The Red Moenkopi Formation and Layered Strata - Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Capitol Reef National Park, located in south-central Utah, is a hidden gem known for its stunning geological formations and rich history. The park is named after its distinctive white sandstone domes, which resemble the Capitol building, and the rugged "reef," a long, narrow ridge that once posed a significant barrier to early travelers. Capitol Reef is part of the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth's crust formed over 65 million years ago, creating a striking landscape of cliffs, canyons, domes, and natural bridges. In addition to its geological wonders, the park also preserves evidence of human history, from ancient petroglyphs left by the Fremont culture to historic orchards planted by Mormon pioneers in the late 1800s. Capitol Reef offers a peaceful and less crowded alternative to some of Utah’s other national parks, with opportunities for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring the diverse desert environment.
Size: 5616px × 3744px
Photo credit: © Phil Degginger / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: american, area, arid, attractions, canyonlands, canyons, capitol, chinle, clay, desert, district, environment, eroded, eroding, erosion, features, fold, formation, formations, fruita, geological, geology, hiking, historic, history, landmarks, landscape, moenkopi, monuments, national, natural, np, park, patterns, reef, rock, sandstone, scenic, sedimentary, trails, ut, utah, vistas, waterpocket, west, wilderness, wingate
