Capitol Reef National Park Tours and Activities

Capitol Reef National Park showing desert views, tranquil scenes and a gorge or canyon
Capitol Reef National Park which includes a gorge or canyon, desert views and tranquil scenes
Capitol Reef National Park featuring tranquil scenes, a gorge or canyon and desert views
Capitol Reef National Park featuring tranquil scenes, a gorge or canyon and desert views
Capitol Reef National Park featuring desert views, tranquil scenes and a gorge or canyon


Historic human artefacts complement the fascinating geologic features formed millions of years ago in this park of red cliffs and white rock.

Like other southern Utah lands, Capitol Reef National Park has colourful cliffs and rock canyons up to 275 million years old. Its uniqueness comes from specific shapes and sights. Inspect 1,000-year-old Fremont Culture Indian petroglyph rock art. Try to identify the “Capitol” and “reef” that influenced early pioneers who gave the area its name. 

In the white Navajo sandstone, look for prominent domes that resemble the dome of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The reef is a descriptive term for the monocline or wrinkle running through the park. Stop at viewing points along the 100 miles (160 kilometres) of this Waterpocket Fold. 

The park’s geology varies from one mile to the next. Striking orange and green rock colours relate to iron presence in different chemical states. See giant pinnacles formed when sedimentary layers experienced erosion. Notice the layers or strata uplifted by ancient fault activity and folded over onto itself, forming the monocline. Here, on ancient hardened dunes, wind and water have created numerous holes, leaving solution pockets on giant boulders. View an on-line virtual tour and follow the Scenic Drive to see these and other geologic features.  

Capitol Reef gets only 7 inches (180 millimetres) of rain annually. Despite these desert conditions, you’ll find productive orchards planted by Mormons in the 1880s and irrigated today to preserve historic authenticity. Eat a few samples from the trees in late summer and purchase additional nuts and fruits to take home. 

A highway actually runs through the park in the midst of all this geological beauty. Stop at a viewing area to walk along a raised boardwalk where you can inspect petroglyphs. Pay the entrance fee to access other park areas containing domes, the monocline, the Fremont River, hiking trails and campsites. 

Capitol Reef National Park is part of a 300-mile (480-kilometre) string of five national parks in southern Utah. Plan a trip of several days to visit all five. Purchase an interagency pass for discounts. U.S. national parks offer affordable adventure for all types of travellers. See an otherworldly domain on your trip to Capitol Reef National Park.

Popular places to visit


Top Capitol Reef National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Capitol Reef Resort

Capitol Reef Resort

4 out of 5
2600 E. Hwy 24, Torrey, UT
Capitol Reef Resort
Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

2.5 out of 5
955 East SR-24, Torrey, UT
Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse
The Rim Rock Inn

The Rim Rock Inn

2.5 out of 5
2523 Highway 24 E, Torrey, UT
The Rim Rock Inn
Red Sands Hotel

Red Sands Hotel

3.5 out of 5
670 E Highway 24, Torrey, UT
Red Sands Hotel
The Noor Hotel

The Noor Hotel

2 out of 5
877 North State Road 24, Torrey, UT
The Noor Hotel
Cowboy Cabin

Cowboy Cabin

3 out of 5
2345 Cowboy road, Torrey, UT
Cowboy Cabin
Skyridge Inn

Skyridge Inn

4 out of 5
1012 E Hwy 24, Torrey, UT
Skyridge Inn
Wingate House at Sand Creek Homestead

Wingate House at Sand Creek Homestead

Torrey
Wingate House at Sand Creek Homestead
Casitas at Capitol Reef

Casitas at Capitol Reef

2 out of 5
360 W Main St, Torrey, UT
Casitas at Capitol Reef
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park offers a range of outdoor adventures, including thrilling hiking trails and scenic trail rides. Enjoy exciting activities such as fishing in picturesque spots or exploring the vibrant Moab area nearby for even more fun. Whether you're keen on exploring the rugged landscape or soaking in the natural beauty, there's something for every adventurer in this stunning part of Utah.

Shopping

The nearest shop is the Capitol Reef Visitor Center, where you can find park-themed gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby town of Torrey, where local boutiques offer unique handmade crafts and artwork that capture the spirit of Utah.

Recreation

Capitol Reef Resort offers rejuvenating spa treatments amid stunning red rock scenery, perfect for relaxation. Explore the park’s picturesque hiking trails, where you can connect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and take in breathtaking views, making it an ideal destination for wellness and outdoor activities.

Adventure

The Hickman Bridge Trail, located 3.2km from Capitol Reef National Park, offers stunning scenery and an adventurous hike to a magnificent natural arch. For a different experience, explore Cohab Canyon Trail, only 1.6km away, where you’ll encounter breathtaking views amidst vibrant landscapes. Enjoy the outdoors at Ke Bullock Waterfowl Management Area, situated 25.7km from the park, perfect for birdwatching and immersing yourself in nature.

Nightlife

Capitol Reef National Park offers a serene nightlife, perfect for stargazing under the vast Utah sky. Nearby, local spots like the Capitol Reef Resort provide cosy lounges and campfire gatherings, where you can enjoy storytelling and s'mores, connecting with nature and fellow travellers in a relaxed atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park offers a blend of adventure, culture, and outdoor experiences for tourists. Visitors can explore the park's visitor centre, take in breathtaking views from lookout points, and delve into history at archaeological sites. Whether you're keen on hiking or discovering the rich heritage of Capitol Reef, there are plenty of attractions in Capitol Reef Country that cater to your adventurous spirit.

  • Capitol Reef National Park Visitor Center: Located a mere 161m from the park, this Visitor Center is your gateway to adventure. With its outdoor family vibes, it offers valuable information on trails, wildlife, and park history, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
  • Ripple Rock Nature Center: Situated 644m away, this eco-friendly hub focuses on environmental education. Its business and eco-friendly vibes make it an excellent spot for learning about local ecology and conservation efforts through interactive exhibits.
  • Petroglyphs Panel: A short 3.2km trek leads you to this fascinating archaeological site. The Petroglyphs Panel showcases ancient rock carvings, providing deep cultural insights into the region's history and the indigenous peoples who once inhabited it.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Capitol Reef National Park

To save money on your visit to Capitol Reef National Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure better rates, especially if you opt for Wednesday stays, which are typically cheaper than Saturdays. Use Expedia to compare prices and find package deals that combine flights and activities. Additionally, look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainable travel while saving on costs. Take advantage of free activities in the park to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Capitol Reef National Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Capitol Reef National Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Capitol Reef National Park is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Capitol Reef National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your accommodation at Capitol Reef National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.