Among the parched desert landscape of Utah lies a paradise of thriving orchards in Capitol Reef National Park that first took root in the late 1800s. A tiny settlement of pioneers in Fruita, Utah, began this fruit haven, and more than 130 years later, visitors have the opportunity to roam the orchards and pick the🍎of their eye!
It’s easy to think of Utah as a parched desert landscape with dry sand and crumbling sandstone cliffs, and to a degree, you wouldn’t be wrong. Along with a handful of other parks scattered across the state, Capitol Reef National Park preserves stark yet beautiful landscapes that typify the arid southwestern desert. But Capitol Reef has another, greener side: thriving fruit orchards that have survived more than 130 years in this harsh place. Peruse through the fruit-picker’s paradise here. 🍎
#tbt to dark desert night skies
#capitolreefnationalpark #utah #cathedralvalley #camping #findyourpark (at Capitol Reef National Park)
After the storm. Capitol Reef National Park. Utah.
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges. Pictured here are cottonwood trees in front of the Castle in Capitol Reef. Enjoy the fall colors while they last! Photo by Glenn Nagel (www.sharetheexperience.org)
Gained National Park Status: December 18, 1971
Location: Utah
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Painting 36/59
Posted on 09/03/2015 to: Head Ranger, HC 70, Box 15 Torrey, UT 84775-9602
Bryce Canyon & Capitol Reef were both great! Spending my last days of the trip in Zion. It’s been such an awesome time. #geology #BryceCanyonNationalPark #CapitolReefNationalPark #FindYourPark #Geol29
Did you make any national park-related resolutions at the beginning of 2014? Duston Baugh promised: “While sitting there enjoying the view I vowed to visit every national park and monument in the state before the year ended.“
Share your incredible national park experiences with us here and visit www.sharetheexperience.org to submit your photos for a chance to win!
[Photo: Duston Baugh at Capitol Reef National Park (http://prks.org/H9nNIy) via Share the Experience 2014 photo contest]