Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Capitol Reef

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

Located at the end of the Scenic Drive, this 2.5 mile extension carries us through a steep-walled canyon, and also a journey through many millions of years of geological time. We will witness rock from times when this landscape alternated from ancient equatorial river plains, but also the planet's largest sand dune desert. At the end or the drive, an easy 1 mile return hike into the gorge is highly recommended. Note: The size restriction on the Gorge Road is 27 feet. Trailers have a location to detach before driving the spur road. Though the road is unpaved, it is well-maintained and suitable for regular vehicles.

An easy highway pullout provides us with a quick and simple stop for a terrific photo of the century old schoolhouse - all one room of it. Complementary to the Schoolhouse and located a little further along the highway is another terrific example of the those earliest pioneers building - the Behunin family cabin.

Archeologists have found evidence of Native American cultures that occupied the Capitol Reef area for thousands of years. In the late 1800s, hardy and industrious Mormon settlers decided they could create a community cultivating fruit orchards, especially apples, but irrigating using ditches to draw water from the Fremont River. At its peak, Fruita was home for 10 families and is situated at the beginning of the Scenic Drive road. Today we can explore the few remaining, but preserved buildings and if we are there during fruit season, we are allowed to pick fruit to enjoy right from the trees.

For most of our visit, we will marvel at the rock layers and shapes of cliffs that rise around us. The Goosenecks viewpoint provides a different perspective where we can peer down into a steep and deep canyon. The oldest rock in the park has been exposed by the creek below. A short walk from Goosenecks takes us to the best sunset location that is easily accessible close to the main highway - but far enough way to enjoy the peacefulness.

A short unpaved spur road located midway along the Scenic Drive, Grand Wash gets us intimately close with the rock layers, which in places look like Swiss cheese. This canyon was once the hiding place for famous outlaws and you'll understand why it was a great place to stay out of the hands of those unwanted lawmen. Note: The size restriction on the Gorge Road is 27 feet. Though the road is unpaved, it is well-maintained and suitable for regular vehicles.

Two excellent hikes are available from the end of the Grand Wash Spur Road. The first is a fairly strenuous climb to elevated locations where a view of Cassidy Arch can be enjoyed - as well as views across the valley. The much easier option, and arguably the best short hike in the park is to follow the Grand Wash Trail. This is a fairly easy introduction to slot canyoning, and at its most amazing point, has 800 foot walls rising above you where the canyon is only 15 feet wide. Do not hike this trail if rain is forecast or skies are threatening as flash flooding can be a genuine risk.

From a very convenient highway parking area, it's a not-to-be-missed stop to view the incredible petroglyph panels from an easy boardwalk. Archeological evidence has revealed much about the Fremont Culture people, the name we have given as they inhabited sites along the reliable Fremont River.

For just an 8 mile drive, this really packs a punch with many spectacular views and amazing layered rock formations. It is the true highlight of Capitol Reef as we experience the Waterpocket Fold, up close and personal. The official Scenic Drive is paved, and has two short spur roads that detour just short distances. Expect to spend a couple of hours enjoying sightseeing along the drive. Add more time if like taking a hike or two.