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Capitol Reef NP, Utah
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The Waterpocket Fold is a nearly 100-mile long warp in the Earth's crust, creating a stunning landscape of cliffs, canyons, and domes.
The park contains historic orchards planted by Mormon settlers in the late 1800s, and visitors can still pick fruit from them seasonally.
The 'Reef' part of the name refers to the rocky barrier that early travelers found difficult to cross, similar to a coral reef in the ocean.
The park features petroglyphs created by the Fremont culture over a thousand years ago, offering a glimpse into their life and beliefs.
Millions of years ago, the area was covered by a shallow sea, which contributed to the sedimentary rock layers visible today.
The name 'Capitol' comes from the white domes of Navajo Sandstone that resemble the U.S. Capitol building.
The park is home to over 200 species of birds, as well as mammals like mule deer and desert bighorn sheep.
Capitol Reef is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
