Sun Reflecting on the Waterpocket Fold

The Waterpocket Fold is the major geologic feature that defines Capitol Reef National Park. It is a buckle in the earth's surface, almost 100 miles long, running north-south from Thousand Lake Mountain down to Lake Powell. Along The Fold, rocks have been pushed upward and erosion has cut through the layers, creating deep narrow canyons and interesting formations. East-west travel across The Fold is difficult because of the rugged terrain; there are only a few spots where roads have been pushed through. Highway 24 crosses the mid-section of the park and provides access to visitor facilities. It is the only paved road to cross the Waterpocket Fold. The name "Waterpocket Fold" reflects this ongoing erosion of the rock layers. "Waterpockets" are small depressions that form in many of the sandstone layers as they are eroded by water, and are common throughout the fold at Capitol Reef. When Ken stopped to take this shot he remembered he’d never taken his phone off the trunk of the car. AMAZINGLY IT WAS STILL THERE!