Spring Break = Utah

The combination of the words "spring" and "break" will often bring a college student's thoughts to Mexico or some other place involving the beach and warm weather. For Matt Volpert, guide for Idaho River Journeys and freshman at University of California at Santa Barbara, Spring Break was a trip to Utah and six days of hiking dusty, cold, and wet terrain.

Driving 14 straight hours from Santa Barbara, California, to Escalante, Utah, was not so exciting. "From there we hiked into the Glen Canyon area and explored various creeks which featured amazing natural arches, huge canyon walls and gorgeous red rock scenery," Matt wrote. "On one of the days we were hit with wind, rain, snow and hail-all the while the weather reminded me of my decision to only wear a t-shirt because I assumed the morning sun would hang around."

From there he headed to Bryce Canyon, which he also dubbed a "geologist's dream because of the weathering that has occured there." On his last day he also checked out the Zions before committing to the 14 hour drive back home. Now, back in Santa Barbara, he doesn't have his hiking shoes on but the river booties aren't far from reach. "It's almost river season and I just can't wait to get back on the river." Well, we can't wait to hear the rest of his adventures.

Below: Taking a break while surrounded by towering rocks