Summary
The park is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons, including hiking, scenic drives, and exploring the history of the area.
One of the main points of interest in the park is the Waterpocket Fold, which is a 100-mile long geological feature that creates a stunning landscape. Along the fold, there are many hiking trails and scenic overlooks that offer visitors a chance to explore the area and take in the beautiful views.
Another attraction in the park is the Fruita Historic District, which is a preserved Mormon settlement from the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the orchards, historic buildings, and learn about the history of the area.
The park is also home to many unique geological formations, such as the Cathedral Valley and the Hickman Bridge. These formations offer visitors a chance to see some of the unique natural wonders of the area.
The best time of year to visit Capitol Reef National Park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, visitors can also enjoy the park in the summertime, although the temperatures can be hot.
Overall, Capitol Reef National Park is a great destination for anyone who enjoys hiking, exploring history, and taking in stunning landscapes.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Bullfrog Canyon Overlook
Bullfrog - Glen Canyon National Rec Area
Bullfrog Campground
Bullfrog camp 7-1-2018
Stanton Creek Dispersed - Glen Canyon NRA