From the rock art left by the Fremont culture to the pioneer town of Fruita, Capitol Reef is as rich in history as it is in scenery. You can visit the old log schoolhouse and cabins used by the pioneers. You can eat the fruit from the trees planted by Fruita's pioneers as they farmed along the Fremont River.

When you see the canyons, buttes and domes you'll know why the infamous turn-of-the-century outlaw Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch used the area as hideouts. The rugged landscape of Capitol Reef is a maze of brightly colored cliffs and terraces. The nearly impassable ridges were called "reefs" by the pioneers, and the dome-shaped rock formation reminded them of the country's Capitol. Thus, the name Capitol Reef.

Trails explore the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long bulge in the earth's crust that catches thousands of gallons of water each year. Other trails lead to hidden arches, windows and canyons. Remote sections of the park are open to four-wheel drive vehicles. Stop at the visitor center* for maps and information.

Open all year, Capitol Reef is accessible by Scenic Byway 12 from Boulder and along Scenic Byway 24.

Capitol Reef National Park
Torrey, Utah 84775
801-425-3791
* Visitor Center is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.