It wasn’t as cold as I thought it might be last night. I was still pretty high (8200′). A trace of snow on the ground. This is opening weekend deer hunting in Utah. Campground has 3-4 hunting camps going on. When I left this morning there was a herd of muleys browsing in the campground and not a buck amongst them. Everyone has buck tags!

Going to be a nice leisurely drive this morning. There are only 13 spots at Natural Bridges NM. In small CGs you need to hit right at 11am, checkout time. I got a really nice spot $7. Paid for two but think I’ll stay here 3 or 4. Only two sites available this morning. I’m glad I didn’t dilly-dally. I stopped and hiked to a ruin about a mile up the canyon on my way in. I’m glad I didn’t stop at the other ones.

Got the bike down and took a nice bike ride. No traffic. This is a bit off the beaten path but not really. Walked to the visitor’s center and filled a gallon jug of drinking water. Visitor center closed Tues/Weds. Some nice hikes and ruins to see in the next couple of days. Moab is too busy and crowded for me. Lots to do but lots of people. This is a little more kicked back. Finished “Game of Thrones” and started A Clash of Kings.

My knee is feeling stronger. I just don’t want to over do it. May take it easy tomorrow and hike on Thursday, we’ll see. Good dinner, ribeye steak, fried potatoes and toasted bagel! I’m full and I’m tired. Good night.

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