The Cathedral Valley Scenic Backway exhibits striking views of the
Mussentuchit badlands, and on the NPS lands the Temple of the Moon and Sun
formations are accessible. The road is a single-lane road with a dirt base.
High clearance vehicles are recommended. Developed facilities are few in this
area. NPS does have a backcountry campground with a vault toilet. There are no
facilities on BLM administered land.

The Cathedral Valley Scenic Backway exhibits striking views of the Mussentuchit badlands, and on the NPS lands the Temple of the Moon and Sun formations are accessible. The road is a single-lane road with a dirt base. High clearance vehicles are recommended. Developed facilities are few in this area. NPS does have a backcountry campground with a vault toilet. There are no facilities on BLM administered land.

Bird's eye view of the park

Cathedral Valley Scenic Backway

One of the more unique views in all of Utah is found by hiking up and onto
South Caineville Mesa. This is a somewhat strenuous hike and exposes hikers to
some very steep sidehills. The views are worth it. The eroding mountains and
mesa's have cut ravines that fan out dramatically at the base. The trail is
about two and a half miles long to the top of the Mesa where there is a
register box to sign in. Some might be satisfied with reaching the top, but
while you are there, it'd be worth the time to walk south across the Mesa to
see the old rock cabin that was built by some of the earliest ranchers.

One of the more unique views in all of Utah is found by hiking up and onto South Caineville Mesa. This is a somewhat strenuous hike and exposes hikers to some very steep sidehills. The views are worth it. The eroding mountains and mesa's have cut ravines that fan out dramatically at the base. The trail is about two and a half miles long to the top of the Mesa where there is a register box to sign in. Some might be satisfied with reaching the top, but while you are there, it'd be worth the time to walk south across the Mesa to see the old rock cabin that was built by some of the earliest ranchers.

South Caineville Mesa Trail

The trail ascends over 1300 feet to the top of the mesa. Along the way it runs
along the spines of the Mancos badlands up into the Ferron sandstone cap on
the mesa itself. The trail is marked by cairns. The hike takes about 1 hour to
1 1/2 hours each way and is about 2 miles long. Near the top of the trail
there are several names scratched in the rock from early explorers and
ranchers. Once at the top, there is a register box to sign in. Views from the
top of the mesa are unparalleled. A second trail to the top of North
Caineville Mesa starts along State Route 24 near the "old cement truck" in
Caineville. There are no developed facilities in this area.

The trail ascends over 1300 feet to the top of the mesa. Along the way it runs along the spines of the Mancos badlands up into the Ferron sandstone cap on the mesa itself. The trail is marked by cairns. The hike takes about 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours each way and is about 2 miles long. Near the top of the trail there are several names scratched in the rock from early explorers and ranchers. Once at the top, there is a register box to sign in. Views from the top of the mesa are unparalleled. A second trail to the top of North Caineville Mesa starts along State Route 24 near the "old cement truck" in Caineville. There are no developed facilities in this area.

North Caineville Mesa Trail

OHV users travel from far and wide to enjoy the mancos-shale badlands of
Factory Butte. These scenic badlands provide OHV users an unparalleled riding
experience. Factory Butte is a popular recreation site for everything from OHV
jumping and riding to motorcycling and passenger car touring.

Although Factory Butte is famous for its OHV areas, few realize that the area
is also a popular site to view wildflowers in the spring when Factory Butte is
in full bloom. Tourists stop in at Factory Butte to photograph fields of
desert flowers and blooming cacti. These blooming fields provide a stunning
foreground for the North Caineville Mesa and Factory Butte formations.

There is a restroom and interpretive kiosks at Factory Butte.

OHV users travel from far and wide to enjoy the mancos-shale badlands of Factory Butte. These scenic badlands provide OHV users an unparalleled riding experience. Factory Butte is a popular recreation site for everything from OHV jumping and riding to motorcycling and passenger car touring. </p>Although Factory Butte is famous for its OHV areas, few realize that the area is also a popular site to view wildflowers in the spring when Factory Butte is in full bloom. Tourists stop in at Factory Butte to photograph fields of desert flowers and blooming cacti. These blooming fields provide a stunning foreground for the North Caineville Mesa and Factory Butte formations. </p>There is a restroom and interpretive kiosks at Factory Butte.

Factory Butte Recreation Area

Burro Wash is one of the hidden canyons that emerge from the east side of the
Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National Park. Although just a flat, sandy
streamway by the time it crosses the Notom-Bullfrog road - the one access
route into this area - not far upstream the wash begins to cut onto the strata
and domes of the fold and has several extended narrow sections, moderately
difficult to explore, with dark passages, frequent pools, dryfalls and
chokestones. There are also more open sections, with fine views of the massive
Navajo sandstone rocks at the center of Capitol Reef.

Burro Wash is one of the hidden canyons that emerge from the east side of the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National Park. Although just a flat, sandy streamway by the time it crosses the Notom-Bullfrog road - the one access route into this area - not far upstream the wash begins to cut onto the strata and domes of the fold and has several extended narrow sections, moderately difficult to explore, with dark passages, frequent pools, dryfalls and chokestones. There are also more open sections, with fine views of the massive Navajo sandstone rocks at the center of Capitol Reef.

Burro Wash

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 in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth)
extending almost 100 miles.

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 in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles.

## Overview

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 in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth)
extending almost 100 miles (160 km).  
  
  
The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and
is often described as an oasis within the desert. The Group Campsite is near
Loop C of the Fruita Campground. It is a semi-shaded, grassy campsite and is
located in the Fruita Historic District of the park.

## Recreation

Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the
Goosenecks Trail. Visitors looking for longer trails can visit our Trail Guide
and perhaps explore Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch.  
  
  
  
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In
addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and
geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion
of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through
parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the
Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash
and Capitol Gorge.  
  
  
  
Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs,
which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star
gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to
experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational
programs.  
  
  
  
Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in
season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry,
apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.  
  
  
  
Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and
museum.

## Facilities

Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the
Goosenecks Trail. Visitors looking for longer trails can visit our Trail Guide
and perhaps explore Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch.  
  
  
  
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In
addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and
geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion
of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through
parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the
Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash
and Capitol Gorge.  
  
  
  
Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs,
which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star
gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to
experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational
programs.  
  
  
  
Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in
season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry,
apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.  
  
  
  
Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and
museum.

## Natural Features

At Fruita Group site, large deciduous trees provide a shaded setting among
beautiful and striking red rock cliffs. The group site sits adjacent to the
Fremont River at approximately 5,500 feet (1676 m) elevation and is surrounded
by unique historic orchards.  
  
  
Nearby, the Waterpocket Fold defines Capitol Reef National Park. The varied
topography, geology, elevations, and precipitation patterns along the fold
have resulted in a diversity of microhabitats and niches for plant species to
inhabit. Seventeen geologic formations are exposed within the Waterpocket
Fold, each with unique combinations of minerals, soil types, aspect and slope.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.

## Nearby Attractions

The group site is a short walk from the main campground, amphitheater, picnic
areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>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 in the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/nature/geology.htm" rel="nofollow">Waterpocket Fold,</a>  a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles (160 km).<br><br><br>The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and is often described as an oasis within the desert. The Group Campsite is near Loop C of the Fruita Campground. It is a semi-shaded, grassy campsite and is located in the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/fruita.htm" rel="nofollow">Fruita Historic District</a>  of the park.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail.  Visitors looking for longer trails can visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/trailguide.htm" rel="nofollow">Trail Guide</a> and perhaps explore Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch.<br><br><br><br>Enjoy the geology and view the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/fremont-culture-petroglyphs.htm" rel="nofollow">Fremont Culture Petroglyphs</a>  along Hwy 24. In addition, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenicdrive.htm" rel="nofollow">Scenic Drive</a> will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.<br><br><br><br>Check at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/visitorcenter.htm" rel="nofollow">Visitor Center</a>  for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. <br><br><br><br>Wander through the historic Fruita <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/orchards.htm" rel="nofollow">Orchards</a>  and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.<br><br><br><br>Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/giffordhomestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Gifford Homestead</a>  store and museum.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail.  Visitors looking for longer trails can visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/trailguide.htm" rel="nofollow">Trail Guide</a> and perhaps explore Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch.<br><br><br><br>Enjoy the geology and view the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/fremont-culture-petroglyphs.htm" rel="nofollow">Fremont Culture Petroglyphs</a>  along Hwy 24. In addition, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenicdrive.htm" rel="nofollow">Scenic Drive</a> will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.<br><br><br><br>Check at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/visitorcenter.htm" rel="nofollow">Visitor Center</a>  for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. <br><br><br><br>Wander through the historic Fruita <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/orchards.htm" rel="nofollow">Orchards</a>  and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.<br><br><br><br>Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/giffordhomestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Gifford Homestead</a>  store and museum.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>At Fruita Group site, large deciduous trees provide a shaded setting among beautiful and striking red rock cliffs.  The group site sits adjacent to the Fremont River at approximately 5,500 feet (1676 m) elevation and is surrounded by unique historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/orchards.htm" rel="nofollow">orchards. </a> <br><br><br>Nearby, the Waterpocket Fold defines Capitol Reef National Park.  The varied topography, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/nature/geology.htm" rel="nofollow">geology,</a>  elevations, and precipitation patterns along the fold have resulted in a diversity of microhabitats and niches for plant species to inhabit. Seventeen geologic formations are exposed within the Waterpocket Fold, each with unique combinations of minerals, soil types, aspect and slope.</p>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The group site is a short walk from the main campground, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.

Capitol Reef charges an entrance fee separate from camping fees. You may pay
the fee upon arrival at the entrance station or purchase in advance. The park
also honors Federal interagency passes (e.g., annual, senior, access, 4th
grade, Golden Age pass etc.). For more information visit the park's Fees &
Passes web page.

Capitol Reef NP Group Campsite

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef NP Group Campground

## Overview

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 in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth)
extending almost 100 miles (160 km). The Fruita Campground has 71 sites. 65
sites are reservable **year round- there are no longer first come, first serve
sites any time of year**. Sites 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are used as administrative
sites. Sites 14, 24, and 63 are accessible sites with electrical hookups.
While Loop C is closed in the winter season, generators are allowed in Loops A
& B during generator hours.**The rest of the year, generators are only allowed
in Loop C.**

## Recreation

Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the
Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and
Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.  
  
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In
addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and
geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion
of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through
parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the
Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash
and Capitol Gorge.

Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs,
which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star
gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to
experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational
programs.

Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in
season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry,
apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.

Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and
museum.

## Facilities

Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the
Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and
Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.  
  
Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In
addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and
geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion
of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through
parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the
Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash
and Capitol Gorge.

Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs,
which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star
gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to
experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational
programs.

Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in
season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry,
apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.

Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and
museum.

## Natural Features

The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and
is often described as an oasis within the desert. Fruita Campground is a semi-
shaded, grassy campground and is located in the Fruita Historic District of
the park.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.

## Nearby Attractions

The Fruita campground is adjacent to the Fremont River and is a short walk
from the group site, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic
Gifford house and orchards.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>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 in the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/nature/geology.htm" rel="nofollow">Waterpocket Fold,</a>  a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles (160 km).  The Fruita Campground has 71 sites.  65 sites are reservable <strong>year round- there are no longer first come, first serve sites any time of year</strong>.  Sites 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are used as administrative sites. Sites 14, 24, and 63 are accessible sites with electrical hookups. While Loop C is closed in the winter season, generators are allowed in Loops A & B during generator hours.<strong> The rest of the year, generators are only allowed in Loop C.</strong> </p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our<a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/trailguide.htm" rel="nofollow"> Trail Guide</a>  to explore your options.<br><br>Enjoy the geology and view the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/fremont-culture-petroglyphs.htm" rel="nofollow">Fremont Culture Petroglyphs</a>  along Hwy 24. In addition, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenicdrive.htm" rel="nofollow">Scenic Drive</a>  will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.</p>

<p>Check at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/visitorcenter.htm" rel="nofollow">Visitor Center</a>  for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. </p>

<p>Wander through the historic Fruita<a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/orchards.htm" rel="nofollow"> Orchards</a>  and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.</p>

<p>Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/giffordhomestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Gifford Homestead</a>  store and museum.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our<a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/trailguide.htm" rel="nofollow"> Trail Guide</a>  to explore your options.<br><br>Enjoy the geology and view the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/fremont-culture-petroglyphs.htm" rel="nofollow">Fremont Culture Petroglyphs</a>  along Hwy 24. In addition, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenicdrive.htm" rel="nofollow">Scenic Drive</a>  will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.</p>

<p>Check at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/visitorcenter.htm" rel="nofollow">Visitor Center</a>  for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. </p>

<p>Wander through the historic Fruita<a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/orchards.htm" rel="nofollow"> Orchards</a>  and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut.</p>

<p>Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/care/learn/historyculture/giffordhomestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Gifford Homestead</a>  store and museum.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and is often described as an oasis within the desert.  Fruita Campground is a semi-shaded, grassy campground and is located in the Fruita Historic District of the park.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The Fruita campground is adjacent to the Fremont River and is a short walk from the group site, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.

Capitol Reef charges an entrance fee separate from camping fees. You may pay
the fee upon arrival at the entrance station or purchase in advance.  The park
also honors Federal interagency passes (e.g., annual, senior, access, 4th
grade, Golden Age pass etc.). For more information visit the park's Fees &
Passes web page.

Autumn colors contrast with red rock formations

Fruita Campground

Moonrise over Capital Reef.  Photo taken from Fruita Campground

FRUITA CAMPGROUND

Starry Night at Gifford Homestead Near Fruita Campground

Loop C

Loop B

Loop A

View from Rim Overlook a short hike from Fruita Campground

Campground Kiosk

Peach Tree in bloom near Fruita Campground

The Blue Hills, in the northern and western portion of the WSA, are low mesas
and barren badlands carved by erosion from blue-gray marine shales. The Mt.
Ellen portion of the WSA consists of steep slopes and rounded peaks, including
Mt. Ellen, with large basins and wide canyons. Mt. Ellen is part of the Henry
Mountains, well-known in American geology for classical studies of intrusive
mountain structures, upturned sedimentary rocks, and stream gradients. Mt.
Ellen is the largest structural dome in the Henry Mountains, with a diameter
of 12 to 15 miles. Predominant vegetation at the lower elevations is pinyon-
juniper and saltbrush. Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and alpine fir grow at the
higher elevations.

The Blue Hills, in the northern and western portion of the WSA, are low mesas and barren badlands carved by erosion from blue-gray marine shales. The Mt. Ellen portion of the WSA consists of steep slopes and rounded peaks, including Mt. Ellen, with large basins and wide canyons. Mt. Ellen is part of the Henry Mountains, well-known in American geology for classical studies of intrusive mountain structures, upturned sedimentary rocks, and stream gradients. Mt. Ellen is the largest structural dome in the Henry Mountains, with a diameter of 12 to 15 miles. Predominant vegetation at the lower elevations is pinyon-juniper and saltbrush. Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and alpine fir grow at the higher elevations.

Mt. Ellen-Blue Hills

The first few miles of the east end side of Sheets Gulch is along a sandy wash
bottom surrounded by low hills before coming up to the east side of the
Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National park. As with the other canyons in
the area, Sheets Gulch is extraordinary in scenery and challenge. There are no
devleoped facilities along the Notom Road, including at the Sheets Gulch
Trailhead.

The first few miles of the east end side of Sheets Gulch is along a sandy wash bottom surrounded by low hills before coming up to the east side of the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National park. As with the other canyons in the area, Sheets Gulch is extraordinary in scenery and challenge. There are no devleoped facilities along the Notom Road, including at the Sheets Gulch Trailhead.

Sheets Gulch

Sevier Canyon, also known as Marysvale Canyon, lies along the Paiute and
Sevier County lines. Utah State Highway 89 runs directly down its course along
the west side, with the Sevier River in its bottom. The river attracts
rafters, tubers, fishermen, campers, and has a developed and popular bike path
running along the East side of the river to the resort of Big Rock Cany
Mountain. Access to the trail can be found at the mouth of the canyon, Joseph,
Elsinore, and Central. Access is planned to be available through the town of
Richfield as the trail continues to be developed. The scenic views in Sevier
Canyon are excellent.

Sevier Canyon, also known as Marysvale Canyon, lies along the Paiute and Sevier County lines. Utah State Highway 89 runs directly down its course along the west side, with the Sevier River in its bottom. The river attracts rafters, tubers, fishermen, campers, and has a developed and popular bike path running along the East side of the river to the resort of Big Rock Cany Mountain. Access to the trail can be found at the mouth of the canyon, Joseph, Elsinore, and Central. Access is planned to be available through the town of Richfield as the trail continues to be developed. The scenic views in Sevier Canyon are excellent.

Sevier River

The WSA is on a broad plateau that slopes gently north-northeast, and is
intricately dissected by deep, narrow, meandering canyons that drain eastward
into the Fremont River. Narrow, relatively flat-topped ridges separate the
canyons. Vegetation is predominantly pinyon-juniper with associated grasses.
Ecological and botanical features are related to high quality riparian habitat
along Sulfur Creek.

The WSA is on a broad plateau that slopes gently north-northeast, and is intricately dissected by deep, narrow, meandering canyons that drain eastward into the Fremont River. Narrow, relatively flat-topped ridges separate the canyons. Vegetation is predominantly pinyon-juniper with associated grasses. Ecological and botanical features are related to high quality riparian habitat along Sulfur Creek.

Cathedral Valley Scenic Backway

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