Capitol Reef Self Guided Driving Tour

you'll hear about the tour, the park and then be guided in the park.

Step back to the 1880s at the tiny sandstone cabin built by Elijah Behunin, his wife, and their thirteen children. It's hard to imagine fifteen people living in such a small space, but this remarkable cabin tells one of Capitol Reef's greatest pioneer survival stories and offers a glimpse into the hardships faced by early settlers.

Walk through a spectacular slot canyon where towering 800-foot sandstone walls rise overhead. This easy, mostly flat hike is one of the park's highlights and was once rumored to be a favorite hideout for Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch.

Hike to one of Capitol Reef's most famous natural landmarks—a magnificent 133-foot sandstone bridge sculpted by millions of years of erosion. Along the trail you'll also enjoy sweeping views of colorful cliffs and fascinating geology.

Capitol Building. Rising dramatically above the surrounding red cliffs, it's one of the park's most recognizable landmarks and a favorite photo stop.

Walk a short boardwalk to view remarkable rock carvings created by the Fremont people over 1,000 years ago. Human figures, bighorn sheep, and mysterious symbols still decorate the cliff face, offering one of the Southwest's finest collections of ancient rock art.

This charming one-room schoolhouse served the children of Fruita from 1917 until 1941. Learn how pioneer children balanced schoolwork with helping their families harvest the orchards that still flourish in the park today.

Start your adventure with exhibits explaining the park's incredible geology, pioneer history, and Native American heritage. Rangers, maps, a bookstore, and access to the Scenic Drive make this the perfect place to begin exploring Capitol Reef.

Don't miss one of Capitol Reef's most beloved stops. Tour the historic farmhouse before treating yourself to homemade pies, fresh bread, jams, and ice cream made from fruit grown in the park's century-old orchards.

Named after the legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy, this impressive natural arch rewards adventurous hikers with sweeping canyon views. The trail is challenging but offers one of the park's most memorable hikes.

From Slickrock Divide you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Waterpocket Fold, colorful sandstone layers, and the breathtaking landscape that inspired the name "The Sleeping Rainbow."

carved dramatic vertical grooves resembling the columns of an ancient cathedral. It's one of Capitol Reef's most distinctive geologic formations.

d the winding curves of Sulphur Creek far below. Sunset Point nearby offers one of the best places in the park to watch the cliffs glow brilliant shades of red and gold.