Exploring the Wonders of Capitol Reef National Park and Beyond 🌄

Join me on an exciting adventure through the stunning landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park, where vibrant colors and breathtaking views await. From river crossings to unique geological formations, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and delicious tacos in Green River, Utah. Let’s dive into the details of this epic road trip!

Table of Contents

• Starting the Adventure: Cathedral Valley Loop 🚙
• Into Capitol Reef National Park 🌵
• Temple of the Sun and Moon 🌞🌙
• Chasing the Sunrise at Factory Butte 🌅
• Green River Tacos and Unique Art 🍽️🎨
• Frequently Asked Questions ❓

Starting the Adventure: Cathedral Valley Loop 🚙

Good morning, everyone! It’s an early start as I embark on the Cathedral Valley Loop. The sun is just about to rise, and I can already feel the excitement building. The trail isn't too crazy, but there is a river crossing involved. Don't worry; you don't need a specially built rig to enjoy this trail. There are tons of amazing sights to see along the way, so let’s get going!

The river crossing is located at the beginning of Hartnett Road. If you plan to travel clockwise on the loop, you’ll find the river bottom is hard-packed, with the water being about a foot deep. If your vehicle can’t handle fording the Fremont River, you can always start at Cathedral Road and go counterclockwise, but keep in mind this will require an out-and-back trip.

Trail Details and Scenic Highlights 🌅

The entire drive is about fifty-seven point six miles, and I recommend setting aside six to eight hours if you plan to stop at all the overlooks, grab some lunch, and do a bit of exploring. One of the most striking features of this area is the hills that boast bands of white, purple, and red. These colors come from bentonite, a clay that transforms with exposure to the elements. Trust me; the colors are incredibly vibrant!

Make sure to time your visit for sunrise. The early morning light enhances the colors, making them pop like nothing else. There’s a little pull-off area to stop, so keep an eye out for it. If you have a drone, this is a fantastic spot to fly it since you’re not yet in the national park, and this area is BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land.

Into Capitol Reef National Park 🌵

After enjoying Bentonite Hill, I made my way into Capitol Reef National Park. The first overlook gives you a stunning view of the lower south desert and Jailhouse Rock. The hike from the parking lot to the overlook is only a quarter of a mile—super easy! And trust me, the views are totally worth it.

As I continue along the loop, I’m eager to hit as many trails as possible. Each overlook offers unique perspectives of the breathtaking desert valleys. It truly feels like stepping back in time; you can almost imagine dinosaurs roaming the landscape below.

Historical Landmarks and Natural Wonders 🏜️

During my explorations, I stumbled upon a fascinating cabin that was built in the 1920s. It was disassembled and reconstructed here in 1932. For forty years, it served as a bunkhouse for cowboys, always stocked with food and supplies for travelers needing shelter.

Then, I came across a sign for a gypsum sinkhole. What can I say? It is indeed a very big hole! I can now check that off my bucket list. Next up was Glass Mountain, a mound of selenite crystal that sparkles beautifully in the sunlight. The crystals form when water carries dissolved gypsum through the sandstone.

Temple of the Sun and Moon 🌞🌙

My next stop was the Temple of the Sun and Moon, which marks the last features in the national park before returning to BLM land. After a full day on the trail, I decided to grab some food at a local spot in Hanksville. I was exhausted but excited for what the next day would bring.

Chasing the Sunrise at Factory Butte 🌅

The following morning was chilly but incredibly beautiful. I woke up early to catch the sunrise and took my drone out for some stunning shots. The landscape here feels otherworldly, with gray soil that resembles the moon against the brilliant blue sky. It’s simply breathtaking.

This area around Factory Butte is designated as OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) land, which means you can explore freely without being confined to trails. If you have a dirt bike or side-by-side, there's so much to discover in this vast expanse!

Aerial Views and Thrilling Experiences 🎈

As I was exploring, I spotted three people flying around on what I believe are called paramotors. They were buzzing around the area, and it looked like an absolute blast! It’s definitely something I want to try in the future.

If you’re enjoying this journey, make sure to like and subscribe so you won't miss any of my upcoming adventures. The excitement doesn’t stop here; there’s still so much more to explore!

Green River Tacos and Unique Art 🍽️🎨

Sadly, my time in Hanksville came to an end, and I packed up to head to Green River for some tacos and local art. I may have ordered a bit too much, but those tacos were absolutely delicious! In my opinion, a good taco should have meat, onion, cilantro, and a little lime. If you can nail those ingredients, you’ve got a winner!

After my taco feast, I visited a fascinating art installation called "The Ratio," which is based on a mathematical concept. The top of the structure is capped with twenty-three karat gold! This project was financed by landowner Herbert Steiner and built by artist Andrew Rogers, who has installations worldwide.

Elements of Nature 🌍

Steiner also commissioned another project titled "Elements," which features four thirty-three-foot tall columns representing earth, fire, water, and wind. If you’re road tripping through Utah, make sure to stop by and check these out. They’re truly unique pieces of art!

Before wrapping up, I highly recommend visiting Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse Canyon for even more breathtaking scenery. The adventure doesn’t have to end here!

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

1. How long does it take to complete the Cathedral Valley Loop?

The drive is approximately fifty-seven point six miles and can take six to eight hours if you stop at various overlooks and do some exploring.

2. Is the river crossing difficult?

The river crossing is about a foot deep and the bottom is hard-packed. Most vehicles should be able to handle it, but if you're unsure, you can start from Cathedral Road instead.

3. What’s the best time to visit for photography?

For the best colors, try to arrive at sunrise. The early morning light enhances the vibrancy of the landscape.

4. Are there dining options in the area?

Yes, there are local spots to grab food, especially in towns like Hanksville and Green River. Tacos are highly recommended!

5. What are the must-see attractions in Capitol Reef National Park?

Don’t miss the Temple of the Sun and Moon, Glass Mountain, and the various overlooks along the Cathedral Valley Loop.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure! I hope this guide helps you plan your own trip to Capitol Reef and beyond. Happy travels!