If you haven't read reporter Brandon Loomis' report on the unique challenge facing rangers at Capitol Reef National Park — preventing the href="http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/54553698-78/cacti-cactus-capitol-desert.html.csp" target="_blank">theft of rare cacti — do yourself a favor and get educated.
When you're done, think about visiting the park during its anniversary celebration beginning this week. President Franklin Roosevelt made Capitol Reef a national monument 75 years ago Thursday. President Richard Nixon signed the bill elevating it to national park status 34 years later.
As part of the celebration, rangers are leading some guided hikes. Here is a list of the activities.
Thursday
8-11 a.m. » Geoscientist leads geology hike to Hickman Bridge.
8:30-11 a.m. » Visitor center unveils new exhibits; local authors sign books.
9-11 a.m. » Historic schoolhouse opens.
8:45-9:45 p.m. » Superintendent Al Hickman hosts a campground program on the history of national parks and Capitol Reef.
Friday
7-9 a.m. » Bird walk leaves from Inglesby picnic area.
8-11 a.m. » Geoscientist leads geology hike to Hickman Bridge.
8:30-11 a.m. » Fremont River bat research presentation at campground Loop B.
9-11 a.m. » Historic schoolhouse opens.
8:45-9:45 p.m. » Ranger Cindy Micheli hosts a campground program on park’s historic orchards.
Saturday
9 a.m.-4 p.m. » Gifford House hosts cultural demostrations.
9 a.m.-7 p.m. » Local musicians perform.
9-11 a.m. » Historic schoolhouse opens.
4:30-5 p.m. » Gifford House hosts pioneer history discussion.
5:30-7:30 p.m. » Gifford House hosts cowboy cookout and live music for a fee.
7-8:30 p.m. » Gifford House hosts special musical guest Brenn Hill.
8:45-9:45 p.m. » Professor Tom Morris hosts campground program on Capitol Reef geology.
— Nate Carlisle
Twitter: href="http://twitter.com/utahhikes" target="_blank">@UtahHikes
