Capitol Reef National Park Visitors

Waterpocket Fold's dramatic geology.

Nestled in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is a geological wonderland centered around the magnificent 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, a dramatic warp in the Earth's crust. This "wrinkle in time" showcases a stunning tapestry of towering red sandstone cliffs, massive white Navajo Sandstone domes resembling capitol buildings, deep canyons, and natural bridges, all bathed in an ever-changing palette of desert hues. Beyond its breathtaking panoramas, Capitol Reef offers a diverse array of outdoor activities for every adventurer, from scenic drives along the famous Capitol Reef Scenic Drive to immersive hiking trails leading to iconic formations like Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch. Visitors can also enjoy fruit picking in the historic orchards of Fruita, explore ancient petroglyphs left by the Fremont people, backpack into remote canyon systems, or revel in unparalleled stargazing in its certified Dark Sky Preserve, making it a truly unique and serene destination.

Data Source: National Park Service Stats