Lower South Desert Overlook, Capitol Reef National Park, UT – July 2015

Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah. Its main feature is the 100-mile long Waterpocket Fold – a giant wrinkle on the earth. The scenic park drive only offers a glimpse of the geological features found in the area. Further exploration by foot or 4-wheel drive is a must!

-Stay: Located in the nearby town of Torrey, UT, the Rim Rock Inn offers convenient accommodations for a reasonable rate. The hotel has 2 good restaurants on site and is close to the park entrance.
-Hike: The Capitol Gorge trail (2 mi. rt, easy) follows a wash that cuts through the Waterpocket Fold, with canyon views, petroglyphs and pioneer inscriptions. A moderate spur trail to a series of water pockets is also worth it.
-Drive: The 59-mile Cathedral Valley Loop offers visitors access to the much less travelled northernmost section of the park. If you have the time and a suitable vehicle – it took us 6.5 hrs in our rented Jeep – the views are plentiful and absolutely stunning.
-Drive: The Burr Trail Road offers a unique approach to the park, travelling through its southern section. We drove the entire 68-miles from Bullfrog, UT to Boulder, UT, including an infamous series of switchbacks climbing 800 feet in half a mile! Even though some sections are paved, check with a ranger beforehand to make sure the road through the park is passable to all vehicles.