Part 5 - Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is named for two features. The Waterpocket Fold is a wrinkle in the earth's crust almost 100 miles long. "From the east, it appears as a formidable barrier to travel, much like a barrier reef in an ocean" (quote from National Park Service brochure). The other feature is a white sandstone dome that resembles the U. S. Capitol Building.
The Castle, at the entrance to Capitol Reef National Park.
Twin Rocks.
The Fluted Wall.
Canyon created by Sulphur Creek, as seen fom Goosenecks Overlook (not to be confused with Goosenecks State Park, in another part of the state entirely).
Rocks balanced by visitors at Sunset Point.
The Gifford House in the Fruita Historic District, originally built in 1908 by polygamist Calvin Pendleton.
Two immense Fremont cottonwood trees near the Gifford House, dating from about the 1880s.
Two entrances to an abandoned uranium mine, on Grand Wash Road in the park.
Signs inside one of the mine entrances, visible through the bars.
Capitol Dome, which gives Capitol Reef part of its name.
Jim's favorite Utah beer.