Overrated or Underrated: Is Capitol Reef Worth Visiting Compared to Other Utah National Parks?

When I first heard about Capitol Reef National Park, I’ll admit it wasn’t at the top of my family travel bucket list. Buried away in southern Utah, it seemed to live in the shadow of its more famous neighbors like Zion and Arches. But the allure of a less crowded national park made me wonder, is Capitol Reef worth visiting?

Cut to our family of three chugging along in our 1979 camper to make the drive to Capitol Reef. Did we like it? Yeah, we did.

However, the question of whether Capitol Reef is worth it needs to be delved into a little deeper. It’s not a simple yes or no answer. Capitol Reef offers an experience that feels both raw and inviting. Let me share what makes this place so special—and help you decide if it’s worth adding to your itinerary.

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Is Capitol Reef Worth Visiting Compared to Other Utah Parks?

When it comes to Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—it’s easy for Capitol Reef to get overlooked. It doesn’t have Zion’s dramatic cliffs, Bryce’s whimsical hoodoos, Arches’ iconic formations, or Canyonlands sweeping views. But what Capitol Reef does have is a quieter, more intimate beauty that makes it feel like a well-kept secret.

The Pros of Visiting Capitol Reef

Mom and young son stand on two rocks with hands up in air at Capitol Reef National Park.

Let’s explore some of the top reasons Capitol Reef is worth visiting.

Capitol Reef is far less crowded than its counterparts. While places like Zion can feel like a bustling metropolis during peak season, Capitol Reef offers a sense of solitude that’s increasingly rare in national parks. For reference, in 2023, Zion recorded 4.62 million visitors. In contrast, Capitol Reef welcomed 1.2 million visitors in the same year.

The scenery is beautiful, with its signature Waterpocket Fold—a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust—serving as the park’s centerpiece. Add to that the scenic drives, slot canyons, arches, and the historic Fruita district, and you’ve got a diverse and well-rounded park.

The park has over 2,000 fruit trees, including apple, peach, pear, and cherry varieties. These orchards were initially planted by Mormon settlers in the late 1800s, making them both a historic and natural treasure. If you’re visiting in the ripening season, typically from June through October, you’re free to sample and enjoy the fruit for free! However, there is a self-pay station if you plan to collect a large amount and take it from the orchard. Walking through these orchards, with the backdrop of red rock cliffs, is a peaceful, one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find in any other Utah park.

The homemade pies at Gifford Homestead Store are legendary among visitors. If you aren’t able to visit when the fruit trees are ripe, you can always pop into the historic store for a slice of warm pie—some made from fruit grown in the very orchards you just wandered through. The store is typically open from March to November. If you’ve got a sweet tooth like me, homemade pie seems like a pretty good reason to visit Canyonlands.

Close to Goblin Valley State Park and Wild Horse Canyon. One of the main reasons we love Capitol Reef is that by going out of the way to visit the park, we were able to add a stop at Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon. These fantastic day trips are one of the favorite things we did on our Utah national parks road trip. Excellent for families or the young at heart.

It’s a great park for families. Many of Capitol Reef’s highlights, like the Hickman Bridge trail and the petroglyph panels, are easy to reach and family-friendly. Add the fruit pie and all-you-can-eat fruit trees, and you’ve got one of the best national parks for kids.

The Cons of Visiting Capitol Reef

LIttle boy stands near rocks perched above a windy road in the desert of Capitol Reef National Park.

All that being said, Capitol Reef isn’t for everyone. Here are some reasons why Capitol Reef might not be worth it.

Its remote location means it takes effort to get there, especially compared to Zion or Arches, which are closer to major highways and airports. Capitol Reef is actually closer to Salt Lake City Airport (a major starting point for many people), but it is more of a backroads drive that could deter some. Do some research to see how far out of the way it is for you to visit the park, and make sure to have plenty of gasoline!

Accommodations and dining options are also limited—Torrey is charming but small, so you won’t find the array of lodging choices available near Zion or Arches.

It lacks the “wow” factor that hits you the moment you walk into Zion’s main canyon or stand on the rim of Bryce. It’s not that Capitol Reef isn’t beautiful; it’s just that it’s more understated. It’s a place that reveals itself slowly, rewarding those who take the time to explore.

How Capitol Reef Compares to the “Mighty Five”

If I were to rank Utah’s national parks based purely on icon status, Capitol Reef might not come out on top. But if I were ranking them based on peace, quiet, and a sense of connection with nature, Capitol Reef might just take first place. It’s a park that invites you to linger, to drive slowly along its scenic roads, to hike trails that aren’t packed with other visitors, and to savor a slice of pie under a shady tree in Fruita.

For those who love adventure, the park’s backcountry is as wild and rugged as anything you’ll find in Canyonlands. And for history buffs, the blend of ancient petroglyphs and Mormon pioneer history adds a fascinating layer you won’t find in parks like Arches or Bryce.

Ultimately, Capitol Reef doesn’t try to compete with the grandeur of its neighbors—it offers something for the traveler who wants to take the road less traveled, and in my opinion, that makes Capitol Reef worth visiting.

Top Attractions in Capitol Reef

A slot canyon in Capitol Reef National Park — *The Grand Wash Trail*

Capitol Reef Scenic Drive: The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is a great introduction to the park. This paved 7.9-mile route that includes two dirt spur roads (Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge) leads through the heart of the park and is a visual feast of vibrant red cliffs, sprawling desert, and fascinating rock formations. It’s well worth taking the spur roads since they take you deeper into the canyon and to great day hikes.

Cathedral Valley: For those seeking backcountry adventure, exploring the remote wonderland of the Cathedral Valley is a must-do. Reaching this area requires some effort, as the 57-mile driving loop includes dirt roads, river crossings, and rugged terrain. However, the reward includes breathtaking sights like The Temple of the Sun and Moon and the Bentonite Hills. Entering the Cathedral Valley requires advance planning and a permit if you are camping overnight.

Cassidy Arch Trail: A 3.4-mile roundtrip trail that ascends steeply to one of Capitol Reef’s most iconic features. The arch is named after outlaw Butch Cassidy, who is rumored to have hidden in the area. The trail is a good workout with a 685-foot elevation gain and steep switchbacks. The payoff is worth it since you can stand atop Cassidy Arch and gaze at the canyon below.

Lilttle boy playing under arch formations at Capitol Reef National Park. — *The hike to Hickman Bridge is an excellent trail for families.*

Hickman Bridge Trail: A 1.8-mile roundtrip hike to one of the park’s most accessible and beautiful natural features: Hickman Bridge, a massive stone arch spanning 133 feet—a great hike for families or for anyone who wants a quick hike with big rewards. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Fremont River and the Capitol Dome.

Grand Wash Trail: A 4.4-mile roundtrip hike through a wide slot canyon with walls towering hundreds of feet above. The canyon narrows as you progress, offering a surreal and humbling perspective.

Fruita District: The historic hub of Capitol Reef is home to lush orchards, historic pioneer buildings, and the famous Gifford Homestead. It’s a charming contrast to the rugged beauty of the park.

Planning A Visit To Capitol Reef National Park

A barn and horse in the distance at Capitol Reef National Park. — *The Fruita District*

Best Time To Visit

When planning a trip to Capitol Reef, timing is everything. From a weather perspective, the best time to visit is typically in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is mild during these months, with daytime highs ranging from the 60s to 80s, making it perfect for hiking and exploring. Summer can be intensely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter brings cooler temperatures, sometimes dipping below freezing at night.

That said, spring and fall are when Capitol Reef gets the most visitors, though it’s far less crowded than Utah’s more famous parks like Zion and Arches. Mornings and weekdays are the best times to explore if you want to avoid crowds.

We visited in early March and had a fantastic time. The air was crisp but never uncomfortable since we were prepared with layers to take off and on as needed. The downside is that we didn’t experience the Gifford Homestead Store or the fruit orchards.

Where To Stay

Vintage camper on scenic road in Capitol Reef National Park.

Options for accommodations are somewhat limited, given Capitol Reef’s remote location. If you prefer staying in the park, the Fruita Campground is an idyllic campsite located close to the water with shaded sites surrounded by fruit trees. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

For those who prefer a hotel, the nearby town of Torrey offers a handful of options, from rustic motels to cozy inns. Torrey is a 15-minute drive to the Visitor Center, making it a great starting point. You can check out highly rated hotels in Torrey here.

When we visited, we stayed one night at Hanksville, a great middle point between Goblin Valley State Park and Capitol Reef. We stayed at an RV park, but Muddy Creek Mining Company is a good option for anyone who needs a hotel room.

TIP: If you want to explore Utah in a camper or campervan, we suggest using sites like Outdoorsy, Native Campervans, and Escape Campervans. Most campervan rentals have hubs in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.

What to Bring

Man walks toward the camera on a desert red sand trail in Capitol Reef National Park. — *In early March, we were comfortable hiking in long-sleeved shirts. Bring layers!*

Thorough preparation can turn a potentially challenging outing into a truly enjoyable adventure. Be sure to pack these essential items for your trip to Capitol Reef:

America The Beautiful Pass: If you visit several Utah national parks or other national parks within a year, opt for an America The Beautiful Pass to save money. You can learn more and purchase it here.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Essential for navigating rocky trails and uneven terrain. I think waterproof shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty are best since the canyon floor can often be muddy and wet.
Plenty of Water: The desert environment can dehydrate you quickly; bring a reusable water bottle like this or a hydration pack.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to shield against the intense sun.
Snacks and Meals: High-energy snacks like trail mix or protein bars and packed meals if you plan on being out for a full day.
Layers of Clothing: Mornings and evenings can be cool, even in summer, so pack a light jacket or fleece sweater.
Trail Map or Guidebook: Cell service is unreliable in many areas; a physical map can help you stay on track. A trail map like this one from National Geographic is great for anyone venturing off beyond the well-worn trails.
Daypack: To carry all your essentials while exploring the park.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for early starts, late finishes, or exploring darker areas like slot canyons.
Reusable Bags or Containers: For carrying out all trash and leaving no trace.