Capitol Reef is the most overlooked national park in Utah, but most definitely one of my favorite National Parks. The fact that this park is so frequently overlooked is part of the reason that it’s so special. Did you know that this incredible national park still exists out there to the detriment of many people’s lack of knowledge?
Well, it’s true. As for now, that’s part of the reason that Capitol Reef still has the lowest park attendance rate in the state. So, if you’re looking for a place to get away from the crowds in Utah, this place will definitely do the job. For those looking for memorable outdoor adventures, hiking the Cassidy Arch Trail ranks among the best things to do in Capitol Reef National Park.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
1. Take a Hike to Cassidy Arch
Hiking to the awesome Cassidy Arch is one of our favorite activities with Capitol Reef National Park. The trail has a total round trip of 3.1 miles with an elevation gain of more than 600 feet. This part of the trail is pretty steep, but the first 0.75 miles is somewhat easier, then a “find your own route” climb over sandstone rock to the summit of Cassidy Arch.
This hike will definitely challenge those with a fear of heights but it’s so worth it! This is the second one we found that is also different from an arch in Utah in that if you want to take a picture, you can walk out on top of this one without stepping on it! In the middle of the day the trail is quite full especially for early tours so go the wee hours of the morning or evening to stay away from the crowds.
2. The Fruita District
The Fruita District is home to Capitol Reef’s only visitor center. It has some of the most fabulous red rock scenery in the area and the park has the only paved road system in the park. Sheltered picnic areas, historic and cultural sites, drives and views of apple orchards. The most convenient area of Capitol Reef National Park is the Fruita District. For 99% of all its visitors, it is welcoming. It was the only place at Capitol Reef that we had to park so we could get to the trailers next to us or be allowed to step aside by others as they hiked by.
3. Watch Movie “Watermark” at the Visitor Center
It should be noted that the Waterpocket Fold is the “reason why Capitol Reef National Park exists”. It is named an “earth’s “wrinkle” by geologists. At 100 miles long and 7,000 feet tall, however, “wrinkle” is a rather mild word for the structure. The simple description: one side of the “wrinkle has been thrust up into the air 7,000 feet higher than the other.
Add 15 million years worth of erosion and that my friend, has made some interesting geological features. The best way to enjoy the wonders you get to discover as you follow the trails of the parks is to start your tour at the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. And their feature movie Watermark should be on the top of your Capitol Reef National Park things to do list. It’s only 20 minutes long and well worth the time.
4. Pie at Gifford Homestead
That’s the Gifford House, and it is a part of a historically important homestead that features the old barn shown above. Only the original home was built in 1908 and has been carefully refurbished. Home-made pies are sold in the park today, and the money goes toward keeping and improving the park. Made traditionally, these homemade pies are unmatched in quality and have made a great reputation with visitors. They are delicious and have a long tradition but are still prepared using fresh ingredients and traditional methods and so are a definite highlight and favourite stop by for those visiting the area.
5. Fremont Petroglyphs
From there on out, the beautiful path leads to Fremont Petroglyphs, which is one of the more interesting cultural attractions in this area. A short walking trail allows visitors to come to the close for a few moments to view the rock art carvings created by the Fremont occupants 400 years ago. These petroglyphs are carved directly into the walls of the Canyon and include animal, human and mythical figures and designs that offer a glimpse into the life and beliefs of an earlier civilization. Located in a convenient place, the property is family friendly and ideal for a day-let and is a worthwhile site of the area.
6. North (Cathedral Valley) District
Cathedral Valley is among the roughest and most inaccessible corners of the park. In 1945 honored by the names of Frank Beckwith and Charles Kelly, the first superintendent of the park, the area’s high peaks and rounded rocks were reputed to be likenesses of Gothic cathedrals and Egyptian architecture. This is a difficult area to access and is recommended for 4X4 or AWD vehicles with high clearance as some areas are saucy and rough. The area is best viewed on the 60-mile-long Cathedral Valley Driving Loop which features the iconic Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon in spectacular desert surroundings.
7. Explore the Grand Wash Trail
Grand Wash is, undoubtedly, one of the most scenic hikes of Capitol Reef National Park. This 2.1-mile one-way trail (4.2 mile round trip) takes you through a beautiful wash in an equally beautiful canyon with climbs to high points of dramatic red cliffs. Morning or late afternoon hikes will allow for plenty of shade – the canyon walls can block direct sunlight. Grand Wash exemplifies the pleasant climate and calm conditions of this area, and with the cooler weather and quieter climate this’ll be a memorable and rewarding experience if you are exploring the park.
8. Panorama Point and Goosnecks Overlook
The sheer beauty of Panorama Point is one of the first large vistas experienced as one drives into Capitol Reef National Park from the Torrey area. The viewpoint is on a road one mile off of Hwy. 24, close to the western entrance of the park and provides a great overview of the desert landscape and the contrasting color and shapes of the rocks in the area as well as distinctive geological features that characterize the area. It is easily accessed by visitors driving into the park, with a short distance up the steep path to the overlook. The panoramic scene is an excellent introduction to the dramatic terrain and natural beauty of Capitol Reef.
9. Look for Outlaws
These canyons have been rumored to be involved with Butch Cassidy and his gang and have made the Grand Wash area, further interesting through the mystery and Old West history of it. The intricate passages give a peek into the Lands of Outlaws that were once sheltered and provided refuge within some of the most rugged areas. Many tourists also sense a feeling of “living in the frontier times” in the dramatic scenery. If you have the time, local companies will offer horseback rides through the canyons guided by local horses – it’s like you stepped into a classic western movie!
10. Fish Lake
About an hour from Capitol Reef, this is a beautiful place. We picked this up when we were out visiting in the fall and we saw the salmon swimming upstream, walking along the edge of the lake. We also ran out for fishing and kayaking. Being at this high an elevation, it would be a wonderful location to visit during the summer to escape the heat.
11. Hickman Bridge Trail
Capitol Reef National Park’s most popular hiking trail is the Hickman Bridge Trail. This is about 2 miles by round trip from the town and of moderate, but acceptable, difficulty for most people, and is a worthwhile venture in terms of scenery, too. As one walks along the walk, one crosses the layers of rocks and views the Fremont River and across a large desert, with views to the natural bridge. Limited parking is available; make sure to arrive early. In the summer of middle of the day can be quite hot, often humid or damp — water will come in handy for a good hike!
Best Time to Visit Capitol Reef National Park
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-October) are the best seasons to visit Capitol Reef National Park for mild temperatures, great hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures. Spring is a time of wildflowers and good weather and fall is the time for cooler temperatures and autumn orchards in the historic Fruita district. It can get very hot when it’s summertime, particularly in outcrops in a desert, and doing things during the day can be tricky. Winter months see the quietest time of year with less visitors and sometimes snowy areas, but such times there may be some suffering from weather conditions, some trails and roads may be affected.
FAQ: Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
1. What are the top things to do in Capitol Reef National Park?
The popular activities are hiking the scenic trails, driving the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, visiting the Fruita Historic District, the petroglyph panels and photo-ops of the park’s petroglyphs.
2. What is the best hike in Capitol Reef National Park?
One of the most popular walks is the Hickman Bridge Trail which has an excellent view and a natural bridge with a relatively short path.
3. Can you drive through Capitol Reef National Park?
Yes. With limited time on your hands, the Scenic Drive offers access to many viewpoints, trailheads and canyon landscapes.
4. Are there family-friendly activities in the park?
Yes. Families will find the park pleasant for walking on easy trails, watching the wildlife or visiting historic sites and the fruit orchards in the Fruita area.
5. How much time do you need in Capitol Reef National Park?
For the highlights a full day is enough, two to three will result in more hikes, drives, and exploring more distant areas.
Read Next
Best Places to Visit in Greece
