Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem in South-Central Utah. Regions like Zion or Moab often overshadow this park, but don’t underestimate the beauty and history within the Capitol Reef boundaries. If you are looking for a little park packed with outdoor activities, Capitol Reef is the perfect place for you!

Located along the Waterpocket Fold - a literal wrinkle in the earth - Capitol Reef is home to the historic Fruita district: a pioneer settlement established in the late 1800s. Buildings and orchards built and planted by these early settlers still stand tall today. Stop by Fruita for fruit-picking in the late summer and hiking, horseback riding, and cycling year-round. The developed campground located in Fruita is a fantastic place to set up a base, from which you venture out along the trails of Capitol Reef.

When you head out on the trails, be sure to check out the impressive sandstone monoliths of the Cathedral district, the historical writings and drawings on the walls of Capitol Gorge, and the cascading waterfalls along Sulphur Creek. If you’d like to learn more about this park, the National Park Service hosts free talks about the geology and history of this park regularly.

The best time to visit Capitol Reef National park is in the spring and fall when the weather is cool enough to hike comfortably, and you don’t have to worry about flash flooding during the summer monsoons. If you’d like a helping hand planning your trip to America’s Southwest, check out our amazing adventure tours in Utah.