Bob & Cindy's 2014 Travel Web Site
Location Links
Capitol Reef N.P. & Bryce Canyon N.P.
We had been to both of these locations also, but wanted to do some additional hiking in Capitol Reef and hike a trail in Bryce that
has been one of our favorites. Capitol Reef is another out of the way spot known for it's unique geology (the Waterpocket Fold).
It's in an area that was originally settled by the Morman's. It's very dry but Fremont River does provide water (it's
a very small river). The campground is in a secluded valley that is still an orchard for apple trees, peach trees, and apricot
trees. Very rough desert all around. The geology prevented settlers from going east/west for a long time.
This is a view of the campground and orchards. The apples were ripe and all you had to do was grab and eat.
The valley and old barns from the late 1800's. Kind of like an oasis in the desert.
On our hike above the valley. Up a canyon to the top of a mesa with wonderful views all around.
Love this part of our country. Next time we'll bring a blanket and a bottle of wine. It was actually pretty cold by this
time of the day.
Late one day we went up to an overlook for some sunset pictures. Note the photographer on the top of the rock taking pictures
with a tripod.
Bryce Canyon from the rim. We're here to hike below the rim. The weather has turned cold and lows are in the mid 20's,
highs in the 40's and it's windy. Forecast for tomorrow is better with 50's, we'll be down in this jumble of
rocks!
It's about an 800 foot elevation change going down from the rim with switchbacks. We're doing a loop trail so will come up a
similar but steeper trail to get out.
Once down in the spires and hoodoos, there is kind of this "other world" feeling. Best thing is we're somewhat out of the wind.
Happy to be back at Bryce. Cindy doing well with drop offs and climbing. It's up and over a lot of ridges.
Wonderful colors throughout, very little "tourist traffic" below the rim. Not the case on the rim, busloads of tourists.
We originally thought we might go over to Zion but began to run out of time so the plan is to head on down toward Sedona, stopping in
Flagstaff to do a small restock and get the oil changed in the motorhome. Click on Sedona link at top of page.