Finding Nebo at Devil's Kitchen

Mount Nebo Scenic Drive is a wonderful trip through the southern part of the Wasatch Mountain Range, with waterfalls, mountains, valleys, and even a kitchen. It was a beautiful late summer day, just perfect for a drive.

Our first stop was Grotto Falls. When we pulled up the parking lot appeared empty, and we thought we would have nice little hike. After traveling up a small hill and crossing the creek on a footlog, we reached the falls. It was tucked back in an alcove, with the small flow cascading over the ledge above us. The sound of the water lightly splashing in the pool below was very peaceful. It was very picturesque, and Tom did his best not to let the gang of loud and raucous kids ruin the experience.

After the falls, we continued on the loop, stopping at the various overlooks to check the views. Each overlook we encountered presented us with a new look at the surrounding landscape. I really enjoyed the scenery of the valleys that spread out from around these mountain peaks. The highest mountain in the area is Mount Nebo. It stands out in the skyline with its rock face, and we spent some time watching the clouds pass over it and change its look from dark to light.

Along the way we stopped at Devil’s Kitchen. We were anticipating it to be larger, and although it turned out to be a small area, it packed an impressive punch of colors and shapes. The red sandstone of the Devil’s Kitchen is a stark contrast to the evergreen trees and the magestic mountains. It proved to be a great place to eat our lunch and look out over the surrounding mountains and trees.

While it was weeks before peak fall color, the occasional brilliant reds in the maple trees were surprising and gave us a taste of fall.

Today was a sweets day. Tom made brownies while I went for a hike with our friends who are camping next to us. Before the hike we picked apples from the orchard and got some fresh pies from the Gifford House, both in Capital Reef National Park. We tried the peach and mixed berry ones, with both being delicious, but I think I preferred the peach. We still have the apple and the strawberry rhubarb ones to try. The hike and the company were enjoyable, but my knees hurt, hinting that I don’t have my hiking legs yet. I am grateful I feel good enough to still go hiking and climbing these hills. I regret that I don’t always seize the moment and do things like this. That is something I can be better at, along with setting those goals.

Share your comments on Facebook or email us at roadfronts@gmail.com