Capitol Reef National Park is a captivating red rock landscape in south-central Utah, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, sprawling canyons, colorful domes, and natural bridges. At the heart of the park lies the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile long geologic monocline, often described as a wrinkle on the earth. This hidden treasure preserves rich geological features, unique plant and animal life, and a deep cultural history including pioneer orchards and ancient Native American sites.
Capitol Reef National Park protects a spectacular region of red sandstone, twisted formations, desert canyons, and historic orchards. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike slot canyons, discover petroglyphs, and experience a remote beauty unlike any other. The park offers camping, ranger programs, and year-round access for adventure and discovery.
Overview
Capitol Reef National Park is centered on the Waterpocket Fold—a geologic wrinkle stretching nearly 100 miles that formed through intense earth movements. The park’s landscape features towering sandstone cliffs, natural arches, deep canyons, and unique domes. It was established to preserve both its remarkable geology and the rich cultural history of the area, which includes evidence of Fremont people, early pioneers, and Native American tribes.
- The Waterpocket Fold is the dominant geologic feature, formed some 70 million years ago during the Laramide Orogeny when the earth's crust was uplifted and folded.
- The park protects over 241,000 acres of diverse terrain, including the famous Capitol Dome, which resembles the U.S. Capitol building.
- Ancient petroglyphs, pioneer orchards, and historic structures tell the story of long-term human habitation and adaptation in the region.
- Today, the park is managed for both preservation and public enjoyment, with scenic drives, hiking trails, and educational programs for all ages .
Plan Your Visit
Capitol Reef National Park is open year-round, with the main visitor center in Torrey serving as a hub for trip planning, exhibits, and ranger information. The park offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, camping, and ranger-led programs.
Capitol Reef Visitor Center
The Capitol Reef Visitor Center in Torrey, Utah, is the primary orientation point for visitors. Here, you can get maps, learn about the geology and history of the park, and discover current conditions and event schedules.
- Rangers are available to answer questions, and the center features educational exhibits on the Waterpocket Fold and pioneer history.
- The visitor center offers details on permits, including those needed for canyoneering, rock climbing, and backpacking.
- Torrey, located just outside the park boundary, provides lodging, dining, and other amenities for visitors .
Scenic Drives
The park’s Scenic Drive takes visitors deep into Capitol Reef’s heart, passing colorful cliffs, historic Fruita, and remarkable rock formations.
- Scenic Drive Rehabilitation Project: The park is undertaking repairs and improvements to Scenic Drive and several parking areas. Visitors should check for construction updates before traveling this route.
- Other notable drives include the Fremont River Drive and the Capitol Reef Scenic Loop, both offering outstanding views and trailhead access .
Hiking
Capitol Reef features hikes for every level, from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures.
- Popular hikes include the Hickman Bridge Trail, Cassidy Arch Trail, and the Grand Wash Slot Canyon.
- Rangers offer programs highlighting the park’s geology, history, and unique ecosystems.
- Permits are required for some backcountry routes and technical canyoneering areas .
Camping
The Fruita Campground is the park's main camping area, situated in a scenic valley near historic orchards and along the Fremont River.
- Campsites offer tent pads, restrooms, and access to hiking trails.
- Reservations are recommended during peak seasons, and some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Additional camping options are available in nearby communities such as Torrey .
Geology and Landscape
The centerpiece of Capitol Reef is the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust created during the Laramide Orogeny some 70 million years ago.
- Layers of sedimentary rock, including sandstones, limestones, and shales, have been uplifted, folded, and eroded to create the park’s dramatic cliffs and valleys.
- Erosion by water and wind has carved slot canyons, natural bridges, and domes throughout the park.
- The Capitol Dome is composed of white Navajo sandstone, reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol building, and is a signature landmark.
- The park’s geology tells a story of ancient seas, rivers, deserts, and volcanic activity that shaped the region over hundreds of millions of years .
Cultural History
Capitol Reef preserves evidence of long-term human occupation, from ancient Native American tribes to 19th-century pioneers.
- The Fremont people left petroglyphs and other archaeological traces that are visible in various parts of the park.
- The Fruita area contains pioneer-built irrigation ditches and a thriving orchard planted in the 1880s by Mormon settlers.
- Historic cabins and fruit trees remain as reminders of early settlement and adaptation to the desert environment .
Wildlife and Plant Life
The park supports a variety of animals and plants adapted to its desert and riparian environments.
- Wildlife includes mule deer, coyotes, various lizards and snakes, and numerous bird species such as peregrine falcons and golden eagles.
- The Fremont River and associated riparian zones provide critical habitat for many species and support lush vegetation in an otherwise arid landscape.
- Plant life ranges from cactus and desert shrubs on the high slopes to cottonwoods, willows, and fruit trees in the valleys.
- Ranger programs and interpretive signs help visitors learn about the park’s ecosystems and the adaptations of its flora and fauna .
Management and Permits
The National Park Service manages Capitol Reef with a focus on preserving its unique geology, cultural resources, and natural beauty.
- Permits are required for activities such as canyoneering, rock climbing, backpacking, group activities, and commercial tours.
- Ranger-led programs, educational materials, and volunteer opportunities support stewardship and visitor engagement.
- The park follows Leave No Trace principles to protect its sensitive environments and ensure a wilderness experience for all .
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
Capitol Reef National Park
HC 70, Box 15
Torrey, UT
Phone: 435-425-3791 (Recorded information available 24 hours)
Email: care_information@nps.gov
Links
Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025
