Capitol Reef National Park, situated in south-central Utah, is a hidden gem known for its unique geology, colorful cliffs, and mesmerizing landscapes. Spanning over 240,000 acres, the park is named after its remarkable Waterpocket Fold—a nearly 100-mile-long warp in the Earth’s crust. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic drives, hike through narrow canyons, and marvel at the towering cliffs and domes that resemble a mythical city. Capitol Reef also offers opportunities for stargazing, orchard picking, and learning about the region’s rich history. With its stunning rock formations and diverse ecosystems, Capitol Reef National Park captivates all who venture into its enchanting realm.
Top Photography Locations and Sights at Capitol Reef National Park:
As photographers, we know that many of you will only have one chance in a lifetime to visit the National Parks. To make your life easier, we have compiled a list of our top photography locations and sights at Capitol Reef National Park! While this is not comprehensive, and there are many more amazing sights to see, it should give you a good feel for the park.
Capitol Reef National Park is broken up into three districts: The Fruita Historic District, the Cathedral Valley District, and the Southern Waterfold District. Be sure to check the park website for current road conditions and closures.
Fruita Historic District
Cathedral Valley District
Waterfold District
Capitol Reef National Park Wildlife Photography:
Capitol Reef National Park is filled with wildlife and biodiversity. If you like wildlife photography, you will love what this park has to offer!
Want to learn more about Capitol Reef National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Capitol Reef National Park Map (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map)
- Best Easy Day Hikes Capitol Reef National Park (Best Easy Day Hikes Series)
- Capitol Reef National Park: The Complete Hiking and Touring Guide
- The Capitol Reef Reader (National Park Readers)
- Photographing Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef National Parks
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Featured National Park Photographers:
- Vezzani Photography: Capitol Gorge, Cohab Canyon Fruita Overlook, Glass Mountain, Goosenecks Overlook, Hickman Bridge, Panorama Point, Pioneer Register, Temples of the Sun and Moon
- Zoltan G Levay: Scenic Drive
- NPS: Elk, Gopher Snake, Marmot, Pallid Bat, Spadefoot Toad, Western Tanager, Cottonwood Wash
- NPS / Kit Frost: Capitol Dome
- NPS / Phil Sisto: Astrophotography
- Shutterstock / corlaffra: Looping the Fold
- Shutterstock / Danita Delimont: Chimney Rock, Sulphur Creek Trail, Strike Valley Overlook
- Shutterstock / hansen.matthew.d: Sunset Point
- Shutterstock / IrinaK: The Tanks
- Shutterstock / Kelly vanDellen: Cassidy Arch, Fremont River Overlook, Bentonite Hills, Gypsum Sinkhole, Morrell Line Cabin, Burrow Wash
- Shutterstock / Laurens Hoddenbagh: Fruita Orchard
- Shutterstock / Nina B: Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook, Oyster Shell Reef
- Shutterstock / Taylor Vice Photography: Pectols Pyramid
- Shutterstock / TheSteve: Halls Creek Narrows
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