Hickman Natural Bridge. A natural bridge spans a water course, an arch does not...-->

Capitol Reef consists of a geological formation called the waterpocket, a fold in the earth that marks a climatological dividing line between the well-watered valleys to the west of it, and the barren desert to the east. Driving across it marks a sudden and stark transformation--running water and orchards in the park and then the surface of the moon all the way to the Green river.

In and around Torrey you have the remarkable juxtaposition of massive sandstone monoliths and green fields were cows and horses graze. Very cool looking.

<--While gassing up, we happened on a classic British Iron rendezvous--lots of wonderfully restored post-war motorcycles and their lovers...

Great biking area (no biking in the park except on paved surfaces) with fishing, abundant wildlife (the deer were everywhere) and spectacular scenery along countless walking and four-wheel drive trails. Two of the best features though are subtle but impressive--total, absolute silence and a starry night of incredible darkness.

Native American graffitti is celebrated as a cultural artifact of immense anthropological value. If you do it, its a $250.00 fine...-->

The silence in incredible--no insects, traffic noises, air conditioner hum--nothing. I really wonder how many people have actually experienced total silence like this..

<--Low population counties have to conserve resources. Well at least he's not an illegal immigrant.

Fantastic place. If you go, its about 3-1/2 hours drive from Salt Lake City. I highly recommend the very reasonably priced Pine Shadow cabins in Teasdale, right outside of Torrey and just of the Great Western trail that extends from Canada through to Mexico. The cabins are spacious, with good beds, a small kitchenette, full bath and television with a video library. Debbie and Steve are very conscientious hosts and they keep the place immaculate. Do your shopping in Richfield before you get there, because the nearest grocery store is in Loa, about 20 miles away. There are a number of diner, hamburger joint places in the area, with one high end restaurant called Cafe Diablo just as you get into Torrey from the south. I can't recommend it for the prices they are charging--stay away from the rattlesnake cakes, which don't appear to have any discernible rattlesnake meat in them and seemed to be little more than corn cakes with too much chili powder.