The Way Is Shut

Deonne Kahler

Aug 17, 2016

2 min read

Two things you can never have too many of: Lord of the Rings references, and red rock.

Utah has four incredible National Parks, all of which I saw on this last Scamp. We’ve already talked about Zion National Park, and today I’ll share some images from two of the others, plus two bonus spots.

First up, Capitol Reef National Park. This is probably the least known of the four, but well worth a visit for fun hikes, a fantastic little bakery (Capitol Reef is home to a bunch of fruit orchards), and plenty of slot canyons that get smaller and smaller, like something out of Alice in Wonderland.

Slot canyon, Capitol Reef National Park, Utah — Not for the claustrophobic. Which means me, sort of.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah — On the trail.

Also in the neighborhood is Moab, which I’ll share photos of next time, but nearby is the little town of Monticello.

Aunt Jemima, Monticello, Utah — Locals call this Aunt Jemima.

There’s also Natural Bridges National Monument. It was hot and I didn’t want to leave Sam in the car, so I didn’t hike down to see the bridges close up, but you should. (That’s an order.)

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah — From the canyon rim.

Then there’s my favorite, Bryce Canyon. I’ve been there a few times now, and aside from the stunning, strange landscape, it’s a smallish park, meaning you can hike the whole thing in a day. My favorite is the 8-mile Fairyland Loop trail.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah — Hoodoos!

Next up: Moab and Canyonlands National Park.

If you liked this post, feel free to share it with the buttons below!

Save

The Way Is Shut

Recent Posts

Comments