Flashback - Christmas in Utah recap

Although it's nearly February, I figure it's never too late to share the last highlights of 2012. So here it is!

 Ryan and I flew to Salt Lake City just before Christmas to see my parents' new home and enjoy the holidays together. I knew we'd be in for a treat or two, but I didn't expect to have as much fun as we did.

The next two pictures sum up how much fun we had :)

Look at Dad go!

He cruises down mountains in style!

Honestly, I never thought I'd see Dad ski after his bunny slope fiasco in WV 15 years ago, but this hard working outdoor enthusiast decided he'd give it another whirl. Looking good, Dad!

When we got to Utah we, like most tourists, were awestruck by the ranges surrounding the SLC valley. Just check out the view from my parents' front yard.

The snow also drew our attention which is why we decided to build the Hungry Caterpillar on Christmas :)

We took a day trip to Antelope Island. Since it wasn't too cold in the valley (~ 40 degrees F) Dad, Ry and I decided to bike across the Great Salt Lake to the island. What a great way to stretch our legs and inhale some fresh air.

Plus the views were spectacular.

 

When we got to the island we were greeted with the last standing wild herd of bison plus coyotes, mule deer and antelope! 

 After exploring Antelope Island a little, we decided to go look for elk up in the mountains. Luckily, Mom and Dad had read about Hardware Ranch, a favorite stopping place for elk in the winter. So we boogied over to the ranch and hopped on the last sleigh ride of the evening to see the elk.

 Hardware Ranch is run by the DWR. Part of their program is to feed the elk during the winter to keep the herd out of Hyrum, a quaint neighboring city. 

 Check out the rack on the male above! 

One of the themes from our trip was snow! Which came down nearly every day we were in Utah.

 In fact, the snow fell with great fury when we were skiing. You can see how it was sticking to us (look at Ryan's facial hair).

Yes, we wore bike helmets while skiing. FYI all you east coasters...helmets are normal out west on the slopes.

 Ryan and I had a fabulous time hanging out with Mom and Dad for a week. We look forward to exploring Utah more in the future with them. And we can't wait for them to come visit us again here in NH.