I recently spent two weeks in Utah: one week visiting family and one week recovering from Covid. One of the best things about visiting Utah is hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, specifically, Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. I understand that the trails there are now terribly overrun with people, but on the days I hiked there were not too many. The altitude and the elevation gain were difficult to deal with, especially considering my Covid recovery period, but a welcome change of pace from the mostly flat walking in Brandenburg. It was great to be under blue skies, among trees and mountains, and walk next to running creeks. Thanks to family members who were able to join me on these wonderful hikes.