The heart of Cathedral Valley is one of the most remote and rugged corners of Capitol Reef National Park. Summer thunderstorms can turn the roads into muddy, washed-out obstacles that even the best high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles may not conquer. There’s usually no cell service, so if something goes wrong, help isn't available.
Add blistering heat, relentless sun, swarms of biting flies, snakes, scorpions, and utter isolation, and you have to be either a little crazy - or completely in love with this place - to visit in summer.
Fortunately, I fall into the second category. It may just be my favorite place on Earth.
Pack plenty of insect repellent, long sleeves and pants, a wide-brimmed hat, cooling bandanas, personal misters, tons of food and water, a first aid kit, vehicle repair gear, reliable camping equipment, several days to explore, and - most importantly - a camera, and you'll likely have the entire place to yourself.
And somehow, despite all the challenges, it never disappoints. It's pure desert, in its finest form.
Life is short. Don't miss the magic.
Comments
Post a Comment