Wandering Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is in the Waterpocket Fold, a geological monocline, or a wrinkle on the earth, extending almost 100 miles. You can take the scenic drive for a quick tour on the way to Arches National Park, or spend a few days hiking this lesser known, but beautiful national park. 

I stopped by Capitol Reef National Park on a Utah-Arizona road trip, check out my itinerary.

Scenic Drive

The 8-mile looped drive takes you through Capitol Reef National Park and its different geological formations with opportunities to stop off and take a hike. It’s a good option for a quick peek.

Moenkopi Formation

Moenkopi are formations of reddish-brown shale from 225 million years ago.

Wingate Sandstone

Caused by erosion over a very long period of time, the holes in the rock are a unique landscape.

Hickman Natural Bridge

Find the trailhead 2 mile east of the Capitol Reef Visitor’s Center. It’s about 2 miles and moderately rated. You’ll see some natural arches, interesting rock formations, and incredible canyon views. 

Panorama Point

A beautiful place to watch the sunset, Panorama Point is easy to access from the visitor’s center. It offers a 360-degree view of the landscape that Capitol Reef National Park offers.

Goosenecks & Sunset Trails

At the bottom of the Panorama Point parking lot, a dirt road leads you to both trails – Goosenecks Point is on the right, Sunset Point on the left. Goosenecks Point Overlook is a short trail, less than a ½ mile round trip. It has great views and is not physically challenging at all. Sunset Point Trail is also an easy trail that offers great views.

Want more National Parks?

Check out my itineraries