Capitol Reef
Utah, USA

Solid proof that ET does exist and the Fremont petroglyphs are right on the button.

Photos: Arches | Canyonlands | Moab | Grand Canyon | Zion Canyon | Bryce Canyon | Monument Valley

SW USA Pictures | Las Vegas Pictures | USA Guide | SW USA Map | USA Tours

Capitol Reef is a massive National Park crossed by a long, narrow but 1,000ft high (330m) layered wall of red, gold and white rock - known as the Waterpocket Fold - that gave the park its last name. One of the park's domes, shaped not unlike the US Capitol building - if you were boss-eyed and drunk as a skunk - contributed the Capitol bit.

Apparently Capitol Reef's glistening gold-tipped rocks gave early prospectors an excitable few moments.

Capitol Reef has an easy paved drive (25mile round trip) to the Capitol Gorge if time is lacking to fully explore the place. With stops for pictures and a short walk this could be a couple of relaxed hours.

The Hickman Bridge rock arch.

There is a very pleasant camp site at the entry to the park now, in place of the fruit-picking business.

The park and campgrounds are open year round.
The visitor center is open daily (except for major holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours during the summer season until 6:00 p.m.

Getting there: Traveling westbound on Interstate 70 Take Utah State Highway 24 west towards Hanksville (exit 149). Stay on Highway 24 for 95 miles (153 km) to reach the visitor center.

Capitol Reef National Park Service

Canyonlands Pictures and information >>>

Moab Pictures and information >>>

Photos: Arches | Grand Canyon | Zion Canyon | Bryce Canyon | Monument Valley

SW USA Pictures | Las Vegas Pictures | USA Guide | SW USA Map | USA Tours