Capitol Reef National Park Utah

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah's "hidden gem" among the Mighty Five, protects the 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, a geologic wrinkle featuring stunning cliffs, canyons, arches, and technicolor bentonite hills, offering a blend of geology, history (Fremont petroglyphs, Mormon pioneer orchards in Fruita), and solitude with dark skies. Visitors explore via scenic drives, challenging hikes (Cassidy Arch, Hickman Bridge), and rugged 4x4 routes, discovering diverse landscapes from river-fed green valleys to remote monoliths, making it a surprisingly complete national park experience. h!