Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
View from the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, a 10-mile-long paved road providing access to unpaved spur roads and to popular trailheads.
A hidden gem known for its stunning geological features and rich history, Capitol Reef was established in 1971 and covers nearly 242,000 acres. It is famous for the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile warp in the Earth's crust. This unique geological feature creates a dramatic landscape of colorful canyons, ridges, buttes, and monoliths.
The park is open year-round and home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes and over 200 species of birds. Evidence of human habitation in the area dates to 700 AD and the park preserves petroglyphs and other artifacts from that period. Numerous scenic drives and 200 miles of marked trails showcase the park’s breathtaking landscapes, and it is an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
[Sources: Wikipedia, NPS.gov, and Earthtrekkers.com]
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
View from the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, a 10-mile-long paved road providing access to unpaved spur roads and to popular trailheads.
A hidden gem known for its stunning geological features and rich history, Capitol Reef was established in 1971 and covers nearly 242,000 acres. It is famous for the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile warp in the Earth's crust. This unique geological feature creates a dramatic landscape of colorful canyons, ridges, buttes, and monoliths.
The park is open year-round and home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes and over 200 species of birds. Evidence of human habitation in the area dates to 700 AD and the park preserves petroglyphs and other artifacts from that period. Numerous scenic drives and 200 miles of marked trails showcase the park’s breathtaking landscapes, and it is an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
[Sources: Wikipedia, NPS.gov, and Earthtrekkers.com]