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The Outdoor Forum
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| The dominant feature of Capitol Reef is the Waterpocket Fold, a giant, 100 mile wrinkle in the Earth's crust created 65 million years ago. There are towering colorful cliffs, cacti, domes and spires, winding canyons, arches, natural bridges, and the red colored Fremont River all against an incredible blue sky and the greenery in Fruita. Although the park gets 750,000 visitors a year, it is serene and the trails are nearly empty. When there is so many other parks and incredible attractions in Utah, this park is easily overlooked as it is not as developed as others but it should not be missed. Next to peaceful, gorgeous hiking, the best thing about Capital Reef is its scenic drives. They offer uncluttered views that are fantastic. The area was once occupied by the Fremont Indians then in the 19th century by Mormon pioneers who created the village of Fruita. Their orchards are still maintained by the parks department and are grazed by mule deer. Apples, peaches, apricots and alfalfa grow here. Some of the settlers buildings still remain. How to Get There: From the east, take I-70 to Utah 24 which leads to the east entrance From the west, take Utah 12 to Utah 24 at Boulder. The nearest airport is Salt Lake City 210 miles away Capital Reef is 145 miles from Moab, Utah where it is a quick trip to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Bryce Canyon is 125 miles and Zion National Park is 192 miles away.
When to Go:
The park is open all year but for hiking, spring and fall are best, it is very hot in summer and you will need to carry a lot of water. The unpaved roads are often flooded in spring and after rains but are otherwise passable.
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Revised:
11/26/07
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