Homeward Bound

This summer was so enjoyable living with my friends and having adventures that the time went by quickly.  I discovered an appreciation and love for the environment of the Capitol Reef National Park and surrounding areas. This part of the earth is gorgeous. I hope to continue coming back often. It's now time to say goodbye. Next stop: Home.

Photo: family cross country trip (circa 1977)

Freemont Gorge Overlook Trail

 The path

 Castle Rock in the distance

 View from the top

Crazy rock formation

I ended my summer adventures with a final hike on the Freemont Gorge Overlook Trail. The day couldn't have been more perfect. The weather was cool and overcast which was great because the entire trail was open with no shade. However, I kept looking for lighting in the distance or a low rumble of thunder. I wouldn't want to be caught in an open field with lightning bolts crashing to the ground. Yikes!
The trail was narrow and lengthy, but no real challenge until the sharp climb to the finishing point. I had a chance to sit on the edge of the gorge while eating snacks and pondering my great summer with friends and nature. I feel truly blessed for these opportunities. I realized why I enjoy this area and these views so much. Coming from the Pacific Northwest in Washington state, the environment is extremely dense. It's rare to stand in one place and be able to see all of your surroundings for miles. I appreciate the differences.

Country Store

 

This little country store was located up and around the corner from where I was staying this summer. I first noticed it last year when I was visiting. I often dream of owning it and making it a working store again, or just living there and making it into a cool modern/vintage home.  This could be the perfect fixer-upper.

Grand Wash Trail and Cassidy Arch

 

The Grand Wash Trail was incredible. I felt like a tiny ant walking through a maze of cliffs. In the first photo above I marked where people were standing just to show the enormity of the red rocks. At the end of the Grand Wash Trail I veered off to hike up to Cassidy Arch. I had hiked it at the beginning of the summer but failed to take any pictures of the arch. On the way to Cassidy Arch I saw Fern's Nipple. Hahaha.  

Cohab Canyon

Cohab Canyon was a fantastic trail. It was simple with lots of interesting views and things to see along the way, such as cactus and odd rock formations.

North and South Rim Park Views

You can detour from Cohab Canyon to the north or south rim overlooking the park. I sat high above the south rim of the park while eating a small lunch. The view was tremendous on both sides.

Goosenecks Overlook and Sunset Point

Two hike's/walks across from the other. Short, easy and worth the view. The Goosenecks looks into Sulphur Creek Canyon. Sunset Point has an amazing panoramic view of cliffs and domes.

Good Boy

This sweet boy has kept watch all summer long. I feel safe at night knowing he's around.