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.
What a fantastic trip to Capitol Reef National Park, established in 1937 as a National Monument, becoming a National Park in 1971. We’ll hike together and take a couple road trips, but let’s start with an overview–and what views! So what’s DUE process? Come on along and find out . . .
Death Valley has at least one hidden treasure in plain sight—Mushroom Rock. Along Badwater Road heading to Badwater Basin there are so many wonders to see, especially the gorgeous mountain colors and formations. However, it is hard to find the 7-foot tall Mushroom Rock along Badwater Road, and for good reason.
This is a 1938 picture of Mushroom Rock, originally called Devil’s Throne. We will get to its geology momentarily–and no “oh nos” in the audience please. 😉
Today the rock’s strange shape is not only thanks to million of years of windblown sand and salt, but also two-legged creatures’ abuse. The formation was heavily damaged by visitors climbing on it, carving and defacing it, breaking off small chunks as souvenirs, and groups posing on it for pictures. Well, the Park Service finally had enough. The exact date is hard to find, but the large parking area along the road was done away with, there are no signs for Mushroom Rock, and it no longer appears on any park maps or in any brochures. Although only about 150 feet off Badwater Road, it is tough to see as driving along. It sure blends into the background! Thanks to the discerning eye of Susan.
So its geology–stay with me. I am no expert by any stretch of the imagination, but a good place to start is easy. There are three types of rock. Yup, only three:
Igneous–formed from melted rock deep inside the Earth.
Sedimentary–formed from layers of sand, silt, dead plants, and animal skeletons.
Metamorphic–formed from other rocks that are changed by heat and pressure underground.
Thanks to American Museum of Natural History–Ology Home. Take a look! Never too proud to explore simple sites designed for kids. Need simple as a jumping-off place.
Still with me?
Mushroom Rock is an Igneous rock, a type of basalt. Now that wasn’t so painful, was it? 😂
Until next time my friend . . .
