Scenic Drive
A paved road to Capitol Gorge.
Capitol Reef National Park
A 100-mile wrinkle in the Earth's crust, with red cliffs, Fremont rock art and old Mormon orchards where you can pick fruit.
The Waterpocket Fold rises in striped rock near Fruita, a pioneer settlement. The historic Gifford House sells fresh fruit pies.
It's the quietest of Utah's five national parks.
- Best Time
- April to May, September to October
- Time Needed
- 1 day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- About 3.5 hours south of Salt Lake City.
What to See
2 of 4 are freeFruita Orchards
Pick apples, peaches and cherries in season.
Hickman Bridge
A two-mile trail to a natural arch.
Petroglyphs
Fremont culture rock art by the highway.
Know Before You Go
- Flash floods can close the gorges.
- Fill your tank in Torrey.
- Buy pies early: they sell out.
Where to Stay
Stay in Torrey.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Southwest list.