Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef is a dramatic desert park where pink sandstone fins meet a tranquil Fruita Historic District, offering nice hikes and memorable night skies.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Southwestern United States |
| Country | United States |
| State | Utah |
| Latitude | 38 |
| Longitude | -111.4 |
| Maps |
Capitol Reef sits along the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long geologic monocline that carved towering fins and hidden canyons. In the Fruita Historic District, century-old orchards share space with petroglyphs etched into canyon walls. The park’s short, paved scenic drive offers overlooks to the Waterpocket Fold, while hikes like Hickman Bridge and Capitol Gorge reveal natural arches and slot canyons. Beyond the main routes, backcountry trails invite solitude among cliffs, arches, and quiet desert pools. At night, the desert sky blooms with stars, unmarred by city lights.
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