Capitol Reef National Park
National park · Garfield County
Utah
Highlights
Geologic wonder with orchards, petroglyphs, and dark skies
Geologic wonder with orchards, petroglyphs, and dark skies
"I recommend visiting Capitol Reef National Park for stargazing, since it is designated an International Dark Sky Park." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Located just outside the town of Torrey and covering about 377 square miles, this Utah park showcases otherworldly scenery—colorful canyons, dramatic cliffs, natural arches, and ancient petroglyphs—shaped by the Waterpocket Fold, a 100+-mile wrinkle in the earth. Significantly larger than its southwestern neighbor but receiving roughly 1.3 million fewer visitors annually, it’s a quieter alternative for hikers and drivers, with an eight-mile scenic drive, numerous trails, and opportunities for solitude and easier parking. Designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2015, the Fruita Area, the South (Waterpocket) District, and the North (Cathedral) District are recommended for the best night-sky views." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A diverse park of cliffs, domes, and narrow canyons featuring unique rock layers and scenic backcountry roads that highlight lesser-known desert geology." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Set amid varied rock formations and a long geologic fold, this south-central Utah park is valued for canyoneering, hiking, Native American sites, and historic orchards where visitors can pick apples. The Waterpocket Fold creates narrow canyons and unique scenery; favored areas include Cathedral Valley, Grand Wash, white sandstone domes, Chimney Rock, and the Hickman Bridge arch." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"An underrated park in Utah, known for its stunning landscapes, offering a less crowded alternative to Zion or Bryce."
