Breakfast with my German neighbors, then hide in the tent for an hour while the rain beats down.... Then a ride along the Noton Rd.

Finally, the sun came out and I headed for the backcountry Noton Road - paved for a few miles, then turning to dirt. Panoramic, stark views. A short hike to see a nice set of Anasazi, petroglyphs, then took the 10 mile scenic drive to Capitol Gorge where the Mormons blasted a road through the reef for easier travel. This was the only road through the reef until 1962.

Capitol Reef Scenic Drive - canyon narrows

Time for dinner. Halfway through my prep when the heavens REALLY open up and I scramble for my tent to avoid a good soaking.

30 minutes later the skies clear and I resume dinner, although the occasional cracks of thunder still roll through the canyon.