DAY 39 began confirming that it was indeed a perfect night’s sleep for me. It was a perfect 51 degrees when we woke up at around 7 AM. We packed out our site, making sure the fire was completely out and taking any sign of our presence away. We were off to Cedar Breaks National Monument, just 3 miles or so from our campsite. The drive through was only 7 miles, so we got to see all the vantage points of the amphitheater (the formation that makes up the monument) in no time. We were also the only ones at each stop, which made it feel like we had the place to ourselves.

We were at Bryce Canyon National Park by 11 AM which was good because this park is 18 miles one direction. We made it to the furthest point about an hour and a bit after our arrival to the park, as we checked out the movie in the visitor center and it took over 30 minutes to make the trek. We took our sweet time on the way back taking photos at each stop. Each vantage point showcases different formations. It gets overwhelming at times. If there was time on this whirlwind trip, I would have loved to hike the lower trail. That wasn’t an option though.

We managed to leave the park with just enough time to make it to our final destination of the day, Capitol Reef National Park. Thankfully it was only 10 miles each direction and we had decided to make it a quick drive through. We managed to get some great pictures while the sun was still out, make it to the furthest point (gravel road for 2.25 miles) and also hit a small side road (1.25 miles of gravel) all before it got too dark to appreciate. When we got back to the picnic area, we pulled out the propane grill and made ourselves a delicious meal.

After taking advantage of the park being designated an International Dark Skies Park, we headed to the Pilot gas station, the place we would sleep for the night. I didn’t have high hopes for this place, but we shall see what happens, tomorrow.