Capitol Reef National Park

This morning, July 22nd, we drove to Capitol Reef National Park, an easy 30-40 minute drive from our camp. We hiked part of Grand Wash which is similar to the Narrows only there is no river. It is also much wider in most spots. It is still subject to flash flooding however. An inch of rain in the nearby mountains can cause a wall of water and debris to come through Capital Gorge, pictured above. The next day the canyon can look as dry as if it never happened. We also drove the scenic route of the old wagon trail.

We had yummy homemade pie and ice cream at the  historic Gifford house. This town (Fruita, Utah) is known for its fruit orchards. Unfortunately they are between seasons so there is nothing we can pick ourselves right now. Probably the first time I ever ate pie and ice cream at 11:00am! 

Below is the view straight down from where Bridget and I were standing!

As you might have guessed, we didn't get to Bryce. We didn't want to give up a day in Zion and to back track from where we are now is 2 hrs one way. Do-able, but we'd rather have an extra cool day in the mountains-so Bryce and Grand Staircase monument will have to wait until the next trip!!