This beautiful Utah national park often gets overlooked for the other parks both to the east and west of it, but that needs to change. Â Capitol Reef National Park is part of the MIGHTY 5 of Utah for a reason. Â Like Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, and Zion, this park is amazing to visit all throughout the year. Â Follow this guide for a fall weekend you won’t forget.
Fruita Historic District
The heart of the park belongs to the Fruita Historic District and is the perfect place to start.  Not only because the visitor center is there and you can find all the info you need, but also because it tells the story of the park with each site you visit.  From the visitor center, hike along the Fremont River Trail to the Gifford House and Barn, Blacksmith Shop, and Ripple Rock Nature Center.  Refer to this MAP for better detail.  After that, make your way through the Orchards (located near the campground) as you continue on the trail.  There are two scenic viewpoints on the trail once you’ve passed the orchards. It’s your choice as to how far you hike as you will have to take this same trail back to the visitor center.  In total, the trail is an easy, 4.8 miles roundtrip.  As an alternative, you can drive to each location if you prefer.
Once you’ve returned to the visitor center, get in your vehicle and make your way east along Highway 24. Â This road will lead you to two very special places – Fruita Schoolhouse and Petroglyph Panel. Â We have an entire blog with all the details for the Fruita Historic District with much more detail HERE.
After seeing all the historic sites, it’s time to take a hike. Â The Cohab Canyon Trail offers beautiful views of the Fruita Historic District. Â There are two trailheads for this hike. Â One is located along highway 24 passed the Petroglyph Panels. Â Starting from here allows for a 2.4 mile hike roundtrip. Â The other trailhead is located next to the Gifford House and Barn and is 3.4 miles roundtrip. Â Either choice comes with significant elevation gain at the beginning of the hike before it levels off into the canyon. Â
Fruita Historic District
Discover history at one of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. Capitol Reef often gets overlooked, but taking the time to visit this park is worth
Capitol Gorge Trail
This MUST HIKE trail at Capitol Reef National Park is filled with iconic views, petroglyphs, pioneer history, and a unique trail ending. Â After you’ve spent
Capitol Reef at Night
A weekend wouldn’t be complete without a sunset, night sky views, and a camping spot. Â Fruita Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers. Â While there are no hook ups in park, they do offer water at the dump station. Â The campground is located next to the orchards which makes for great views. Â Capitol Reef is a designated International Dark Sky Park which only adds to the wonderful camping experience.
Scenic Drive & Trails
As the sun comes up, there is more to see at the park. Â Just passed the campground is the entrance to the 8 mile scenic drive. Â It’s a road worth taking with 10 points of interest and an additional guide for more detail. Â At the end of the drive, you’ll come to Capitol Gorge Trail. Â If you enjoyed the history of the Fruita District, then this trail is for you. Â It continues the story of the park. Â This 2 mile out-and-back trail takes you on the pioneer road with more petroglyphs and beautiful scenery.
Other trails to take include Golden Throne, Chimney Rock, Grand Wash, and Cassidy Arch. Â See the FULL LIST of Capitol Reef Trails. Â Additionally, there is even more to do in the Cathedral Valley District and the Waterpocket District. Â These areas may be more than you can do in one weekend, but it’s great to have options.
Utah
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Capitol Reef National Park or the National Park Service.
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