Capitol Reef National Park

Introducing Capitol Reef National Park

Not as crowded as its fellow parks but equally scenic, Capitol Reef contains much of the 100-mile Waterpocket Fold, created 65 million years ago when the earth’s surface buckled up and folded, exposing a cross-section of geologic history that is downright painterly in its colorful intensity. Hwy 24 cuts grandly through the park, but take the park’s own scenic drive ($5) starting from the visitor center (435-425-3791; www.nps.gov/care; Hwy 24 & Scenic Dr; 8am-4:30pm, extended hr summer), where there’s grassy camping (campsites $10). A legacy of the Mormon settlement of Fruita, the park also encompasses amazing orchards (www.nps.gov/care/historyculture/orchardscms.htm) where visitors can pick cherries, peaches and apples in season.

Last updated: Sep 22, 2008