Archive for March, 2011

Painting Capitol Reef

March 29th, 2011

Nature, Outdoor adventures

If art is the expression of the soul then Southern Utah is the ideal place to come and express yourself. The combination of subject and light makes this area a haven for artists. For those wishing to convey the canyon and desert landscape to canvas, there are endless opportunities in this unspoiled area. There are both organized art excursions, as well as the chance for solitude. A village completely dedicated to the arts was founded in Ivins, Utah to provide a venue for sale and instruction.

Many professional and amateur painters, using almost all mediums, are drawn to Capitol Reef National Park and the surrounding country. The clash of mountain with sky inspires hundreds of works of art every year, in all seasons. Many artists relish the fact that the lighting can be soft and diffused on part of the landscape, but still sharp and focused in other areas. “It makes my work interesting, more exciting, and [the differences in lighting] definitely pushes me to achieve,” remarked one former resident painter. Read More

Exploring Capitol Reef’s Waterpocket Fold

March 26th, 2011

Outdoor adventures

Capitol Reef is one of the best national parks in Utah, but those who come to visit usually stay in the upper region near the main highway. To get a unique perspective of the area, you should head to the lower portion of Capitol Reef. This area is known as the Waterpocket Fold.

Waterpocket Fold is a geological landform that was caused by tectonic plate movement and the erosion of an ancient body of water. Throughout the ages, water and wind have formed canyons and monoliths in the plateau. The Waterpocket Fold stretches over 100 miles, defining Utah’s central desert. Driving along the road that follows the land, you get an overwhelming sense of the vastness of the desert. Read More

Southern Utah’s Narrow Canyons

March 23rd, 2011

Outdoor adventures

Southern Utah has many attractions. The narrow canyons that lace the area are one of the most popular. The movement of water over a long period of time formed these slot canyons, often called “narrows”. The water wears down the sandstone, and this creates a deep, narrow canyon. Today most of the narrows in Southern Utah have no running water, this makes them fun and safe to explore.

The most famous network of narrows is found in Zion National Park. Zion has the largest number of visitors of any park in Utah, and many people come specifically to explore these slot canyons. What is not commonly known, however, is that there are many other narrow canyons across all of Southern Utah. For instance, the majority of canyons in Capitol Reef’s Waterpocket Fold contain narrows. So the question is asked, which narrows are the best to see? That depends on what you want to experience. Read More

Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Moab Road Trip

March 22nd, 2011

Travel

Many people who come to explore Southern Utah have a limited amount of time. They want a mini-vacation, and may consider exploring the national parks, but have no definite itinerary. If you can only get away for a few days, here’s what we recommend to give you a good taste of the southern landscape.

If you live in, or are visiting the Salt Lake area, we suggest you make the longest drive first. That way you will be working your way back to your starting point. Take I-15 going south from Salt Lake. Spend the night in Cedar City or Saint George. Ether city will put you within easy reach of Zion National Park. While there, you can enjoy some of the cities’ attractions. Read More

Southern Utah For the Outdoor Adventurer

March 19th, 2011

Outdoor adventures

In the great Southwest there are endless opportunities for high adventure. Here are some suggestions to experience the best of Southern Utah. These ideas might help you plan a great vacation, or an exciting weekend.

Boating in Lake Powell
Lake Powell is in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area. It stretches over 26,000 square miles, winding through beautiful sandstone monoliths and pinnacles. There are many side canyons that can be explored on personal watercraft. Lake Powell is also one of the best cliff jumping spots in the nation. Read More