🏜️ Canyons & deserts

Capitol Reef National Park

Torrey, UT · Southern Utah

About

Capitol Reef wraps around the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile wrinkle in the earth's crust where white Navajo sandstone domes stack above red cliffs near Torrey. Hike the moderate trail to Hickman Bridge, a 133-foot natural span, then drop into the historic Fruita district to pick apples and peaches from pioneer orchards and grab a pie at the Gifford House. Spring blossoms and fall harvest are the sweetest times to come.

Highlights

The Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile monocline of domes and cliffsHickman Bridge, a 133-foot sandstone natural bridgeThe historic Fruita district and its pick-your-own pioneer orchardsThe 8-mile Scenic Drive and Capitol GorgeFremont culture petroglyphs along Highway 24

Getting there

52 W Headquarters Drive, Torrey, UT 84775

Related places

Zion National Park Canyons & deserts

Zion National Park

Springdale, UT · Southern Utah

Zion National Park is a canyon wonderland in southwest Utah where the Virgin River has carved a deep gorge through towering walls of cream, pink, and red Navajo sandstone. Soaring cliffs, hanging gardens, and slot canyons make it one of the most dramatic and accessible parks in the country, with a free shuttle that carries visitors deep into Zion Canyon. It rewards both casual sightseers and serious adventurers, so it is well worth the trip for almost any traveler.

Arches National Park Canyons & deserts

Arches National Park

Moab, UT · Southern Utah

Arches National Park packs more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches into a compact, otherworldly landscape of red rock fins, balanced boulders, and soaring spires just north of Moab. A single scenic drive and short trails put icons like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch within reach, making it one of the most rewarding national parks for a day visit. Go early or late to dodge midday crowds and catch the glowing light that sets the rock on fire.

Bryce Canyon National Park Canyons & deserts

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon City, UT · Southern Utah

Bryce isn't really a canyon but a string of natural amphitheaters carved into Utah's high plateau, packed with orange hoodoos that catch fire at sunrise. Hike the Navajo Loop down among the spires past Thor's Hammer and Wall Street, or trace the rim past Inspiration and Sunset Points. At over 8,000 feet, this certified Dark Sky Park ranks among the best stargazing in the country.

Part of these collections

Curated guides that feature Capitol Reef National Park.