This beautiful national park is one of the best kept secrets in that it offers some of the most dramatic terrain on earth. The rock formations, gardens of the Gods, domes, bluffs, ripples of wind-polished stone and the amazing water pocket fold offer hiking opportunities that are unlimited. There are rugged mountains and red desert vistas for the eye to behold. Nearby is Boulder Mountain, the highest timbered plateau in North America. The geology, ecology, archeology and human history of this enchanting area offer a week that is unrivaled. Lodging is in a nearby village with a homey atmosphere, good food and friendly people. Classes and meals will take place on-site or in the field.

The Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as a monocline, extends from nearby Thousand Lakes Mountain to the Colorado River (now Lake Powell). Capitol Reef National Park was established to protect this grand and colorful geologic feature, as well as the unique natural and cultural history found in the area.

The Waterpocket Fold defines Capitol Reef National Park. A nearly 100-mile long warp in the Earth's crust, the Waterpocket Fold is a classic monocline: a regional fold with one very steep side in an area of otherwise nearly horizontal layers. A monocline is a "step-up" in the rock layers.