Tom. We did have to hike about a mile-and-a-half to get there. As you see, well worth it.

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  3. Your daughter's photograph is like a dream, Rod. You are fortunate to have such wonderful nearby oases to retreat to. I felt horrible for all the people in urban areas who were locked in their tiny apartments without such possible escapes.
    I hope you are well.
    Tanja

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    1. It is nice, Tanja. We try to get into the mountains for a short hike every week.

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