Category: Utah

Hickman Bridge Trail in Capitol Reef

Posted on by Joy

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.

So much more to see . . .

Capitol Reef National Park–DUE Process

Posted on by Joy

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 . . .

Read and see more . . .

Kolob Canyons, Zion’s Northwest Corner

Posted on by Joy
Thanks to NPS/Daren Reehl for this picture

We visited Kolob Canyons, the far northwest corner of Zion National Park, in April 2017. We had warm temperatures, lots of flowers, lovely bright green Gambel oaks and evergreens. Now, six years later, it is a very different early spring due to very different weather issues. Strong storms raging from the Pacific Ocean across California and hitting the Western states as well as moving across the country. Feet of snow where they usually get none, 30 and 40 degree temps when it should be in the 60s/low 70s, cloudy after cloudy day. Wow! It could be some time before the warm spring sunshine we love prevails. Regardless, snow on enormous red rocks is worth another visit. We are high on the western edge of the Colorado Plateau and taking a 5-mile drive to views that will take your breath away!

Come on along!