Visitors can explore Cathedral Valley, Waterpocket Fold, Capitol Gorge, and many more attractions in the Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park, located in the centre of Utah‘s five national parks in the USA, is quickly becoming one of the state’s most popular destinations for hiking, sightseeing and other adventurous outdoor activities, says the state’s official tourism board Visit Utah.
Recognised as a national park in 1971, the Capitol Reef National Park is open year-round and boasts multi-coloured sandstone, riverbanks, desert and varied animal species. Utah is known for impressive national parks and monuments, and Capitol Reef, the most peaceful of the Mighty 5 national parks, is where one gets to feel what earth might have been before life appeared. The board lists the top five of the most popular activities for first-time visitors.
Historic Gifford Homestead
Visitors can also buy homemade items including pies and jams in Gifford Homestead
The board says that this historic farm dates back to the late 1800s when the early pioneers first settled the area. Visitors can explore the original buildings, orchards and gardens, and buy homemade items including pies and jams. There are large grassy areas with picnic tables making this a popular place for a lunch stop.
Hickman Natural Bridge
Hickman Natural Bridge extends 41 m across a canyon
Visit Utah says that this moderate hike leads to a stunning natural bridge that spans 41 m across a canyon. The round-trip distance is over 3 km and takes about an hour. It says going early is recommended to avail a parking space and that the use of sunscreen and hat is necessary, along with carrying a bottle of water. There are few places with shade on this hike.
Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
The Capitol Reef Scenic drives through some narrow canyons in a splash of colours
This paved road takes travellers out and back about 26 km or 13 km one way, through some of the most scenic landscapes in the park. Colourful cliffs of Moenkopi, Chinle and Wingate formations tower high above that lead to narrow canyons. In addition, there are several side roads and trails that can be explored along the way. At the end of the paved road a parking lot with picnic tables and restrooms are provided.
Ancient Native American Petroglyphs
Ancient Native American Petroglyphs can be seen all along the Highway 24
Along Highway 24, the main route through the park, ancient rock art can be seen, carved in the cliff walls by the Fremont people who lived in the area between 600 and 1300 AD. There are several panels of petroglyphs that depict animals, humans, and geometric shapes.
Grand Wash Trail
The walls of the canyon rise to 244 m above, creating a dramatic contrast
The board says that another popular trail that is considered easy and ideal for all ages, especially great for multi-generation families, is the Grand Wash Trail. The trail follows a dry wash through a narrow gorge. The walls of the canyon rise to 244 m above, creating a dramatic contrast. The round-trip distance is 7 km and takes about 2 hours. The statement adds that it is recommended to watch the weather, as this is a flood drainage during severe thunderstorms.
Among the diversity of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park are exploring Cathedral Valley, Waterpocket Fold, Capitol Gorge, watching the sunset at Chimney Rock, hiking to Cassidy Arch, and taking in 360-degree views from Panorama Point just to name a few.
