CAPITOL REEF
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 241,904 ACRES

EST. 12 18 1971

UTAH

Planning a Trip to
Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah and is home to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust. This geological feature is made of colorful sandstone cliffs, canyons, and domes. Visitors to Capitol Reef can explore the area's unique rock formations, hike or bike along the park's trails, take part in ranger-led programs, or camp in the park's campgrounds. The park also offers cultural and educational opportunities as it is home to the Fremont culture and its petroglyphs, pictographs, and artifacts. Capitol Reef is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in geology and archaeology.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

Capitol Reef National Park is a great destination for outdoor adventurers year-round. Spring and fall offer the most temperate weather and are the best times to visit for hiking, backpacking, and camping. Summer temperatures can soar past 100 degrees, so be sure to plan accordingly. Winter brings cold temperatures, but the park is still open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities. No matter the season, Capitol Reef National Park is an unforgettable experience.

Capitol Reef National Park is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the type of activities you are planning. For outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, the best time to visit is spring and fall when temperatures are milder. For rock climbing and mountain biking, the summer months are ideal as the warmer temperatures help maximize grip on the rocks and trails. Winter brings cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, making it great for exploring the park's stunning canyons and slot canyons. Fall is also a great time to see the park's vibrant foliage, as the trees and shrubs turn vibrant shades of yellow, red, and orange. No matter the season, Capitol Reef National Park provides a unique and beautiful landscape to explore.

OVERVIEW

Capitol Reef National Park is a stunning natural area located in south-central Utah. It is known for its dramatic red rock formations, breathtakingly beautiful canyons and rich cultural history. The best things about Capitol Reef National Park are its stunning landscape, rich history and wide variety of outdoor activities. There are plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives, as well as opportunities for backpacking, camping, horseback riding and more. Capitol Reef is also home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants, making it a great place to observe nature. With its unique landscape, ancient history and abundant outdoor activities, Capitol Reef National Park is a great place to explore and enjoy.

WEATHER

Capitol Reef National Park experiences all four seasons and a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. Summers tend to be hot and dry, with temperatures reaching as high as 95°F/35°C, while winters are cooler and precipitation is common. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 40-75°F/4-24°C. Snow is possible in the winter months, and thunderstorms can occur in the summer. Visitors should ensure they are prepared for a variety of weather conditions when planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park.

Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah and is known for its spectacular geology and variety of ecosystems. The park is home to a desert climate with hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine. The summers are typically dry and hot with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are mild with temperatures remaining in the 40s and 50s. Spring and fall months see temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Capitol Reef National Park is home to a variety of landscapes, from high deserts to sandstone cliffs, canyons, and towering monoliths. The park's geology is shaped by the Waterpocket Fold, an enormous geologic monocline that runs through the park. This monocline is responsible for the remarkable landscape of the park, including the sandstone cliffs, canyons, and domes.

GEAR

When camping at Capitol Reef National Park, it is important to be prepared with the right gear. Here are the top 10 items to bring for a successful and enjoyable trip:
1. Tent: Choose a durable, lightweight tent that is suitable for the weather conditions.
2. Sleeping Bag: A warm sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep.
3. Flashlight or Headlamp: Bring a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for nighttime navigation.
4. Water Bottle: It is important to stay hydrated in the desert, so bring along a water bottle or canteen.
5. Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun with plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
6. First Aid Kit: This is a must for any camping trip.
7. Firewood: Gather wood from the park or bring some from home to light a campfire.
8. Cooking Supplies: Pack pots, pans, a stove, and other cooking supplies.
9. GPS: A GPS device can help you navigate the park and find your way back to camp.
10. Camera: Don’t forget a camera to capture all the amazing scenery.

1. Backpack: A good quality, comfortable backpack will make carrying gear and supplies much easier during your backpacking trip.
2. Tent: A lightweight, waterproof tent is essential for a comfortable night's sleep in the outdoors.
3. Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you are likely to encounter in Capitol Reef National Park will keep you warm and comfortable.
4. Water Filter: A water filter for purifying water from streams and other sources will ensure you have access to safe drinking water.
5. Navigation: A GPS or map and compass will help you stay on track and ensure you don’t get lost in the park.
6. Clothing: Make sure you have the right clothing for the climate, including a hat, rain gear, and layers of clothing.
7. First Aid Kit: Having a basic first aid kit prepared will help if anyone in your group gets injured.
8. Food: Pack enough food for the duration of your backpacking trip, plus some extra just in case.
9. Lighting: A flashlight or headlamp will help you be able to move around after dark.
10. Fire Starter: A fire starter will help you to be able to make a fire if needed.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Capitol Reef National Park is one of Utah's most historic areas, with evidence of human use going back thousands of years. Early settlers were attracted to the area for its abundance of resources and its unique geology. The Fremont people were the first to inhabit the region, leaving behind ancient petroglyphs and pictographs that are still visible today. Later, Mormon pioneers settled in the area and established the Fruita settlement, where they farmed and raised livestock. The area became known as Capitol Reef in the 1930s, when the United States Congress declared it a national monument. Today, visitors can explore the park's historic sites and enjoy the beauty of its rugged landscape.

Capitol Reef National Park is full of legendary stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most famous stories is the legend of the Sleeping Rainbow. According to the legend, a long time ago a rainbow stretched across the sky and fell asleep in the park, and it still sleeps there today. Another popular legend tells of the petroglyphs in the park. The petroglyphs were believed to have been made by a group of ancient Native American tribes, known as the Fremont People, who lived in the area thousands of years ago. There are also stories of hidden treasures and lost cities in the area that are still yet to be discovered. All of these legends make Capitol Reef National Park an exciting and mysterious place to explore.

RECOMMENDED

1. Visit Hickman Bridge - This beautiful natural arch is a great way to start your exploration of Capitol Reef.
2. Take a Hike - There are a variety of trails available for all skill levels, ranging from easy to difficult.
3. Explore the Scenic Drive - Take a drive along the scenic byway to take in the stunning views of the park.
4. Go on a Jeep Tour - Get up close and personal with the park on a jeep tour.
5. Visit Fruita Historic District - See the old orchards and learn about the history of the area.
6. Go Camping - Set up camp in the park and explore the area at your own pace.
7. Take a Boat Tour - Get a different perspective of the park by taking a boat tour.
8. Visit the Visitor Center - Learn more about the park and get tips from the park rangers.
9. Go Horseback Riding - Explore the park on horseback and take in the breathtaking views.
10. Have a Picnic - Enjoy a meal or snack with family or friends at one of the many picnic areas.

1. Spend your nights at Fruita Campground for the best views of the scenic red rock formations.
2. Take a drive down the scenic Notom-Bullfrog Road for stunning views of the Waterpocket Fold.
3. Enjoy the peace and quiet at Cathedral Valley Campground, located in the heart of the park.
4. For a unique camping experience, stay at Cedar Mesa Campground which is located atop a mesa.
5. Head to the Cohab Canyon Campground for access to the Grand Wash and its spectacular views.
6. Explore the backcountry at remote Strike Valley Overlook Campground.
7. Take a dip in the nearby Fremont River at Hanksville Campground.
8. Get some rest at Hickman Bridge Campground, located near the historic Hickman Bridge.
9. Go for a hike up Sulphur Creek to the Sulphur Creek Campground for a truly memorable experience.
10. Get close to nature at Thousand Lakes Campground, which is located in the park's backcountry.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

1. Explore the canyons and arches of Capitol Reef National Park. Take a hike through the Waterpocket Fold and explore its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and hidden arches.

2. Take part in an interpretive program and learn all about the natural and cultural history of the area.

3. Climb the Hickman Bridge, a natural arch in the park that stands 137 feet high.

4. Take a scenic drive on the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive and explore the Fruita Historic District.

5. Go camping and enjoy the stunning night skies in the desert.

6. Take a horseback ride and explore the park on horseback.

7. Visit the Fruita Orchard and sample the delicious fruits grown in the area.

8. Visit the Gifford House Museum and learn all about the area's unique cultural history.

9. Go fishing and catch some of the native fish in the Fremont River.

10. Enjoy a picnic and take in the stunning views of the park.

Capitol Reef National Park has some of the most picturesque hikes in the United States. Here are the top 10 hikes to do at Capitol Reef National Park, listed in order of difficulty:
1. Grand Wash Trail – Easy to Moderate
2. Hickman Bridge Trail – Easy
3. Chimney Rock Trail – Moderate
4. Cohab Canyon Trail – Moderate
5. Frying Pan Trail – Moderate
6. Cassidy Arch Trail – Moderate
7. Navajo Knobs Trail – Moderate to Strenuous
8. Sulphur Creek Trail – Moderate to Strenuous
9. Halls Creek Narrows Trail – Strenuous
10. Strike Valley Overlook Trail – Strenuous

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Capitol Reef National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting more than 1.5 million visitors each year. Located in south-central Utah, the park offers stunning views, diverse terrain, and a variety of recreational activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing. The park is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites, such as the Fruita Historic District and the Waterpocket Fold. The number of visitors to Capitol Reef National Park varies throughout the year, with the highest numbers of visitors in the summer months. During the peak season, the park can see up to 10,000 visitors a day. The park also sees an increase in visitors over the holidays and during spring break.