Between days of riding off road we take day trips to National Parks. Today we decided to go to Capitol Reef National Park. This park is preserved not only for its natural beauty but for the importance it was to the Mormans that settled the area. We drive through many small towns along the highway. Most have a digital speed limit reader. The town of Loa didn't. They had this dummy sitting in a cop car with the grass growing around it recently mowed. Yes, it was a dummy with a mustache.
The old house and barn now sell the best pies (personal size) and cinnamon rolls around. If you go visit buy one of each kind. You will thank me. It's worth the drive just for the pie! There are lovely picnic areas to enjoy one first if you don't believe me.
This valley was one of the very first highways through Utah. During flash flood it was extremely dangerous. I am always amazed that horse and buggies traveled these roads.
Capitol Reef resembles underwater coral reefs
The settlers farmed the area with orchards of apples, pears, and apricots. You can pick as much fruit as you want. You can eat on premises for free or take with you for $1 a pound.
Apricots were in season so we ate some and brought some home too. They were delicious.
One last ride before we part ways with Steve and Becky. The guys are planning our route
We were riding along 11,000 foot peaks. The roads were narrow, dusty switchbacks. It was Fourth of July weekend and there was activity on the trails we'd previous had all to ourselves. The views are breathtaking.
We've moved on to Colorado! I've never been to CO and am so excited. Our friend Gene from Grand Junction stopped by for a beer and a visit.
We stayed in Fruita, CO just 19 miles from Utah. We drove to Colorado National Monument the afternoon we arrived. It's a 22 mile loop drive with beautiful overlooks.
It's still pretty warm out and I'm looking forward to getting to the mountains. Before we head south though, we're going to drive back into Utah for one last look.
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