Capitol Reef National Park: A First Time Visitor Guide
Capitol Reef National Park, located in south-central Utah, is often considered one of the hidden gems of the state’s “Mighty 5” national parks. Known for its stunning rock formations, the Waterpocket Fold, historic orchards, and scenic drives, this park offers a mix of geological wonders, hiking trails, and unique cultural history. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your first visit to Capitol Reef.
Basic info:
- Name: Capitol Reef National Park
- Location: Utah
- Fee: $20 per car
- Best things to do: Hiking, stargazing, scenic driving and more (see visitor recommendations)
- Hotels: See closest hotels to the park
Getting There:
Capitol Reef is located in a remote area of Utah, but it’s accessible from several major cities.
- From Salt Lake City: It’s about a 3.5-hour drive (215 miles) via I-15 South and US-50 East.
- From Moab: It’s a 2.5-hour drive (150 miles) via US-191 North and I-70 West, followed by UT-24 West.
- Nearest Town: The closest town to the park is Torrey, Utah, which is just 11 miles west of the park’s main entrance on Highway 24.
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days.
Photos:
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). This is one of the best times to visit, as the desert blooms with wildflowers, creating a colorful landscape.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another ideal time, with similar temperatures and fewer crowds. The changing colors of the cottonwoods in the park’s orchards add a beautiful contrast to the red rock formations.
- Summer (June to August): Summers can be hot, with temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C), especially in the lower elevations. If visiting in summer, plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Snow is rare but possible, particularly at higher elevations. The winter season offers solitude and unique photography opportunities.
Things to Do:
Capitol Reef has a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and photographers! Here’s a breakdown of the most popular things to do when you visit:
Scenic Drive: The Scenic Drive is an 8-mile paved route that provides breathtaking views of the park’s colorful cliffs, domes, and canyons. Be sure to stop at the Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge, and Fruita Historic District for short hikes and photo opportunities. A $10 fee is required for this drive, payable at the Visitor Center.
Visit the Fruita Historic District:The Fruita Historic District, located near the Visitor Center, is a preserved Mormon settlement that dates back to the late 1800s.
Orchards: The orchards here offer a unique experience, with opportunities to pick fresh fruit in season, including apples, peaches, and cherries. There’s a small fee for fruit picking.
Gifford Homestead: This historic homestead features a museum and a shop selling homemade pies, jams, and salsas—perfect for a post-hike treat.
Picnic Area: Enjoy a picnic under the shade of cottonwood trees near the Fremont River.
Hiking Trails: Capitol Reef has trails for all skill levels, offering panoramic views, slot canyons, and unique rock formations. The following are some of the most popular ones:
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- Hickman Bridge Trail: A moderate 2 mile round-trip with about 400 feet of elevation. This popular trail leads to a massive natural bridge, offering views of the Fremont River Valley and surrounding cliffs.
- Capitol Gorge Trail: An easy 2 mile round-trip. This hike takes you through a narrow canyon with ancient petroglyphs and “pioneer register” inscriptions left by early settlers.
- Cohab Canyon Trail: This moderate 3.4 mile (440 feet of elevation) round-trip features colorful slot canyons and panoramic views of the Fruita Historic District and surrounding cliffs.
- Cassidy Arch Trail: A strenuous 3.4 miles round-trip with 950 feet of elevation. This trail offers a steep ascent to a gigantic arch with incredible views of the canyon below. You can also walk on the top of it.
Stargazing: Capitol Reef is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places for stargazing in Utah. The clear skies offer stunning views of the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars.
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- Best Spots: The Fruita Campground and Panorama Point are great spots to set up for stargazing.
- Tip: Bring a blanket, a telescope, or binoculars to enhance your stargazing experience.
Rock Art and Petroglyphs:
Capitol Reef is home to numerous petroglyph panels created by the Fremont Culture, who lived in the area over a thousand years ago.
- Petroglyph Panel: Located along Highway 24, just east of the Visitor Center, this well-preserved petroglyph panel features images of people, animals, and geometric shapes carved into the rock. A short boardwalk leads to the viewing area, making it accessible for all visitors.
Where to Stay:
While there are no hotels inside Capitol Reef, there are several options nearby options:
- Torrey: 20 minutes from the park (see hotels).
- Moab: The town of Moab is located 2 hours from the park but has many more hotels (and 2 more national parks nearby). See hotel options.
Nearby Attractions:
- Goblin Valley State Park: Located about 50 miles northeast of Capitol Reef, Goblin Valley State park is known for its hoodoos and unique rock formations that resemble goblins.
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: Located to the south of Capitol Reef, this monument offers slot canyons, arches, and scenic backcountry drives. I would even call this a national park because of how many beautiful places there are in here, but it is much more remote.
- Scenic Byway 12: Often considered one of the most scenic drives in Utah the country, Highway 12 connects Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon National Park, passing through stunning landscapes and small towns along the way.
Last Things to Know:
Capitol Reef National Park offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. From hiking to ancient petroglyphs, fruit-picking in historic orchards, and stargazing under clear desert skies, this park has something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your first visit to one of Utah’s most underrated national parks.
