Capitol Reef National Park: Hidden Gems and Scenic Drives

Nestled in the heart of Southern Utah's red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse ecosystems, this park offers visitors something similar to many landmarks in Southern Utah - a unique and unforgettable experience. We'll uncover some of the park's hidden gems and scenic drives you can embark on when making your way toward your home base at WillowWind RV Park.

The Wonders of Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is known for its colorful canyons, towering monoliths, and the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth's crust. While it may not be as famous as some of Utah's other parks like Zion National Park, Capitol Reef offers a serene and intimate experience with nature.

Hidden Gems

  1. Cassidy Arch: Named after the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy, this natural arch offers a moderate hike with breathtaking views. The 3.4-mile round-trip trail rewards hikers with stunning vistas and the opportunity to walk across the arch itself.

  2. Cathedral Valley: This remote and less-visited area of the park showcases otherworldly rock formations, including the iconic Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for exploring this area.

  3. Hickman Bridge: This natural bridge spans 133 feet and is accessible via a moderate 1.8-mile round-trip hike. The trail offers beautiful views of the Fremont River and the surrounding canyon walls.

  4. Fruita Historic District: Once a Mormon settlement, Fruita now serves as a window into the past. Visit the Gifford Homestead to sample some fresh-baked pies made from fruit grown in the park's historic orchards.

  5. Petroglyphs: Throughout the park, you can find ancient rock art left by the Fremont culture. The most accessible petroglyphs are located along Highway 24, near the park's visitor center.

 
 

Scenic Drives

  1. Scenic Drive: This 8-mile paved road takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the Waterpocket Fold and access to several hiking trails. Don't miss the side trip down Grand Wash, a narrow canyon that was once used as a shortcut through the Waterpocket Fold.

  2. Cathedral Valley Loop: This 58-mile loop takes you through some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes in the park. The drive includes river fords and unpaved roads, so be sure to check road conditions before embarking on this adventure.

  3. Burr Trail: Starting in Boulder, Utah, this scenic backway winds through stunning slickrock country before entering Capitol Reef National Park. The paved portion of the road offers easy access to breathtaking views, while the unpaved section provides a more rugged experience.

  4. Highway 12 Scenic Byway: While not entirely within the park, this 124-mile road connects Capitol Reef with Bryce Canyon National Park, offering some of the most spectacular scenery in the American Southwest.

Best Times to Visit

Capitol Reef National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and planned activities. Here is a breakdown by season:

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make this an ideal time for hiking and photography.

• Summer (June to August): While temperatures can be hot, this is the perfect time to enjoy the park's fruit orchards and attend ranger-led programs.

• Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and changing foliage create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities.

• Winter (December to February): The park is less crowded, and the occasional dusting of snow on red rocks creates a magical landscape. Some facilities may have limited hours during this time.

Activities and Adventures

Capitol Reef National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and abilities:

  1. Hiking: With over 150 miles of trails, the park caters to both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Popular trails include the Cohab Canyon Trail, Chimney Rock Loop, and the challenging Navajo Knobs Trail.

  2. Rock Climbing: The park's towering cliffs and rock formations provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing and canyoneering. Be sure to check with the visitor center for current conditions and permits.

  3. Stargazing: Capitol Reef is an International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography.

  4. Fruit Picking: During the summer and fall, visitors can pick and enjoy fruit from the park's historic orchards for a small fee.

  5. Photography: The park's diverse landscapes, from sweeping vistas to intimate canyons, provide endless opportunities for photographers of all skill levels.

WillowWind RV Park: Your Gateway to Southern Utah's Wonders

While exploring Capitol Reef National Park and the surrounding area, WillowWind RV Park in Hurricane, Utah, serves as the perfect home base for your adventures. Located just a few hour’s drive from Capitol Reef and a short drive from other iconic national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, WillowWind offers comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

Why Choose WillowWind RV Park?

  1. Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Southern Utah, WillowWind provides easy access to multiple national parks, state parks, outdoor recreation areas, and golf courses.

  2. Modern Amenities: Enjoy full hookups, clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi to stay connected during your travels.

  3. Spacious Sites: The park offers generously sized RV sites that can accommodate rigs of all sizes, from small travel trailers to big rigs.

  4. Proximity to Convenience: Our park is situated in the heart of Hurricane, UT, and within walking distance to convenience stores, gas, food, and more. 

  5. Knowledgeable Staff: The friendly team at WillowWind can provide valuable insights and recommendations for making the most of your visit to nearby attractions.

Capitol Reef National Park offers a wealth of hidden gems and scenic drives that showcase the raw beauty of Southern Utah's landscape. From towering rock formations to ancient petroglyphs, the park provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all interests.

By choosing WillowWind RV Park as your home base, you'll have the perfect launching point for exploring not only Capitol Reef but also the many other natural wonders that Southern Utah has to offer. With its comfortable amenities, prime location, and welcoming atmosphere, WillowWind ensures that your adventure in Red Rock country will be comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable.

So pack your sense of adventure, bring your camera, and get ready to discover the hidden treasures of Capitol Reef National Park. With WillowWind RV Park as your home away from home, you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime in this spectacular corner of the American Southwest.

Additional Resources

https://www.nps.gov/care/

https://www.utah.com/destinations/national-parks/capitol-reef-national-park/

https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/capitol-reef

https://www.usgs.gov/geology-and-ecology-of-national-parks/geology-capitol-reef-national-park




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