Wandering Capitol Reef National Park

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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.