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Capitol Reef

  • Utah

photo: Wolfgang Staudt-CC BY 2.0

Why go there?

Capitol Reef National Park, the least-visited of Utah’s "Mighty Five", is located in Utah's south-central desert in an area historically inhabited by several Indigenous peoples, including the Southern Paiute, Ute, and Navajo tribes. Its prominent feature, the Waterpocket Fold, showcases dramatic rock formations, while petroglyphs and historic orchards add cultural significance. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike along stunning trails, and stargaze in its International Dark Sky Park. Capitol Reef is a nature lover's paradise, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and history.

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See some highlights

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    38°16'11.31"N, 111°14'52.86"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    Tips for Hiking in Capitol Reef National Park

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    Ari and Jessi Adler

    • Hiking

    • Camping

    • Scenic driving

    • Picnicking

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    38°17'5.08"N, 111°7'6.75"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    Free River Camp near Capitol Reef National Park

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    Bink Adventure

    • Backcountry camping

    • Primitive camping

    • Camping

    • River camping

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    38°17'29.23"N, 111°15'43.35"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    5 Things We Love About Capitol Reef NP

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Camping

    • Wildlife viewing

    • Landmarks

    • Hiking

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    38°17'29.23"N, 111°15'43.35"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    5 Things to Hate About Capitol Reef National Park

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Camping

    • Wildlife viewing

    • Visitor center

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    38°17'29.23"N, 111°15'43.35"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    9 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Capitol Reef NP

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Landmarks

    • Camping

    • Wildlife viewing

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    38°10'53.22"N, 111°10'35.58"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    Capitol Reef Trip Planner

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Camping

    • Hiking

    • Visitor center

    • Wildlife viewing

    • Landmarks

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    38°17'7.93"N, 111°14'48.61"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    Best Hikes in Capitol Reef NP

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Hiking

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    38°17'7.93"N, 111°14'48.61"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    The Best of Capitol Reef National Park (Complete Tour)

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Hiking

    • Geology

    • Ranger programs

    • Camping

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    38°17'7.93"N, 111°14'48.61"W

    Capitol Reef

    • Utah

    4 Breathtaking Drives in Capitol Reef National Park

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    We're in the Rockies

    • Scenic driving