241,904 acres
Park Size
1,405,353
Annual Visitors
15 mi
Trail Miles
182
Campsites
About Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park encompasses the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long warp in the Earth's crust that formed 50-70 million years ago. The park's name comes from the white Navajo Sandstone domes that resemble the U.S. Capitol building and the rocky reefs that blocked pioneer travel. The historic Fruita settlement contains nearly 3,000 fruit trees that visitors can pick when in season. Cathedral Valley in the northern section features massive sandstone monoliths rising from the desert floor.
Park Highlights
- Waterpocket Fold
- Capitol Dome
- Hickman Bridge
- Fruita Historic District
- Scenic Drive
- Cathedral Valley
Activities
Wildlife
Visitor Information
$20
Entrance Fee
Spring, Fall
Best Seasons
Visitor Tips
- Pick fruit free in Fruita orchards (in season)
- Cathedral Valley requires high-clearance 4WD
- Less crowded than other Utah parks
- Stop at the Gifford Homestead for pie