Our Reunion
Lafayette High School Class of 1985
Zion National Park Retreat
Dates: 9/9/26 - 9/14/26 (can be extended if needed)
NO DOGS are allowed on this trip. We will be staying in nice houses and attending parks where dogs are not allowed.
Our Reunion Tour
Me, Pattie Christensen hosting a tour for the friends of my Lafayette High School class of 1985 at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
Perched at 6,500 feet near Orderville, Utah on Zion’s scenic east side, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offers unforgettable lodging, guided adventures, and family-friendly activities. Plus, you’re surrounded by breathtaking red rock views and cooler mountain air, making it the perfect scenic experience.
When & Where
We love to see you soon
1st Day
Zion Ponderosa Ranch
- Wednesday, September 09, 2026
- TIME: 11:30 AM - 01.00 PM
- LOCATION: Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
- Utah, USA
2nd Day
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
- Thursday, September 10, 2026
- TIME: 2:00 PM - 06.00 PM
- LOCATION: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
- HOST: Pattie
- DIFFICULTY: Low to Medium
- DESCRIPTION: This is the famous Coral Pink Sand Dunes. We will drive right to the sand dunes. For low difficulty, simply stay at the deck, read the signs and watch the dunes. For medium activity, try to run up the dunes, go sand boarding (equipment there) or go on the Sandsquatch Adventure.
3rd Day
Crimson Canyon Slot
- Friday, September 11, 2026
- TIME: 9:00 AM - Noon
- LOCATION: Coffee Shop, Orderville
- HOST: Pattie
- DIFFICULTY: Low
- DESCRIPTION: Meet at the Coffee Shop in Orderville Utah. East Zion Adventures drives everyone to a private slot canyon. Minimal walking. Amazing picture opportunity.
3rd Day
Bryce Canyon
- Friday, September 11, 2026
- TIME: Noon to Dark
- LOCATION: From Coffee Shop to Bryce Canyon
- HOST: Pattie
- DIFFICULTY: Low
- DESCRIPTION: We will drive to Bryce Canyon and stop at many of the viewpoints along the way. Likely no time for the hikes but the views are amazing!
4th Day
Observation Point
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- TIME: 9:00 AM - 02.00 PM
- LOCATION: Zion Ponderosa
- HOST: Pattie
- DIFFICULTY: Medium
- DESCRIPTION: Four miles each way out to a place where you see all of Zion from the top. If afraid of heights, don’t get too close to the edge – go with your comfort level. Walk is fairly flat – 2 spots with minor inclines. There are maybe 5 or 6 spots with slightly uneven footing. I can give walking sticks to those who want a little extra security. [Do NOT do this if you have only been at altitude for less than 24 hours!! That is why I scheduled this later in the trip.]
4th Day
White Mountain Horseback Riding
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- TIME: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- LOCATION: Orderville
- HOST: Christy
- DIFFICULTY: Low
- DESCRIPTION: 1 hour ride out to a slot canyon and back. Beginner level.
4th Day
Smores and More Jeep Tour
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- TIME: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- LOCATION: At The Resort
- HOST: Pattie
- DIFFICULTY: Low
- DESCRIPTION: Cozy up under the stars on our exclusive sunset Jeep tour with breathtaking celestial views, warm s'mores by the fire, and expert guidance through the galaxy!
The best mirror is an old friend
George Herbert
Places We Will Go
Other Places To Visit On You Own
Our Reunion Chef
Omar Abou-Ismail
Born in Beirut, Lebanon. Raised in Nigeria, West Africa. I came to the US when I was 17 and studied Geophysics from the University of Utah. My father had cancer and passed away in December 2004, and ever since I have been trying to figure out the correlation cancer has to our overall health and the health of the Environment.
Founder and Owner of Rawtopia, an organic restaurant the features healthy food since July 4th, 2004. Located in the Millcreek / Salt Lake City area.
I love creating delicious food in a healthy way, not just for my body, but for the sake of this Sacred Planet, utilize the abundance from our organic local farmers and make healthy food for the community. Food made from scratch with love.
Event Attractions
Accommodation
Sonya Byrd will be in charge of Room Assignments. Reach out to her on our WhatsApp group for special requests. The two houses where everyone will stay are "The Gathering Place" and "Suite Serenity Vacation Home"
Documentation
We will be going into State and Federal Parks. If you have Park Passes, be sure to pack them.
What to Wear
Utah is a high desert. Plan on layering. Short sleeves and jeans in the day with jackets in the evenings. Bring multiple pairs of shoes in case you get one wet or dirty. The houses have washers and dryers.
Celebration
In addition to the reunion activities, Pattie’s birthday is on September 12!
Parking Area
There is ample parking at each house.
Food & Drinks
Meals will be prepared by Omar (see above). You can also bring your own food and drinks. Both houses have large refrigerators
Will You Attend?
Let us know you will join us in this beautiful trip with your old friends. Hope we will enjoy great time together.
