National Park Guide

Capitol Reef National Park

Utah, US

A hidden gem of colorful canyons, massive domes, and pioneer orchards along the Waterpocket Fold.

241,904
Acres
25
Trails
1971
Established
1.2 million
Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season
Year-round
Entrance Fee
$20 per vehicle
Nearest Airport
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), 3.5 hours
Best Months
April, May, October

Highlights

  • Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
  • Hickman Bridge natural arch
  • Grand Wash slot canyon
  • Fruita historic orchards and fruit picking
  • Cathedral Valley remote four-wheel drive adventure

Park Map

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About Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park preserves the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long wrinkle in the earth's crust that reveals millions of years of geological history through its colorful cliffs, canyons, and domes. The park features historic orchards planted by Mormon pioneers in the Fruita district where visitors can pick fruit in season. Less crowded than nearby Utah parks, Capitol Reef offers world-class hiking through narrow slot canyons, scenic drives, and some of the darkest night skies in the lower 48 states.

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Where to Stay

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Capitol Reef Resort

$$$

Premier 58-acre resort one mile from the park entrance offering cabins, teepees, and Conestoga wagons, with outdoor pool, spa tub, horseback riding, llama walks, and Jeep tours.

5 min drive$180-350/night
Check on Hotels.com

Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

$$

Western-style hilltop inn in Torrey with red rock views, indoor heated pool, hot tub, free hot breakfast, and a full-service steakhouse with classic comfort food.

10 min drive$120-220/night
Check on Hotels.com

Days Inn by Wyndham Torrey Capital Reef

$

Value-friendly hotel off Highway 24 just 3 miles from Capitol Reef with indoor pool, free grab-and-go breakfast, and easy access to Boulder Mountain Scenic Highway.

10 min drive$70-140/night
Check on Hotels.com

Park Details

Highest Point
8,960 ft (Thousand Lake Mountain area)
Camping
Available
Wilderness Areas
Yes
Pet Friendly
Limited (developed areas only)
Region
Southwest
Established
1971