This is Strike Valley Overlook. So, Capitol Reef Natl Park is protecting what’s called a monocline. The monocline is called the Waterpocket Fold, and its the largest exposed monocline in all of North America. A monocline is a fold in the earths crust (click on the word monocline for a picture). This isn’t the best view, but I’m standing on the top of the fold looking down onto it. This particular portion of the monocline created a valley, which you’re looking at right now. The crazy this about Strike Valley Overlook is the freakin drive. This was by far the toughest 4WD road I’ve ever encountered and I had to hike the final 1/3rd of the road to get here. However, it was definitely worth it as this view was spectacular (and vast). From here, we actually drove up Strike Valley all the way into the main part of the park. If you look on the top right of the photo, you can see the road.
True dark skies are tough to come by nowadays. Capitol Reef is known for it’s darkness. Thankfully, the moon had yet to rise and I was able to get this shot of the Milky Way. I freaking love shots like this.
On the way into Capitol Reef, we took the scenic route. Burr Trail Road is mostly paved, but the second half is not. It was named after the cattle rancher who owned it. At any rate, the famous part of this road are the switchbacks above. They’re a bit scary, but also beautiful.
Cathedral Valley, Capitol Reef National Park. My favorite part of this leg of the trip. Absolutely beautiful monoliths like this everywhere. It’s far, and a tough drive, which is likely why we were the only ones there. But it added to the adventure. Also, wilderness is always better when you’re by yourself.Peep the van on the bottom for some perspective.
Temple of the Sun, another one of those giant monoliths in Cathedral Valley.
