Capitol Reef National Park: Utah’s Red Rock Treasure
- Nicole
- Sep 3, 2024
- 3 min read
If you’re lucky enough to live in, or visit, Utah, you’re within driving distance of the Mighty Five: five incredible national parks that showcase the state’s staggering natural beauty.
Among them, one of my favorite national parks, Capitol Reef. Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem for those who love red rock landscapes with a side of tranquility. Tucked in south-central Utah near the town of Torrey, Capitol Reef offers cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges, all framed by the park’s defining feature: the Waterpocket Fold.
The Waterpocket Fold is an almost 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust, a classic monocline formed 50–70 million years ago during a major mountain-building event. Exploring the park is like stepping back in time, watching how wind, water, and centuries of geology shaped this rugged landscape.
Grab yourself a piece of the pie!
Nestled in the heart of red rock country is Fruita, a green oasis full of fruit trees originally planted by Mormon pioneers. Pick some fruit, enjoy the scenery, and savor the contrast of lush greenery against fiery sandstone cliffs.
No trip to Capitol Reef feels complete without a stop at the Gifford House in Fruita, where history meets homemade charm. Tucked into the heart of the orchard-lined settlement, this pioneer homestead-turned-museum is best known for its legendary mini fruit pies.
Flaky, buttery crusts filled with apples, cherries, peaches, or berries grown right in the surrounding orchards. There’s something magical about enjoying a slice of pie on the porch, red rock cliffs towering in the distance, with the hum of the Fremont River nearby. It’s more than dessert; it’s a sweet taste of history, tradition, and the slower pace of life that Fruita still holds onto. (Get there early, the pies sell out quickly!)
Capitol Reef is perfect for camping, whether you choose one of the established campgrounds like Cedar Mesa, Fruita, or Cathedral, or opt for a free backcountry permit to camp and explore off-the-beaten-path trails.
Backcountry hiking is for the more adventurous souls, complete with narrow gorges, twisting slot canyons, and breathtaking solitude awaits. If you go this route, always follow safety rules, tell someone your plan, and bring your sense of adventure.
Campfires are a must, of course, and you can grab firewood at Gifford House or local shops in Torrey. And yes, pets are welcome, on a leash, but remember, much of the park is a delicate ecosystem, so tread lightly and keep furry friends close.
Your Dog Can Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger!
Visit the Plan Your Visit page at Capitol Reef for more information on bringing your pet with you to this national park.
Capitol Reef National Park isn’t just a feast for the eyes, it’s alive with wildlife, from the tiniest desert creatures to impressive mammals. Keep an eye out for mule deer gracefully navigating the canyons, desert bighorn sheep scaling the cliffs, and golden eagles soaring high above the red rock formations.
Early risers and patient hikers may even spot bobcats or wild turkeys in the park’s quieter corners. Observing wildlife here is a reminder that this red rock wilderness is not just breathtaking. it’s alive, thriving, and full of stories waiting to be noticed.
Can't Miss Hikes!
Capitol Reef offers hikes for almost every type of adventurer—from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
Hickman Bridge: A short, two-mile round-trip hike along the Fremont River leads to a jaw-dropping 133-foot natural bridge. Perfect for families and children.
Cassidy Arch: A 3.5-mile round-trip hike across slickrock with 670 feet of elevation gain. Stunning views, steep drop-offs—best for adults and confident hikers.
Golden Throne: Four miles round-trip with 730 feet of elevation gain, ending at a golden-colored sandstone dome with sweeping vistas of the Henry Mountains.
Fremont River Trail: Just under two miles, starting from the park amphitheater. A short climb rewards you with overlooks of the river and canyon below.
Don’t miss the Gifford House, a small museum with 19th-century artifacts, plus ice cream and fresh fruit from the orchards. Be sure to explore unpaved roads to trailheads, and keep an eye out for petroglyphs etched into the cliffs by the Fremont Indians—history literally carved into the landscape.
Why Capitol Reef is Special?
Capitol Reef isn’t just a park; it’s an experience. The combination of untouched wilderness, dramatic geology, and rich history creates a peaceful, almost sacred atmosphere.
You can feel it in the air, the echoes of Fremont Indians, Mormon pioneers, and the Earth itself whispering stories millions of years old. It’s a place to hike, explore, and soak in natural beauty without the crowds of other parks. Truly, Capitol Reef may be Utah’s best-kept secret.
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