By CATHERINE ELLERTON
Moapa Valley Progress
Valley of Fire State Park was buzzing with activity on Sunday. Cars were everywhere and cameras were the most important item of the day. The Park’s annual Photo Scavenger Hunt activity had begun.
Contestants began by stopping at the Visitor’s Center area to pick up a clue paper and, if needed, a map of the park. Then they head out on the hunt.
It took two of us, scavengers, to circle the Scenic Loop Road; twice each, going in the opposite direction, and then stopping to compare notes to decide that we had absolutely no idea what we were looking for. “The ‘keys’ to this hint are that it is a “musical and striking” rock formation,” the clue paper read. Finally, I spotted it – a grand piano! I thought. And, it was!
The day had started very early and very cool. An extra coat was required – just in case. Then some snacks, notebook, working pen, and, most importantly, a camera. This reporter had eagerly been looking forward to this ‘hunt’ since the previous year. What a great way to see the Valley of Fire with ‘new eyes.’
Some clues to be hunted down and photographed were: Nevada’s state reptile; a small white-tailed rodent frequently seen collecting seeds; Silica Dome; and several different Petroglyphs.
Later when I was checking in at the Visitor’s Center, I was advised that the rock formation I presented as the State Reptile was supposed to be a picture of the shell in the Center (as the rules stated). Mine was neater, I thought.
A bonus question was: “This rock is named after, species of bird in the waterfowl family.” New Park Aide, Reba McDaniel, was most helpful to those with questions and in giving me a picture of what the rock looked like. Hmmmm! I was hoping it was Atlatl Rock which has always looked like a duck head to me. Hmmmm….maybe, next year.
Ranger and Park Interpreter Chris Johnson was the person who put this whole hunt together. He was assisted by Ranger Heather Jolley.
This was a very successful hunt as over 100 hunters had checked in by noon and they still had approximately three hours to go. The prizes that were awarded to those who finished successfully were pictures and postcards of the Park and passbooks to be completed. The best prize was seeing your park with ‘new eyes.’
I vowed to visit Valley of Fire several more times, explore new areas and make notes – and next year, get the Grand Prize. Or maybe just any prize!
