Stormy skies with a small spot of a rainbow, red cliffs, and a blacktop road.
90 MinutesFee applies

Scenic Drive Tour

Capitol Reef National Park

Take Capitol Reef's Scenic Drive, and experience colorful cliffs and deep narrow canyons from the comfort of your vehicle.

Capitol Reef's Scenic Drive takes about an hour-and-a-half to drive. Add additional time for hiking off the Scenic Drive, Grand Wash, and Capitol Gorge roads. The Scenic Drive is a 7.9 mile (12.7 km) paved road, suitable for passenger vehicles. Allot about an hour and half roundtrip to drive the Scenic Drive and the two dirt spur roads, Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge. These dirt spur roads enter canyons and lead to trailheads, and are usually suitable for passenger cars and RVs up to 27 feet (8.2 meters) in length. The first two miles of the Scenic Drive go through the Fruita Rural Historic District. Along the drive, look for remnants of the community, the Gifford House, and many orchards.

Tags

Scenic DrivingRock Landscapes and FeaturesScenic ViewsRoads, Routes and HighwaysScenic DriveUtahdriving

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Details

Duration

90 Minutes

Duration Details

The Scenic Drive takes about 90 minutes roundtrip, but factor in more time for hiking and exploring. For a shorter drive, consider taking the Scenic Drive to the Grand Wash Road, which is about 40 minutes roundtrip.

Fees

A fee is required for recreating within Capitol Reef National Park.

Fees Apply

Yes

Seasons

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility

The Scenic Drive is a paved road, with beautiful vistas of red, orange, and white cliffs, as well as deep narrow canyons.

Pets

Yes — Pets are allowed on the Scenic Drive, but not on any trails. Learn more about visiting Capitol Reef with your pet.

Reservations

No

Location

Capitol Reef Scenic Drive

View on NPS.govBack to Capitol Reef

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