Capitol Reef NP

Capitol Reef National Park Utah

As mentioned in the previous posting, there are 5 major national Parks in Southern Utah. Capitol Reef National Park may be the least known one of the group. We knew of it, but weren't planning on stopping by until I happened to talk to a couple our age while hiking at the Emerald Pool in Zion. It was directly on our way to our next stop, half way more or less and we could reserve a site!

Starting off in the late 1930's as a National Monument ( the president has the power to just create those, Congress has to create National Parks) Capitol Reef is a the name associated with a 100 mile long fold in the  earth that left a reef like rock barrier to early pioneers.

Capitol Reef Campsite - next to original orchards and general store from original settlers that sells pies!!

Like Zion, the area was settled in the second half of the 1800's by Mormon farmers and their orchards thrive to this day. We were able to book a site on line using Recreation.Gov and after driving the 150+ miles eastward from Zion, we arrived mid afternoon in time to check in, watch the 15 minute movie (they are all good folks!) setup camp for our 1 night stay and go explore!

The rock layers are dramatic

contrasts abound

many small roads lead back to  canyons where you can proceed on foot

Jeep was nice but not mandatory for access

water carved rock formations are a dominant feature

again , time to look skyward

Capitol Dome rock

After our afternoon trip and setting in for the night (a small herd of Mule Deer were doing the same across the road in the orchard) we anxiously awaited the Season opening of the general store at 8AM! The Park maintenance guy had told me the pies were excellent! I am always in search of good apple pie and at 8AM I was in line to get our pie and a cinnamon roll along with a cup of coffee. BREAKFAST! (my dad wouldn't not have approved, but what's the difference between pie and a Danish?) Most excellent and Cindy and I returned for two more pies and some Salsa. All good stuff. One guy was there and bought 27 pies at once - there is a surcharge after 3 pies!! A perfect way to wrap up our stay!

original building houses general store - just opened for 2018 the morning after we arrived

Apple pie, sourdough bread, salsa - yummy!

til next time, take care

Cooper and CJ