capitol reef national park
Situated in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is a breathtaking location renowned for its untamed rock formations, vibrant canyons, and intriguing geology. More than 2,700 recognized arches, as well as a large number of natural bridges and monoliths, could be seen at Capitol Reef. The word “reef” refers to a rocky barrier to passage, akin to a coral reef, and the park’s name is derived from the white domes of Navajo Sandstone that mimic the US Capitol building. Capitol Reef offers activities for all types of visitors, including hiking, beautiful drives, camping, stargazing, orchards, and simply taking in the majesty of nature.
BASIC FACTS ON CAPITOL REEF
LOCATION: Utah
SIZE: 241,904 acres (97,895 hectares)
FOUNDED: December 18, 1971
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November)
HOW MANY DAYS: 1-2 DAYS
ROAD TRIP SUGGESTION: UTAH’S MIGHTY 5 ROAD TRIP (7-Day Itinerary OR 10-Day Itinerary); AMERICAN SOUTHWEST ROAD TRIP (10-Day Itinerary OR 14-Day Itinerary)
NOTE: Reservations might be required to enter the park during peak seasons and you might need additional info about the park in order to have a smooth travel. Please VISIT HERE for latest information about the park.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
*Go for Scenic Drives on Highway 24 and Capitol Reef Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Capitol Dome, the Waterpocket Fold, and other geological features as you travel through the park on the picturesque Highway 24. With its many overlooks and trailheads, the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is an absolute must-do. For amazing views of the park’s untamed terrain and striking rock formations, stop at viewpoints including Goosenecks Overlook, and at Sunset Point and Panorama Point especially at sunset time.
*See the Petroglyphs: Observe prehistoric rock art made by the Fremont people by strolling along the Petroglyphs Trail, which is along Highway 24. A glimpse of the area’s rich cultural past is provided via the route.
*Go Hiking. Hiking trails at Capitol Reef range in difficulty from easy to difficult. The Grand Wash Trail, the Capitol Gorge Trail, the Cassidy Arch Trail and the Hickman Bridge Trail are a few of the popular hiking trails. Views of the breathtaking canyon, arches, and petroglyphs could all be seen on these trails.
*Visit and explore Historic Fruita: Explore the region’s agricultural past while picking fruit (when available) at the ancient Fruita orchards. The orchards are a lovely location for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Among the few surviving structures in Fruita’s historic district is the Gifford Homestead, which offers books, soap, dolls, quilts, jams, jellies, and jellies manufactured by regional artisans. However, the pie is the main attraction. Come get some locally produced ice cream and fruit pie.
*Go for a more adventurous scenic drive on Loop the Fold and/or Capitol Gorge Road. On Capitol Gorge Road, you could visit Pioneer Register where you could find names written on the canyon walls by Mormon migrants who came here in the late 18th century and early 19th century.
*Go Camping. To really appreciate Capitol Reef’s magnificence at night, spend the night in one of the park’s campgrounds. A well-liked option that provides breathtaking views of the nearby cliffs is Fruita Campground.
*Go stagazing. Capitol Reef is a great place to go stargazing because of its dark skies. Thousands of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way are visible on clear nights.
*Other things to do: Join ranger programs; Go backpacking; Wildlife sightseeing.
