Mesa Arch at sunrise, one of the most visited and most photographed places in Utah if not the world. Just Google it and you will see beautiful sun stars and landscapes through the 27-foot arch. No worries, we are not going out that early, too much sand in the air from the 24-hours of sandstorms across Utah. No sun stars today, but let’s not miss the arch, up close and personal in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park.
So what to do with your one day in Canyonlands National Park when the entire eastern side of Utah is experiencing sandstorms with sustained winds from 30-60mph? You take pictures anyway and enjoy the day! Maybe protection from breathing in the sand is a much better use for face masks. Never mind. Let’s go my friend–just hold onto your hat.
Along the east side of the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National Park we find slot canyons. Many slot canyons. Some have names, some have established trails, some involve long hikes. Many others are waiting to be discovered. Today we are going to Headquarters Canyon, said to be one of the best slot canyons on the Fold. It is about 35 miles down Notom-Bullfrog Road, but the drive is half the adventure! Let’s go . . .
Here we are at the trailhead for Hickman Bridge at 7am. What a beautiful morning as we head out along the Fremont River which runs through the middle of Capitol Reef National Park. The river allowed settlers to live in Fruita, just down the road, establishing orchards galore. Right now the apricot trees are in bloom. Fruita’s history, originally called Junction, is fascinating. It takes courage to not only live, but raise a family, in such a harsh environment without all our technological advances–like electric and sewers 😉 .
Well here we go! Up 400 feet in just under a mile to see the 133 ft (40 m) long and 125 ft (37 m) high natural bridge.
