After our time in Capitol Reef National Park, we discovered the perfect mix of wild beauty, small-town charm, and city highlights before heading north to welcome our daughter Lydia to the adventure.

BLM Camping Beneath the Stars

We chose to stay on nearby BLM land instead of the park campground, and it turned out to be the best decision. Wide-open skies, quiet solitude, and a blanket of stars made for unforgettable nights. It felt like we had our own private slice of Utah’s red-rock country, just minutes from the park entrance.

Hiking the Hickman Bridge Trail

Capitol Reef has plenty of incredible trails, but Hickman Bridge quickly became a favorite. The short hike packs in striking views of cliffs and canyons before opening up to the natural arch. Standing under Hickman Bridge, framed by desert blue sky, was one of those “wow” moments that makes you pause and take it all in.

Sweet Stop at Gifford Homestead

No trip to Capitol Reef is complete without stopping at Gifford Homestead for a slice of their famous pie. We sat outside the historic farmhouse, savoring each bite while surrounded by fruit orchards and sandstone cliffs. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.

Onward to Salt Lake City

From red-rock country, we headed north to Salt Lake City. Trading sandstone cliffs for city streets was a big shift, but we loved the contrast.

We spent an afternoon exploring Temple Square, where the gardens and historic buildings gave us a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. A highlight was sitting in the Conference Center for the daily organ recital. The sound filled the enormous space in a way that gave us chills — a truly memorable experience.

Family Reunion at the Airport

The best part of the stop in Salt Lake City, though, was meeting our daughter Lydia at the airport. She joined us to continue our road trip, with Arches National Park up next on the itinerary. With our family adventure now complete, we were excited to hit the road again, ready for the next round of red rocks and trails.