An off-the-beaten-path experience that is rich in everything you imagined, as well as some surprises, when you planned a trip to the Desert Southwest. Your guide will share fascinating geologic insights, local experience, as well as ancient and more recent regional historic information as you are safely led through colorful strata of bentonite, sandstone, and even a petrified forest, unrivaled by the more publicized locations. On your way to the top of Meek's Mesa, you will first work your way through some wonderfully striped, colorful, Jurrasic-era bentonite clays that date to the distant time when the Dinosaurs ruled over the planet. Once your first ascent through the bentonite is complete, you will emerge onto Cook's Mesa. Here you will be treated to some spectacular views of Capitol Reef as well as the surrounding mountains and something quite unexpected to what most visitors imagine the region to be, a petrified forest! These wondrous near perfectly preserved trees, millions of years in the making will amaze you. Some of these ancient giants are over 25' long and too large to even wrap your arms around. Another ascent follows and will deposit you even higher, emerging onto a sandstone wonderland full of fins, rock windows, petrified dunescapes, and ultimately an arch. This is Meek's Mesa. With unrivaled views of the region, you will fill your memory and memory card with the sights of a lifetime! Your experienced guide will then lead you back to the trailhead. An additional 1 hour hike to Lower Spring Canyon Overlook can also be added to your experience. Simply choose from the add-on list “Canyon overview” when you book. This add-on will give you some personal time to have a snack or simply gaze out over one of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth!