One interesting feature we encountered early in the trip is the Waterpocket Fold which defines Capital Reef NP. Driving across it after reading all about the phenomenon saw a complete change in the colour of the geology, now being dark grey instead of reds and blues. And the fold was very obvious. It was a weird experience and one I am going to read a little more about, but in the meantime, take a look for yourself.
The geography supporting 95 south was fairly uninteresting until we hit Glen Canyon which captures the eastern reaches of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. It was spectacular and great to see the introduction of a large area of water. We visited Natural Bridges NP shortly after and I was mostly interested in the Anasazi ruins visible from high on other side of the river snuggly still in place under the overhanging cliffs, untouched since 1000 AD - wonderful to see.
But nothing prepared us for what lay ahead. I was aware we may encounter a small section of gravel road and the signs heading towards Mexican Hat warned of tight switchbacks. We came upon this amazing section of road with an overlook which laid out in front of us, lands with mesas and buttes and cliffs that went as far as your eye could take you. And directly below us was the Valley of the Gods B & B where we were headed. With fear and trepidation I adhered to the recommended 15 miles per hour and headed down through the corners - it was over before I knew but was seriously in need of a drink to calm my nerves. That was amazing and so glad I went down the hill not up, as the view was something I will never forget.
Valley of the Gods was fantastic. Completely isolated in Utah desert literally at the doors edge - a very pretty stone settlers home with perfectly positioned verandah with lots of comfy chairs where we could sit and enjoy the setting sun with other guests, each with a bottle of red and lots of stories and recommendations to share. We all had some leftovers for tea as the closest restaurant was too far away and way too uninteresting to entice us away from this idyllic setting. The weather was so clear, the stars were huge and the next morning at sunrise, it was as I had dreamed and very hard to put into words. Hosts Gary and Claire cooked a wonderful breakfast and farwelled everyone - I wish I was there for a week - a perfect place to reflect and unwind.
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