We’ve seen this national park described as “cute,” and that actually feels accurate. Capitol Reef seems smaller than Utah’s other national parks because of its lack of viewpoints and exciting hiking trails. Still, it is remarkably beautiful and absolutely worth a half-day visit if you find yourself in southern Utah.
What’s interesting about this park is that it has a little bit of everything. Arches? Sure. Slot canyons? You bet. Pie? Just wait. The challenge is that Capitol Reef isn’t the best of Utah’s national parks at any one feature. (Except for the pie. Capitol Reef has the best pie.) Realistically, you’re going to go to Arches for arches and Zion for slot canyons, so Capitol Reef can get lost in the shuffle. We still really enjoyed this park, though, and we think you will too!
Hickman Bridge
Hikes to Do
Hickman Bridge Trail: This short, relaxing trail offers a good introduction to the park. In just under two miles, you’ll get to see some beautiful scenery and the iconic Hickman Bridge. Take some time at the end of the out-and-back trail to hang out under the bridge, as the size of it really is incredible. We were also surprised to see a very pretty creek just off of this trail considering the seemingly-desert environment. Capitol Reef can be a weird place.
Grand Wash
Grand Wash Trail: This out-and-back trail takes you along a wash (dried creek) through some canyons that get progressively more narrow. If you don’t have two cars, this trail may feel a bit long (4.5 miles) for the views it provides. If you do have two cars, though, we recommend leaving one car parked along the road at the end of the trail. Then, you can take the second car to the trailhead and make it a point-to-point trail that cuts the distance in half. Note that parking at the trailhead is a bit limited, as the more popular Cassidy Arch trail also leaves from this lot. You’ll also have to drive along a graded road for a bit to make it to the lot. Overall, we enjoyed this relaxing, downhill walk and think it is great for families or anyone that may not be in the mood for a more challenging hike.
Apple pie from Gifford Homestead
Where to Eat
Gifford Homestead: Time for pie! You’ll pass this homestead as you make your way back from the Grand Wash trailhead, and it is well worth a stop to reward yourself after a long day of hiking. You won’t regret getting the apple pie – a la mode, of course. Having some desert as you sit outside and enjoy the park’s views is just a great experience.
Capitol Burger: In the nearby town of Torrey is a truly fantastic burger food truck. Check their Facebook page to see where they are planning to park each day. The quality of meat was just awesome, and we really enjoyed the mac-n-cheese burger as well as the mushroom burger. If they park at the Chuck Wagon General Store, you can take the opportunity to pick up some beer and snacks to have with your meal.
Castlerock Coffee: Also in Torrey is a great coffee shop that has some homemade pastries and to-go breakfast options. We recommend trying one of their signature muffins and the breakfast burrito. You can tell all the ingredients are very fresh, so it makes for a great breakfast before a day of hiking.
Panorama Point at Capitol Reef
Other Tips & Tricks
Where to Stay: The small town of Torrey pleasantly surprised us, as it is just outside the park and has everything you could hope for in a remote tourist town. There is a general store, gas station, and a few good, affordable dining options. While in town we stayed at the Red Sands Hotel, and we were pleased with our stay. The hotel is in an ideal location with great views, and there is a fire pit outdoors that’ll let you enjoy the scenery as you relax into the evening.
Cathedral Valley: If you have a high clearance vehicle, you should consider visiting Cathedral Valley. This vast, remote part of Capitol Reef National Park is supposed to be gorgeous and offer some great backcountry camping. We knew we couldn’t make the drive in our Toyota Camry, but we would definitely like to explore this area the next time we visit.
Goblin Valley
Goblin Valley State Park: If you are coming to Capitol Reef from the Moab area or are heading out that way after your visit, consider stopping by Goblin Valley State Park. This really unique park is just over an hour from the eastern end of Capitol Reef, and it is well worth the $20 entrance fee per vehicle. It’s kind of funny how much the various rock formations actually resemble goblins, and it’s wild seeing so many of them packed into a single area. You also can’t appreciate how large each “goblin” is until you’re up close climbing on top of them.