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Wingate Sandstone cliffs behind historic barn and farmhouse
Destinations › … › United States › Utah

Capitol Reef National Park

warningCaution2 warnings calendar_monthApr–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$10entry
Capitol Reef National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Caution Elevated E. Coli levels - Fremont River and Sulphur Creek

Recent water quality testing shows elevated E. coli levels in the Fremont River and Sulphur Creek. A warning advisory has been issued by the Utah DEQ. Use caution if entering the water. Do not get water in your mouth, do not swim. Wash hands with soap and water.

Caution Monsoon Season & Flash Floods

Heavy rains can cause sudden flooding, especially in canyons and washes. Do not drive or hike through flood waters. Get to high ground and wait for floods to subside. Some roads may close temporarily; closures are posted at the visitor center. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Capitol Reef National Park is located in Utah and covers an area of 378 square miles. The park is known for its unique geological features, including the Waterpocket Fold, a long monocline that creates dramatic landscapes. Visitors come to explore the canyons, ridges, and buttes, as well as to learn about the area's rich cultural history.

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The park's name reflects its rounded sandstone formations that resemble domes and the cliffs that act as barriers to travel. The area offers various outdoor activities, including hiking and fruit picking in the orchards along Highway 24, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

In pictures

A hiker stands beside Hickman Bridge, a natural sandstone bridge
A hiker stands beside Hickman Bridge, a natural sandstone bridge

Things to do

Stargaze
Winter/Spring

Capitol Reef protects extremely dark night skies, and is a wonderful place to stargaze.

Bicycle Touring
Winter/Spring

Bicycling touring in Capitol Reef offers opportunities to explore paved and unpaved roads throughout the park....

Watch the Sunset
Winter/Spring

Watch the sunset from various scenic points in Capitol Reef. Take an easy stroll or a strenuous hike as the su...

Visit the Petroglyph Panel
5-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

From 600 to 1300 C.E., native people of the Fremont Culture made their home at Capitol Reef. Petroglyphs carve...

Scenic Drive Tour
90 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Take Capitol Reef's Scenic Drive, and experience colorful cliffs and deep narrow canyons from the comfort of y...

Hike in the South (Waterpocket) District
Winter/Spring

Get to know the South (Waterpocket) District on foot by hiking an easy trail or strenuous backcountry route. M...

Picnic
Winter/Spring

Enjoy a picnic in Capitol Reef National Park! In the Fruita Historic District, look for the Doc Inglesby and C...

Hike Cathedral Valley
Spring/Summer

Explore Cathedral Valley by foot. These hikes are accessible only by rough unpaved roads. A high clearance veh...

Hike an Easy or Moderate Trail
Winter/Spring

Hike an easy or moderate trail to see panoramic views or to experience a deep sandstone canyon.

Driving the Burr Trail
1-14 Days · Winter/Spring

Drive the scenic Burr Trail from Glen Canyon's Bullfrog district, along the bottom of Capitol Reef, through Gr...

Hike a Strenuous Trail
Winter/Spring

Hike a strenuous trail to view dramatic geologic formations and spectacular vistas.

Practical

At a glance

Established
1971
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Per Person $10, Commercial Entrance - Per Pe $10, Commercial Entrance - Per Pe $10
Accessibility
some trails are steep, limited wheelchair access
Address
52 West Headquarters Drive, Torrey, UT 84775
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
435-425-3791
Price
~$10
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect limited food options; snacks and drinks are available at the visitor center.
Fruit picking is allowed only during harvest season, with prices around 1 EUR per pound.
The Fruita Campground has both reserved and first-come, first-served sites; arrive early for the latter.
Dress in layers; temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

Photo: NPS Photo