During our second full day at Capitol Reef National Park, the group divided into two. One group headed out for a long, more strenuous hike. The rest of us set out to check out the non-hiking part of the park. We stopped at the Gifford Farmhouse and the blacksmith shop. At some point we also heard a ranger talk. That was fun since the ranger was born in Shaker Heights, Ohio.
We visited the visitor center and watched the film about the park. Our main purpose at the center was to find out about U-Pick fruit. Fruita, Utah is known for historic orchards that are located within the national park.
We got directions and headed to the orchards. We were met by classic U-Pick signs. We were also met with the most beautiful backdrop for any picking that I have ever done. The photo on the right is an apple orchard.
Any fruit consumed while in the orchard is free. Any fruit picked to take with you is $1.00 a pound. Everything is done on the honor system. There is a box with bags, a scale and a money drop at each orchard. We heard that the peaches are a bit more protected when they are in their peak, but we weren’t there during that time.
The apples were most delicious.
After the apples, we headed to find pears. This orchard also had a few peach trees. We may have picked a few of them as well.
After a wonderful experience picking, we headed back to the field station where some sort of cobbler making was on the menu for dessert.
We had a great time exploring the park and the dessert turned out great. The rest of the group had a great hike and everyone was happy with the day.