USA Capitol Reef

Typical of the varnished canyon walls found throughout Capitol Reef National Park. Capitol Gorge, Grand Wash, and Cohab Canyon are several great hikes in the park with similar views, however the entire stretch of UT-24 between Torrey, Utah and Hanksville (about 48 miles/72 km) is spectacular and requires no park pass or fees.

I like late afternoon when most of this wall is in shadow.

This shot was taken from a pullout on UT-24, 1.3 miles/2.1 km east of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. Free park maps, brochures, and restrooms are available at the visitor center. Park rangers are available to answer questions. During peak summer months the Visitor Center parking lot fills quickly and can require circling the lot to snag a parking space. Access to the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive beyond Fruita Campground requires a park pass ($20 US per vehicle valid for 7 days) but UT-24 is a state highway (no fees required). Some of Capitol Reef’s best attractions such as Sulphur Creek Trail, Chimney Rock Trail, Panorama Point, Petroglyph Panels, Grand Wash, Hickman Bridge, and Cathedral Valley are accessed directly off UT-24.