Next year marks the 100th anniversary of the construction of one of America's most scenic trails, Walter's Wiggles. An engineering marvel, the trail is carved out of solid rock along a sheer cliff. At over 5,000 feet elevation, the air is thin. Both your exertion and the scenery take your breath away. You can slow down to admire the craftsmanship of the masonry walls to reduce your gasping for air. The 21 steep switchbacks take you to Scout's Lookout, a gorgeous spot for a panoramic view of the valley. It is also the starting point for your climb to Angel's Landing, if you choose to do it. The perilous, steep trail has steel chains to cling onto as you climb. Most hikers are content with the accomplishment of ascending Walter's Wiggles, but for those who truly want a challenge, Angel's Landing is spectacular. It is not for the faint of heart. Many have died trying.
Walter Ruesch, the trail's namesake, was Zion National Park's first superintendent. The trail was his idea and he oversaw the work. If you think hiking the trail is difficult, just imagine building it. By 1985, the trail had suffered from decades of erosion and needed repair. The stone path was replaced with concrete to eliminate as much erosion as possible. Everything is expensive now, especially infrastructure. Recently, all the historic lodges at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon were indefinitely closed due to failing infrastructure, a water line. We all love our National Parks. We should all be willing to adequately fund park maintenance to guarantee future generations can enjoy and marvel at their splendor.
Take a walk with Birkenstock.
