Martin's Cove

Friday we went to Martin's Cove.  For those who don't know, it's where the pioneers were caught in a snowstorm during their trek to Utah.  They suffered fatigue, starvation, frostbite, and anything else you can imagine.  Over 200 people died there.  The LDS church has a great visitor center up there that anyone can go to and see the memorials to these pioneers that suffered so much (and it's free!).  As I walked the trail, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed at what these pioneers went through for religious freedom.  They had been persecuted so much.  They did this for me!  Pulling a handcart for a few miles didn't seem too bad, but can you imagine 1500?  I am grateful for pioneers that took that journey so I could be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  I would recommend that everyone take the chance to visit this sacred place.  We are fortunate enough to live only 5 hours away.

This is a kid sized handcart the kids pulled around for a little bit.

Ready, set

Go!

Taking a break

All the kids helping daddy pull the handcart.

Isaac's first ride in the backpack.  I wasn't sure how he would do, but he loved it.  He never cried the whole time...and it was a while.

He looks innocent, but...

 I love this picture!

My goofy girl

Sweet boy....loves to smile!

This is the Sweetwater River.  It is beautiful and winds around like a snake.

After a mile, you have to park your handcart and walk another 1.5 miles into Martin's Cove.  The kids are great hikers.

This is right at the cove.

On the way back...Jackson was tuckered out.

This is devils gate...we didn't get to hike there, but hope to go back and do that next time.