Lost in Coyote Gulch
Last weekend, I set out to hike Coyote Gulch in Utah, expecting a peaceful escape. Instead, I found myself caught in a battle between nature’s beauty and the harsh reality of overcrowded trails. The red sandstone arches and winding streams were breathtaking, almost surreal under the golden sun. But every turn brought another group of loud hikers, selfie sticks in hand, trampling fragile plants and shouting over the sound of the creek.
I watched as a group ignored posted signs, climbing up delicate rock formations for the perfect photo, leaving behind muddy footprints and crushed wildflowers. An older couple, clearly experienced, shook their heads in frustration, muttering about how the place used to be a hidden gem. Their disappointment was palpable, and I felt it too. The serenity I’d hoped for was shattered by the chaos of careless tourism.
By the time I reached the famous Jacob Hamblin Arch, the crowd was so thick it felt like a theme park. I snapped a photo, but it felt hollow. The wild beauty of Coyote Gulch is fading, not from time, but from us. I left with a heavy heart, wondering if these places can survive the onslaught of social media fame and disrespectful visitors.
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