The notebook of Capitol Reef
Seek beauty in the lines of the terrain.
Long rocky fold, historic orchards and little frequented canyons.
At your own pace
Identity summary
2 to 5 days
Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Recommended car
Desert · Heritage · Nature
Variable accessibility
Sweet rhythm
General presentation
Capitol Reef
Long rocky fold, historic orchards and little frequented canyons.
The discovery of Capitol Reef revolves around Waterpocket Fold, Capitol Gorge and Fruita Historic District. The stay thus alternates between desert areas, heritage and natural areas, giving a concrete picture of the destination beyond its only best known site.
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For a stay of 2 to 5 days, a quiet rhythm works well. Also to be anticipated: conditions to be checked according to the season. A car is usually the easiest way to connect different sectors. Accessibility varies from site to site and deserves to be checked step by step.
Strengths and constraints
Strengths
- Waterpocket Fold
- Capitol Gorge
- Fruita Historic District
Before you choose
- Car often useful
- Conditions to be checked by season
Places worth visiting
A selection to start dreaming and organizing the stay — not an exhaustive list of everything there is to see.
Place indismissible
Waterpocket Fold
The Waterpocket Fold is the long geological wrinkle that gives to Capitol Reef Its special relief: pleated layers, cliffs, clear domes and dry canyons. The park's roads and paths reveal successive fragments, as if it were moving along a pound of open rock in the desert.
Culture and heritage
Capitol Gorge
Capitol Gorge is a narrow canyon where the old road passed between almost vertical sandstone walls. There are still inscriptions of pioneers, petroglyphs in the neighbouring area and pockets of water dug in the rock; the walk is well suited to those who like to feel history in the landscape.
Culture and heritage
Fruita Historic District
Fruita Historic District is surprised by its orchards, rural buildings and green meadows at the foot of the cliffs of Capitol Reef. The ancient Mormon village maintains a rare agricultural atmosphere in this mineral setting, with fruit trees, a historic school and the Gifford House, known for its local pies and products.
Nature and panorama
Hickman Bridge
Hickman Bridge is a natural arch that is accessible by a trail that climbs over the Fremont River before crossing slabs, junipers and sandstone blocks. The arch appears as a massive opening in the rock, close enough to observe its texture and high enough to frame the sky of the canyon.
Practical tips
This information helps know if the destination matches the planned trip before starting a fuller search.
To go further
More activities
Restaurants, walks, culture, leisure and outings to search without leaving the destination card.
The nearest destinations
The closest ideas on the map, to extend your trip.
Similar destinations
Same landscapes and the same pace of travel, elsewhere in the world.
