Capital Reef National Park preserves the Waterpocket Fold, which is giant buckle in the earth's crust along southern Utah. Scientists believe it formed about 65 million years ago. The impassable ridges are also known as reefs, which gives this park its namesake. The erosion of this over time has created wonderful colors and rock formations. The deep burnt reds come from high iron content.
This delicate wildflower is called an Indian paintbrush.
To us, sand equals beach. It is always strange to hike on sand in the mountains. But these mountains are made of sandstone and we are in the desert. So I guess it makes sense.
The unusual Cohab Canyon. We hiked this short trail after we took the scenic drive.
Erosion shows itself in all kinds of ways. This peeling appearance reminds Ryan of an old fresco painting.
This is the reason we chose this trail, to explore the "baby slot canyons" as described by the ranger at the visitor center. Its a tight squeeze to get into this one. Suck it in!
There was also a museum and bake shop selling pies. I like the address on this postcard. In 1914, only the name, town, county and state was required. We shared a mini blackberry pie for lunch. There are actually orchards inside this national park... Onward to Moab!
Total Miles: about 160
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