Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is characterized by sandstone formations, cliffs and canyons, and a 100-mile long bulge in the earth's crust called the Waterpocket Fold. Erosion has carved the rock into marvelous shapes. This is an inviting wilderness of rock with descriptive names such as Capitol Dome, Hickman Bridge, Grand Wash and Cathedral Valley. Many attractions can be seen only by hiking.

Designated a national monument in 1937 and a national park in 1971, the majesty of Capitol Reef has been intriguing visitors with its twisting canyons, massive domes, monoliths and spires of sandstone for the past century. The famous Burr Trail cuts through the lower part of the park.

View our Capitol Reef photo tour to see some of this parks main attractions.

Activities at Capitol Reef

From deep narrow gorges to a bird's eye view on the top of a peak, Capitol Reef National Park offers an assortment of activities to visitors. The beauty of Capitol Reef can be experienced on foot or bicycle. In the midst of Capitol Reef's red rocks is the verdant Fremont River Valley, where one can see rock art - the legacy of the ancient Fremont culture - etched into the sandstone walls. Cathedral Valley, a backcountry section of the park, is accessible via dirt roads appropriate for high-clearance vehicles (four-wheel-drive is usually not necessary but may be required in wet weather). Nearby, the remnants of Fruita, an early pioneer settlement, contain large orchards in which fruit may still be picked in season. Other activities include:

• Capitol Reef-area information (Things to See & Do)
• 25-mile scenic drive; a minimal fee applies
• Guided walks and evening programs are available free of charge.
• Fishing on the Fremont River above the park, and in small lakes and streams on nearby Boulder Mountain. (A valid fishing license is required)
• Rock climbing
• Hiking
• Biking
• Off-Road
• Horseback Riding

Location of Capitol Reef

Capitol Reef National Park is 10 miles east of the town of Torrey, or 37 miles west of the town of Hanksville on paved SR 24. See our database for a list of Capitol Reef accommodations.

Visitor Center/Fees for Capitol Reef

Located just off Highway 24, the visitor center is open year-round with information, displays, and a slide program. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and learn how to visit the park with minimal impact to the fragile desert environment. Maps, brochures, and books are available for purchase.

• Visitor Center is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended summer hours.
• A museum offering insights to the geology, archaeology and history of the area is available for exploration.
• An entrance fee of $5 per vehicle or $3 per individual biking or hiking is charged for traveling the park's scenic drive beyond the Fruita campground.
• Nearest accommodations are available in Torrey and Bicknell.
• Three campgrounds are located within the park. The main campground offers 70 RV/camping sites. It is surrounded by historic orchards; cost is $10 per night. The backcountry campgrounds are free of charge, but have minimal facilities available