Utah is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. Home to towering red rock formations, deep canyons, and scenic trails, the Best National Parks in Utah provide the perfect escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. From hiking iconic trails like Angels Landing in Zion to marveling at the surreal hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, these parks offer a mix of thrilling adventures and serene beauty. Visiting Arches’ famous rock formations or experiencing the remote wonders of Canyonlands, each park promises an unforgettable journey into nature’s finest creations.
Here we will know, the Best National Parks in Utah, covering essential details like locations, distances, things to do, opening hours, entrance fees, and tips for visitors.
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Arches National Park
- Canyonlands National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
Zion National Park: A Breathtaking Adventure in Utah
Location and Accessibility
Zion National Park is situated in Springdale, Utah, within the southwestern region of the state. It is approximately 300 miles south of Salt Lake City, making it a 4.5-hour drive from the state’s capital. The park is easily accessible via Interstate 15, followed by a series of well-maintained highways leading into Springdale, the gateway town to Zion.
Travelers coming from Las Vegas, Nevada, can reach Zion National Park in about 2.5 hours, making it a popular weekend getaway. The nearest major airport is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, followed by Salt Lake City International Airport. Visitors arriving by air can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the park. Public transportation options are available, but driving provides the most flexibility for exploring Zion and nearby attractions.
Upon arrival, visitors enter through the South Entrance in Springdale, which leads to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, the main hub for information, permits, and shuttle services. The East Entrance, accessible via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, offers a scenic route through stunning rock formations and natural tunnels. Those traveling from the north can use the Kolob Canyons Entrance, which leads to a quieter, less crowded section of the park.
Top Things to Do in Zion National Park
1. Hike Angels Landing – A Challenging Yet Rewarding Adventure
One of the most iconic and exhilarating hikes in the United States, Angels Landing, offers a thrilling ascent to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. The trail spans 5.4 miles round trip, featuring steep switchbacks, narrow ridges, and a final section with chains bolted into the rock for added support. The elevation gain of 1,488 feet makes this hike physically demanding, requiring both stamina and a good sense of balance.
Hikers begin at The Grotto Trailhead, following the West Rim Trail up a steep incline known as Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 tight switchbacks that lead to Scout Lookout. From this point, the most challenging section begins, as hikers must traverse a narrow rock ridge with sheer drop-offs on both sides. Chains are provided for stability, but those with a fear of heights should proceed with caution.
Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with unmatched panoramic views of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the towering red rock formations below. The best time to attempt this hike is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat and heavy crowds. Due to its popularity, the National Park Service requires a permit to hike Angels Landing, ensuring better crowd management and safety for visitors.
2. Enjoy The Narrows – A Unique Water Hike Through a Slot Canyon
Seeking a one-of-a-kind hiking experience, The Narrows offers an unforgettable trek through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls that rise up to 1,000 feet high. Traditional trails, The Narrows requires hikers to walk through water, with depths ranging from ankle-deep to waist-high, depending on recent rainfall and water flow.
Adventure begins at the Temple of Sinawava, where visitors follow the Riverside Walk Trail before entering the river itself. There are two main ways to hike The Narrows:
- Bottom-Up Route allows hikers to go as far as they want and return the same way without requiring a permit. Most visitors hike up to Orderville Canyon, a stunning narrow section, before turning back.
- Top-Down Route is a 16-mile journey from Chamberlain’s Ranch and requires a permit. This full-day or overnight adventure offers a more immersive experience but is only recommended for experienced hikers.
Proper gear is essential for this hike, as the riverbed consists of slippery rocks and strong currents. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy water shoes, bring trekking poles for balance, and pack dry bags to protect their belongings. The best time to hike The Narrows is late spring to early fall, when water temperatures are more comfortable and the risk of flash floods is lower.
3. Take a Scenic Drive – Stunning Views Without the Hike
For those who prefer to experience Zion’s beauty without extensive hiking, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers a spectacular journey through the park’s most iconic landscapes. This six-mile road winds through towering sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, and dramatic rock formations, making it one of the most breathtaking drives in the U.S.
Some of the most famous landmarks along this route include:
- Court of the Patriarchs, a trio of towering sandstone peaks named after biblical figures.
- Big Bend, a dramatic curve in the Virgin River with stunning photo opportunities.
- The Great White Throne, a massive rock formation that dominates the skyline.
- Weeping Rock, a unique geological feature where water seeps through the rock face, creating a lush, hanging garden.
During the spring, summer, and fall months, private vehicles are restricted, and visitors must use the free shuttle system to reduce traffic congestion and protect the park’s ecosystem. In winter, when the shuttle is not in operation, visitors can drive their own vehicles along the scenic route, enjoying a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
4. Wildlife Viewing – Encounter Zion’s Natural Inhabitants
Zion National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The park’s varied landscapes, from lush riverbanks to high desert plateaus, support an array of mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Some of the most commonly spotted animals include:
- Mule deer, often seen grazing in open meadows during early mornings and evenings.
- Desert bighorn sheep, known for their impressive curved horns, which can be spotted on rocky cliffs.
- Rock squirrels, frequently seen darting across trails and picnic areas.
- Peregrine falcons, one of the fastest birds in the world, soaring high above the canyon walls.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife viewing, as animals are most active during these cooler hours. Visitors are encouraged to observe from a distance and avoid feeding wildlife, as human interaction can disrupt natural behaviors.
Park Information and Entrance Fees
Zion National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing visitors to its landscapes at any time. Some trails may close seasonally due to weather conditions, such as flash floods in The Narrows or icy pathways on higher-elevation trails.
Entrance fee for Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle, which grants access for seven consecutive days. Those entering on foot or by bicycle pay $20 per person. Visitors who plan to visit multiple national parks throughout the year can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which provides access to all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation sites.
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
Best seasons to visit Zion are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, making midday hikes strenuous. Winters bring occasional snowfall, creating a unique, quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Bryce Canyon National Park: A Wonderland of Hoodoos and Night Skies
Location and Accessibility
Bryce Canyon National Park is located in Bryce, Utah, in the southwestern region of the state. It is approximately 270 miles south of Salt Lake City, making it about a 4-hour drive from Utah’s capital. The park is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 89 and Utah State Route 12, both of which offer scenic drives through red rock landscapes, forests, and plateaus before reaching the park entrance.
Those traveling from Las Vegas, Nevada, the drive takes about 4.5 hours, making it a popular road trip destination. The nearest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport and McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. From either airport, visitors can rent a car or join a guided tour to Bryce Canyon and nearby national parks like Zion and Capitol Reef.
Visitors enter the park through the main entrance on Highway 63, leading to the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, where they can obtain maps, permits, and trail information. The park features a well-maintained road system, with multiple scenic overlooks, hiking trailheads, and shuttle stops providing access to Bryce Canyon’s unique geological wonders.
Top Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
1. Hike the Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden Trail – Journey Through Hoodoo Wonderland
One of the most spectacular and popular hikes in Bryce Canyon, the Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden Trail, offers an unforgettable journey through towering hoodoos, narrow slot canyons, and breathtaking rock formations. The 3-mile loop combines two of the best trails in the park, providing an up-close view of Bryce Canyon’s unique geological wonders.
Hike begins at Sunrise Point, descending into the Queen’s Garden, an area known for its fairy tale-like rock spires resembling castle turrets. The most famous formation in this section is Queen Victoria, a hoodoo that remarkably resembles a regal statue. As hikers continue along the loop, they encounter twisting sandstone passageways, towering cliffs, and striking red, orange, and pink hues reflecting the sunlight.
Navajo Loop portion of the trail takes hikers through Wall Street, the only slot canyon in Bryce Canyon, featuring steep, narrow passageways lined with tall Douglas fir trees growing between the towering rock walls. One of the most iconic sights on this trail is Thor’s Hammer, a striking hoodoo resembling a hammer perched atop a narrow column.
While the hike is moderate in difficulty, it includes steep switchbacks and an elevation change of about 600 feet, making it somewhat challenging for beginners. The best time to hike is early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and the sunlight enhances the stunning colors of the canyon. Winter hiking is also possible, but visitors should be prepared for snow and icy conditions.
2. Stargazing – Experience One of the Darkest Skies in the U.S.
Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its incredibly dark skies, making it one of the best stargazing locations in the United States. Due to its high elevation (up to 9,000 feet), remote location, and minimal light pollution, Bryce Canyon offers an unobstructed view of thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and distant galaxies.
Park hosts Ranger-led astronomy programs, where visitors can learn about constellations, planets, and deep-space objects through powerful telescopes. The Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival, held annually, attracts stargazing enthusiasts from around the world and features expert talks, telescope viewing, and night sky photography workshops.
Those who prefer a self-guided experience, some of the best spots for stargazing include:
- Inspiration Point – Offers a high vantage point with panoramic views of the night sky.
- Bryce Amphitheater – A surreal experience as the stars illuminate the hoodoos below.
- Rainbow Point – Located at the highest elevation in the park, providing a completely unobstructed celestial view.
Best time for stargazing is during a new moon, when the sky is at its darkest. Visitors are encouraged to bring warm clothing, blankets, and red-light flashlights to preserve night vision.
3. Witness Sunrise at Sunrise Point – A Magical Start to the Day
One of the most breathtaking experiences in Bryce Canyon is watching the sunrise at Sunrise Point. As the first rays of morning light illuminate the landscape, the amphitheater of hoodoos glows in vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, creating an unforgettable sight.
Sunrise Point is one of the easiest overlooks to access, requiring only a short walk from the parking area. It provides a sweeping view of the Bryce Amphitheater, with famous formations like Thor’s Hammer, Silent City, and the Queen’s Garden visible in the distance.
For the best experience, visitors should arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise, allowing time to find a good viewing spot and enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere. Photographers often capture some of the most stunning images during this time, as the changing light enhances the dramatic textures of the rock formations.
4. Horseback Riding – Bryce Canyon on a Scenic Trail Ride
For a unique and unforgettable way to experience Bryce Canyon, horseback riding offers an authentic Wild West adventure through the park’s stunning landscapes. Guided horse and mule rides take visitors along scenic trails, allowing them to areas not accessible by foot.
Tours typically follow routes through Canyon Trail, Peekaboo Loop, and the Bryce Amphitheater, providing close-up views of towering hoodoos, deep canyons, and rugged desert terrain. Riding through these landscapes offers a different perspective, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of Bryce Canyon without the strain of hiking.
Rides are available for all experience levels, with 1.5-hour and 3-hour guided tours offered by licensed outfitters. Summer and fall are the best seasons for horseback riding, as trails are dry and temperatures are comfortable. Winter rides may be available, but riders should be prepared for cold weather and possible snowfall.
Park Information and Entrance Fees
Bryce Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing visitors to visit its landscapes at any time. Seasonal changes dramatically alter the scenery, with snow-covered hoodoos in winter and lush greenery contrasting with red rock formations in summer.
Entrance fee for Bryce Canyon is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days. Those entering on foot or by bicycle pay $20 per person. Visitors planning to multiple national parks can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which grants access to all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation sites.
Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park
Best seasons to visit are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and the scenery is vibrant. Summer is the busiest season, with daytime temperatures ranging from 70-80°F, making it ideal for hiking but also attracting larger crowds.
Winter visits offer a magical experience, with snow creating a striking contrast against the red rock formations. Some trails may be icy or closed, and temperatures can drop well below freezing. Visitors should check weather conditions and road closures before planning a winter trip.
Arches National Park: Majestic Land of Natural Stone Arches
Location and Accessibility
Arches National Park is located in southeastern Utah, just 5 miles north of Moab, a popular base for exploring the region’s stunning desert landscapes. It is approximately 230 miles from Salt Lake City, making it a 3.5-hour drive along scenic highways that cut through Utah’s rugged terrain.
The park is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 191, which leads directly to the Arches National Park entrance station. Visitors traveling from Denver, Colorado, can reach the park in about 5.5 hours, while those coming from Las Vegas, Nevada, can expect a 6.5-hour drive.
Nearest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), just 16 miles from the park entrance, offering regional flights. However, most travelers fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) in Colorado and then drive to the park. Moab also serves as a gateway town, providing accommodations, restaurants, and outdoor adventure outfitters for visitors.
Top Things to Do in Arches National Park
1. Visit Delicate Arch – Utah’s Most Iconic Natural Landmark
Delicate Arch is the most famous and photographed arch in Arches National Park, serving as a symbol of Utah and even appearing on the state’s license plates. Standing 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, this freestanding arch is a geological marvel, formed by millions of years of erosion, wind, and weathering.
To reach Delicate Arch, visitors must embark on a 3-mile round-trip hike that begins at the Wolfe Ranch trailhead. The hike is moderately challenging, with a steady elevation gain of 480 feet, including sections of exposed rock and steep inclines. Despite the effort required, the reward at the summit is breathtaking—a spectacular, unobstructed view of Delicate Arch with the La Sal Mountains in the background.
For the best experience, visitors should plan to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the midday sun can be intense. Sunset is the most popular time to visit, as the arch glows in deep red and orange hues, creating an unforgettable scene for photographers and nature lovers alike.
For those who prefer a less strenuous way to see Delicate Arch, the Delicate Arch Viewpoint provides a distant but scenic perspective without the need for a long hike.
2. Drive the Arches Scenic Road – Journey Through 2,000 Natural Stone Arches
Arches Scenic Road is a 19-mile paved route that winds through the park, offering access to many of its most famous rock formations and viewpoints. This scenic drive allows visitors to see a vast number of arches, pinnacles, and sandstone formations without extensive hiking, making it perfect for those with limited time or mobility.
Along the drive, there are multiple pull-offs and short trails that lead to incredible geological formations, including:
- Balanced Rock – A massive boulder precariously perched atop a slender rock column, defying gravity.
- The Windows Section – Home to North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch, some of the largest and most accessible arches in the park.
- Double Arch – A stunning pair of natural arches connected at their base, offering a unique and photogenic sight.
- Fiery Furnace Viewpoint – An intricate maze of narrow sandstone canyons and towering rock formations, best explored with a ranger-guided tour.
Driving the Arches Scenic Road takes about 1.5 to 2 hours without stops, but most visitors spend several hours exploring different viewpoints and trails. The road is open year-round, but visitors should be aware of summer heat, occasional road closures in winter due to snow, and heavy traffic during peak seasons.
3. Hike Devil’s Garden Trail – A Thrilling Trek to Landscape Arch and Beyond
For those seeking a challenging and rewarding hike, the Devil’s Garden Trail is a must-do. This 7.9-mile loop trail offers a mix of easy, moderate, and strenuous sections, featuring several remarkable arches and rock formations along the way.
The trail begins at the Devil’s Garden Trailhead, leading first to Landscape Arch, one of the most famous arches in the park. Spanning 290 feet, it is the longest natural arch in North America and appears incredibly thin and delicate, with erosion gradually wearing it down.
For those who continue beyond Landscape Arch, the trail becomes more rugged and adventurous, requiring rock scrambling and navigating narrow ledges. Some of the highlights along this section include:
- Partition Arch – A lesser-known arch that offers stunning views of the surrounding desert.
- Navajo Arch – A beautiful, hidden arch tucked within the sandstone formations.
- Double O Arch – A unique stacked arch formation that looks like two connected circles.
Devil’s Garden Trail is best hiked in the morning or late afternoon, especially in summer when temperatures can exceed 100°F. Visitors should carry plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and be prepared for steep inclines and exposed terrain.
4. Photography – Capture Arches National Park’s Breathtaking Scenery
Arches National Park is a photographer’s paradise, offering dramatic rock formations, vibrant desert landscapes, and stunning light conditions throughout the day. The best times for photography are sunrise and sunset, when the soft golden light enhances the deep reds and oranges of the sandstone.
Some of the best photography locations include:
- Delicate Arch at Sunset – The ultimate spot for capturing the park’s most famous landmark.
- Balanced Rock at Sunrise – The early morning light creates a beautiful contrast between the rock formation and the sky.
- Turret Arch Through North Window – A classic composition where one arch frames another.
- Fiery Furnace at Golden Hour – The intricate maze of rock fins glows brilliantly in the warm evening light.
For night photographers, Arches National Park is also an excellent location for astrophotography. The dark skies, minimal light pollution, and high elevation make it possible to capture stunning images of the Milky Way, constellations, and meteor showers.
Park Information and Entrance Fees
Arches National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing visitors to at any time. Seasonal variations change the landscape dramatically, with hot summers, mild autumns, cool springs, and occasional snowfall in winter.
The entrance fee for the park is $30 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days. Those entering on foot or by bicycle pay $15 per person. Visitors who plan to visit multiple national parks can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, granting access to all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation areas.
Best Time to Visit Arches National Park
The best seasons to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures range from 50-80°F, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Summer brings intense heat, with daytime highs often exceeding 100°F, making hiking dangerous during midday hours.
Winter visits offer a unique experience, as occasional snow contrasts beautifully with the red rock formations, but visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures, icy trails, and potential road closures.
Canyonlands National Park: Vast Desert Wonderland of Canyons and Mesas
Location and Accessibility
Canyonlands National Park is located in southeastern Utah, just about 32 miles from Moab, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region. It is approximately 250 miles from Salt Lake City, requiring a 4-hour drive through Utah’s scenic highways and rugged landscapes.
Travelers coming from Denver, Colorado, can reach the park in about 6 hours, while those driving from Las Vegas, Nevada, can expect a 7-hour journey. The nearest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), just 20 miles from the park, but most visitors fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) before making the drive.
The park is divided into four districts:
- Island in the Sky – The most accessible and popular district, featuring scenic drives, overlooks, and short hikes.
- The Needles – A remote and rugged area known for its unique rock formations and challenging hiking trails.
- The Maze – One of the most isolated and difficult-to-reach areas, requiring off-road vehicles and expert navigation skills.
- The Rivers (Colorado & Green Rivers) – A fantastic area for rafting and kayaking through breathtaking red rock canyons.
Each district has its own entrance, and no roads connect them directly, so visitors should plan ahead depending on their interests.
Top Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
1. Island in the Sky Scenic Drive – Panoramic Views of Endless Canyons
The Island in the Sky district offers one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the Southwest. This 34-mile paved route winds along the edge of a massive plateau, offering unmatched panoramic views of the surrounding canyons, mesas, and rock formations.
Several must-stop viewpoints along the route include:
- Shafer Canyon Overlook – A dramatic viewpoint overlooking a series of winding dirt roads and steep cliffs.
- Green River Overlook – A stunning vista where visitors can see the Green River carving its way through the canyonlands.
- Grand View Point – One of the most famous overlooks, offering an expansive view of the maze of canyons, cliffs, and the distant La Sal Mountains.
- Buck Canyon Overlook – A striking viewpoint showcasing deep canyons and geological formations shaped by millions of years of erosion.
The Island in the Sky Scenic Drive is ideal for visitors who prefer sightseeing without extensive hiking, as most overlooks require only a short walk from the parking areas. The road is accessible year-round, but visitors should be cautious during winter months when snow and ice can make driving hazardous.
2. Hike to Mesa Arch – Short but Iconic Trail with Unparalleled Views
The Mesa Arch Trail is one of the most famous hikes in Canyonlands National Park, offering a quick yet rewarding adventure. This 0.6-mile loop trail is relatively easy, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
Highlight of the trail is Mesa Arch itself, a beautiful natural rock arch perched on the edge of a towering cliff. From the arch, visitors can witness a jaw-dropping view of the canyons, rock spires, and distant mountain peaks. The arch frames the La Sal Mountains and Buck Canyon, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in the park.
For the best experience, visitors should arrive at sunrise. The morning light illuminates the arch from below, casting a warm glow and creating a stunning contrast against the rugged landscape. Photographers from around the world gather here to capture the perfect shot, so arriving early helps secure a good spot.
Despite being a short and easy hike, the Mesa Arch Trail can be busy, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon helps avoid crowds.
3. Rafting on the Colorado River – An Exhilarating Whitewater Adventure
For those seeking a thrilling and unforgettable experience, rafting on the Colorado River is a must. The river carves its way through deep canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and remote desert landscapes, offering an adventure like no other.
There are two main rafting experiences available in Canyonlands National Park:
- Calm Water Floats – A scenic and peaceful rafting experience through Labyrinth Canyon and Stillwater Canyon, perfect for families and beginners. These sections feature gentle waters, breathtaking rock formations, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Whitewater Rapids (Cataract Canyon) – For adrenaline seekers, the Cataract Canyon section of the Colorado River offers some of the most powerful rapids in the Southwest, especially during spring runoff season. Rafters can navigate Class III-V rapids, experiencing huge waves, fast currents, and thrilling drops.
Guided rafting tours are available through licensed outfitters in Moab, offering single-day or multi-day trips. Multi-day rafting excursions allow visitors to camp along the riverbanks, hidden side canyons, and enjoy remote desert solitude.
4. Backcountry Camping – True Wilderness Experience
For those seeking solitude, adventure, and a deep connection with nature, backcountry camping in Canyonlands is an incredible experience. Unlike traditional campgrounds, backcountry camping requires a permit and offers a chance to sleep under a sky filled with countless stars.
Some of the best backcountry camping areas include:
- The Needles District – A remote and rugged area with stunning rock formations, hidden arches, and challenging hiking trails.
- The Maze District – One of the most isolated and difficult-to-reach areas in the park, perfect for experienced campers looking for a true wilderness adventure.
- White Rim Road – A famous 100-mile off-road route offering designated camping spots along towering canyon walls and breathtaking overlooks.
Campers should be fully prepared for the harsh desert environment, bringing plenty of water, navigation tools, and proper gear for extreme temperatures.
Park Information and Entrance Fees
Canyonlands National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing visitors to at their convenience. Each season offers a unique experience, with spring and fall providing the best weather conditions for outdoor activities.
Entrance fee for the park is $30 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days. Those entering on foot or by bicycle pay $15 per person. Visitors planning to multiple national parks can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which grants access to all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation areas for one year.
Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park
Ideal time to visit Canyonlands is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures range from 50-80°F, making hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures more comfortable.
- Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F, making outdoor activities dangerous during midday hours.
- Winter (December-February) offers a unique and peaceful experience, with snow-dusted canyons and fewer visitors, but visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures, icy trails, and possible road closures.
Capitol Reef National Park: A Hidden Place in Utah’s Red Rock Country
Location and Accessibility
Capitol Reef National Park is a stunning and often overlooked national park in south-central Utah, near the town of Torrey. It is located approximately 200 miles from Salt Lake City, making it a three-hour drive through some of Utah’s most scenic landscapes.
Park lies along Highway 24, making it one of the more accessible national parks in Utah, yet it remains less crowded compared to Arches and Zion. The nearest airport is in Salt Lake City (SLC), while smaller regional airports in Cedar City and Grand Junction, Colorado, provide additional options for travelers.
Capitol Reef is known for its unique geological formations, towering red rock cliffs, and remnants of early pioneer settlements. Unlike some national parks that have distinct sections, Capitol Reef is centered around the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust that creates breathtaking landscapes of rock domes, arches, and deep canyons.
Top Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
1. Visit the Scenic Drive – A Picture-Perfect 8-Mile Route
The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is an 8-mile paved road that winds through some of the park’s most spectacular landscapes. Along this stunningly picturesque route, visitors will pass towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and dramatic rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion.
Some highlights along the Scenic Drive include:
- Chimney Rock – A towering rock spire standing against a backdrop of colorful cliffs.
- The Castle – A dramatic rock formation resembling a fortress, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park.
- Grand Wash – A narrow canyon with towering walls, accessible via a short and easy hiking trail.
- Capitol Gorge – A scenic area where visitors can see pioneer inscriptions etched into the rock walls.
The Scenic Drive is accessible year-round, though some dirt roads branching off the main route may be impassable after heavy rain or snow. Visitors are encouraged to check road conditions before venturing out.
2. Hike Hickman Bridge Trail – Must-Do Adventure to a Natural Bridge
The Hickman Bridge Trail is one of Capitol Reef’s most popular hikes, offering a moderate 1.8-mile round-trip journey to an impressive natural stone bridge.
This hike is ideal for visitors who want to experience the park’s incredible rock formations without embarking on a strenuous trek. The trail features breathtaking views of the Fremont River, colorful sandstone cliffs, and ancient petroglyphs carved by Native American tribes.
At the end of the trail, visitors will find Hickman Bridge, a massive 133-foot-long natural bridge that has been formed over thousands of years by erosion. The area around the bridge offers excellent photo opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow on the rock face.
While the trail has some elevation gain, it is considered family-friendly and manageable for most hikers. Hikers should bring plenty of water, as there is little shade along the route.
3. Visit the Fruita Historic District – A Step Back in Time
One of the most unique and charming aspects of Capitol Reef is the Fruita Historic District, a preserved pioneer settlement dating back to the 1800s.
Fruita was originally settled by Mormon pioneers, who took advantage of the fertile soil along the Fremont River to plant fruit orchards. Today, visitors can the historic schoolhouse, the old Gifford Homestead, and remnants of the pioneer way of life.
A must-do activity in Fruita is visiting the Fruita Orchards, where visitors can pick and eat fresh fruit right off the trees during harvest season. The orchards grow a variety of fruits, including apples, peaches, apricots, pears, and cherries.
Another highlight is the Gifford House Store and Museum, where visitors can enjoy homemade fruit pies, jams, and locally made crafts. The apple pie is especially famous and a perfect treat after a long hike.
Wildlife is also commonly seen in the Fruita area, including deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds. The Fremont River runs through the valley, adding to the scenic beauty of this peaceful location.
4. Drive Cathedral Valley – Remote Off-Road Adventure
For those looking for a true backcountry experience, Cathedral Valley is a must-visit. This remote and rugged area of Capitol Reef features some of the most unique and striking rock formations in the park.
The Cathedral Valley Loop is a 58-mile dirt road adventure, accessible only by high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. Visitors embarking on this drive will be rewarded with views of towering monoliths, surreal landscapes, and complete solitude.
Key landmarks along the Cathedral Valley route include:
- Temple of the Sun and Moon – Two massive sandstone monoliths rising dramatically from the desert floor.
- Glass Mountain – A fascinating crystal-like formation made of gypsum.
- Gypsum Sinkhole – A large depression formed by the collapse of underground rock layers.
- Upper and Lower Cathedral Valley – Stunning panoramic views of towering rock formations.
Due to the rough terrain and remote location, visitors should carry extra water, fuel, and emergency supplies when exploring Cathedral Valley. It is recommended to check weather conditions beforehand, as heavy rain can make some sections impassable.
Park Information and Entrance Fees
Capitol Reef National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing visitors to at their own pace. The park experiences fewer crowds compared to other Utah national parks, making it a great destination for those seeking peace and solitude in nature.
Entrance fee for the park is $20 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days. Visitors entering on foot or by bicycle pay $10 per person. Those planning to multiple national parks can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which provides access to all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation areas for a full year.
Best Time to Visit Capitol Reef National Park
Best time to visit Capitol Reef is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures range from 50-80°F, making hiking and sightseeing more comfortable.
- Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures exceeding 100°F, especially in exposed areas with little shade. Visitors should bring plenty of water and sun protection during this time.
- Winter (December-February) offers a quiet and peaceful experience, with snow occasionally dusting the red rock formations, creating stunning contrasts in the landscape. However, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, and some roads may become icy or impassable.
FAQs
1. Are Utah national parks open year-round?
Yes, all five parks are open year-round, but some trails and roads may close in winter.
2. Is summer a good time to visit Utah’s national parks?
Summer (June-August) can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C), but it’s still popular.
3. What is the best national park in Utah to visit in winter?
Bryce Canyon looks stunning in winter with snow-covered hoodoos and fewer crowds.
4. What should I pack for visiting Utah’s national parks?
Pack hiking boots, water, sun protection, layers, and a map, especially for remote areas like Canyonlands.
5. Do I need a 4WD vehicle for Utah’s national parks?
Most parks have paved roads, but some areas in Canyonlands and Capitol Reef require a 4WD.
6. Can I visit multiple Utah national parks in one trip?
Yes! Many travelers do a Mighty Five road trip in 7-10 days to see all five parks.
7. Which Utah national park is closest to Salt Lake City?
Arches National Park is about 3.5 hours from Salt Lake City.
8. Are there shuttle services in Utah’s national parks?
Zion National Park has a mandatory shuttle system from spring to fall to reduce congestion.
9. Do I need a permit to visit Utah’s national parks?
A park entrance fee is required, and some hikes (like Angels Landing) require a permit.
10. Can I visit Utah’s national parks for free?
Yes! The National Park Service offers free entry days on select dates, like National Park Week in April.
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