From Wind Extremes to Canyons, Mesa's and Meandering Rivers

What can we say about Halls Crossing......except that the wind sucked us in and then blasted us out in a maelstrom of sand, 45 mph wind and a 100 degree temperatures. Our desire for serene canyon kayaking was not to be....at least for now.

As we travelled north the sand cleared from the sky but the wind didn't abate and John said Dude was like a brick wall being blown all over the place with gusts coming from all directions. All the while I didn't know which way to look. On my right was green grass plateaus and on my left were red canyons, mesa's, spires and washes. Then suddenly the terrain looked eerie with imposing grey and gold mesa's and the road was lined with green crops and trees with the Fremont River running alongside...it was really hard to comprehend the changes in landscape in one afternoon.

We arrived late afternoon at Capitol Reef NP and camped in the overflow campground. After a few days of driving it was time to unhitch our bikes and get some exercise. A dirt trail at the end of the scenic road was perfect for riding.....though I nearly fell off a few times taking photos. I think by now John had seen enough rocks (I never seem to tire of them) and he needed more activity so we then walked 2 miles into the slot canyon to see the Petroglyphs and then a 4 mile hike up a 1,000 feet to see the Golden Throne. Clouds had been developing and we assumed it would rain but instead it snowed melting as quickly as it fell. Orchards abound in the Fruita Campground ...so maybe a trip back in autumn in time to pick the fruit. We weren't disappointed in our wildlife sightings either as a herd of deer grazed through the campground and into the orchard. 

Road to Golden Throne



View hiking up to Golden Throne

 

Hiking up to Golden Throne

Golden Throne