Capitol Reef National Park

The Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as a monocline, extends from nearby Thousand Lakes Mountain to the Colorado River (now Lake Powell). Capitol Reef National Park was established to protect this grand and colorful geologic feature, as well as the unique historical and cultural history found in the area.

HC 70 Box 15
Torrey, UT 84775-9602
435-425-3791 - Visitor Information

By Plane
Nearest major airport is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, approximately 250 miles north of the park.

By Car
Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah on Utah Highway 24.

By Plane
There is no public transportation to the park.

Getting Around
Utah Highway 24 runs east and west through the park. The Scenic Drive (25 mile round-trip)begins at the Visitor Center. Other dirt roads traverse the park both north and south of Highway 24. Be sure to check current conditions before heading out on these backcountry roads.

Summer tempertures often climb into the upper 90s (F), but nights cool down into the 50s (F) and 60s (F). The thunderstorm season from July through September brings cloudbursts, flash floods and lightning.

Spring and fall are milder with highs generally in the 50s (F) and 60s (F).

Daytime winter highs average less than 50 (F). Snowfall is usually light, especially at lower elevations.

Humidity is low all year.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Biking
• Camping
• Climbing
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Wilderness Area
• Wildlife Viewing
• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Mountaineering
• Nature Walks
• Stargazing

Recommended Activities
From May to September, the park offers a variety of ranger-guided programs at no charge. These include guided walks, talks, and evening programs at the campground amphitheater.

The Fruita schoolhouse is a restored and refurbished historic structure located on U-24, .8 miles east of the visitor center. A recorded message describes teaching in a one-room school.

The blacksmith shop, .5 miles south on the Scenic Drive, offers a recorded message about life in a Mormon pioneer community.

The Historic Gifford Homestead, 1 mile south on the Scenic Drive, is typical of rural Utah farm-houses of the early 1900s. Cultural demonstrations and handmade sales items are available.

A picnic area near the visitor center provides tables, fire grills, restrooms, drinking water and shade trees.

Bicycles are restricted to maintained roads open to vehicular traffic. A handout available at the visitor center identifies and describes recommended routes.

Fishing is permitted in the Fremont River with a valid Utah fishing license.