Capitol Reef National Park
Temple of the Sun
Location: Utah
Permit: no
Capitol Reef is low-key one of my favorite parks in Utah—less crowded, super scenic, and full of surprises.
If you’ve got a high-clearance vehicle (or can rent a Jeep) head out to Cathedral Valley to see the Sun and Moon rocks—massive sandstone towers just hanging out in the middle of the desert.
Recommended time: 3-4 days
Day 1 – Classic Capitol Reef Highlights
Hickman Bridge Trail – 2.6 km (1.6 mi) round trip
Start your trip with this short but scenic hike to a natural bridge tucked into a red rock canyon. Great views, gentle elevation, and a solid intro to the park.
Rim Overlook Trail – 7.4 km (4.6 mi) round trip
If you’re feeling up for more after Hickman, continue past the junction for big views over the Fruita area and Waterpocket Fold. It’s a steady uphill but so worth it and was one of my favourite hikes.
Scenic Drive – 13 km (8 mi) one way
It’s easy, gorgeous, and lined with towering cliffs. Optional dirt road detours: Grand Wash or Capitol Gorge (weather dependent).
Sunset Point + Goosenecks Overlook – 1.1 km (0.7 mi) round trip
Wrap the day with two quick overlooks just off Hwy 24. Watch the shadows stretch across the canyon at sunset.
Day 2 – Cassidy Arch & Capitol Gorge
Cassidy Arch Trail – 5.5 km (3.4 mi) round trip
This trail climbs above a canyon to an arch you can actually walk across.
Capitol Gorge Trail – 3.2 km (2 mi) round trip
Drive the Capitol Gorge dirt road (check conditions first) and hike through a narrow canyon with inscriptions carved by early pioneers. Look for the "tanks" at the end if you’re up for a short scramble.
Panorama Point
An easy pull-off with amazing views—great for sunrise.
Optional add-on:
Explore the Fruita Historic District, and definitely check out the Gifford House (the pie and cinnamon buns were epic!), or stroll through the orchards if they’re in season.
Day 3 – Chimney Rock & More Hiking Options
Chimney Rock Loop Trail – 5.6 km (3.5 mi) loop
A solid moderate hike with big views. Best in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and glowing canyon walls.
Grand Wash Trail (out-and-back) – up to 6.4 km (4 mi)
Hike into a towering slot canyon with smooth walls and shaded narrows. You can go as far as you like and turn back if you don’t want to go all the way to the end.
Dinner in Torrey or campfire vibes at your site—Capitol Reef is one of the best parks for stargazing if you’re staying overnight.
Day 4 – Cathedral Valley or Bonus Trails
If you’ve got a 4WD vehicle or are willing to rent a Jeep. I rented a 2-door from Thousand Lakes RV for around $300 CAD ($220 USD).
Cathedral Valley Loop Drive – ~96 km (60 mi), full-day trip
This was such a good experience. The Temple of the Sun and Moon are the most popular and were my favourite. There are also amazing lookouts with a lot less people. Check road and weather conditions before going as there is a river crossing, which can be too high at certain times of the year.
Alternate day hike ideas:
Cohab Canyon Trail – 5.6 km (3.5 mi) out-and-back or longer if connecting trails
Navajo Knobs Trail – 15.3 km (9.5 mi) round trip, strenuous but incredible views if you want a challenge
Camping
I camped at Thousand Lakes RV, and it was affordable, had hookups, showers, laundry, and a pool.