Last updated: October 10, 2024
Place
Scenic Drive Stop 11
NPS / J. Frank
Quick Facts
Amenities
7 listed
Bicycle - Rack, Parking - Auto, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles
Capitol Gorge Road was originally cleared by pioneer settlers in 1883. It was the only road heading east from Fruita for about 80 years and had to be cleared of heavy debris after every flash flood. Early travelers recorded their passage on the canyon walls, carving names and dates into the cliff face. To protect the historic integrity of the Pioneer Register, further additions are now illegal.
An easy 1-mile trail leads hikers past the Pioneer Register to the Tanks, ephemeral, natural pools teeming with life. Tadpoles, fairy shrimp, and aquatic insects live in these tiny watery worlds. These animals are sensitive to lotion, sunscreen, and bug spray so keep your hands and feet out of the pools. What happens when waterpockets dry up? Fairy shrimp have a method of survival that’s almost magical. They lay incredibly durable eggs that can survive several years of drought until heavy rains return and awaken new life.
Water has left its mark on Capitol Reef, from subtle ripples in the rock to towering sandstone cliffs. It has influenced tree roots and crustacean eggs. It has exposed nineteen sedimentary rock layers that have so much knowledge to impart if we learn to read them. National parks are nature’s libraries and art museums. Absorb the vistas, watch wildlife, read the rocks, and ensure that future generations can too.
An easy 1-mile trail leads hikers past the Pioneer Register to the Tanks, ephemeral, natural pools teeming with life. Tadpoles, fairy shrimp, and aquatic insects live in these tiny watery worlds. These animals are sensitive to lotion, sunscreen, and bug spray so keep your hands and feet out of the pools. What happens when waterpockets dry up? Fairy shrimp have a method of survival that’s almost magical. They lay incredibly durable eggs that can survive several years of drought until heavy rains return and awaken new life.
Water has left its mark on Capitol Reef, from subtle ripples in the rock to towering sandstone cliffs. It has influenced tree roots and crustacean eggs. It has exposed nineteen sedimentary rock layers that have so much knowledge to impart if we learn to read them. National parks are nature’s libraries and art museums. Absorb the vistas, watch wildlife, read the rocks, and ensure that future generations can too.