I’ve seen my share of scenery: most U.S. states, four other continents and probably hundreds of tourist’s stops along the way. But I’ve never been as impressed with the sheer size and beauty of a mountain range as I was on our trip.

We drove through the mountains from Strawberry Reservoir south to American Fork canyon along a recently graded two-way dirt road (Grandpa Snow thinks they’re getting ready to pave it). The top-of-the-world view was really awe inspiring. Little did I know that that’s what the mountains looked like many miles east of the population along the Wasatch Front, alongside of Orem, Provo, Spanish Fork, etc.

Take a look at these photos.

We stopped for a photo shoot mid-way through the mountain pass to take it all in, and for Tank to mark his territory of course.

As soon as we got out of the car Eliana threw a fit because I pulled her from watching her mindless kids’ movie while cuddling with her blanket and sucking her thumb (she’s nearly six!). Happily she got over it before too long — with plenty of attention from grandma, mind you — and willingly participated in some picture taking.

Seriously, this was such a magnificent spot. I can’t wait to drive that route again.