Embark on an unforgettable journey through Capitol Reef National Park‘s captivating landscapes with its renowned driving tour. Traversing the Scenic Drive, adventurers will be awestruck by towering sandstone cliffs, explore the park’s rich geological history, and uncover hidden gems like the Fruita orchards. Along the way, knowledgeable guides bring the stories of this unique region to life, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas, hands-on exploration, or a deeper understanding of this natural wonder, the Capitol Reef driving tour promises an adventure like no other. Prepare to be swept away by the park’s extraordinary beauty and captivating tales.
Key Points
- Discover Capitol Reef’s scenic drive, offering a glimpse into its geological history through towering rock walls.
- Enjoy Fruita’s delectable pies and fresh fruit picking during the tour.
- Explore Capitol Gorge, Goosenecks, and Grand Wash, showcasing the park’s breathtaking natural and cultural heritage.
- Hike the old roadbed in Capitol Gorge for stunning vistas and ancient petroglyphs.
- Experience an exhilarating off-road adventure through the towering sandstone walls of the Grand Wash.
Tour Details
The Capitol Reef driving tour offers an engaging adventure through the park’s stunning landscapes, with pricing starting at $95 per group of up to 8 people.
You don’t need to pay today – simply reserve your spot and pay later.
This all-day tour showcases the area’s natural wonders, from the scenic drive between towering rock walls to the opportunity to taste delicious Fruita pies or pick fresh fruits like apples, cherries, apricots, pears, peaches, and plums.
Along the way, you’ll ponder ancient petroglyphs and learn about the park’s captivating geology.
With comprehensive route planning and all-day support, this driving tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Capitol Reef National Park.
Highlights of the Drive
As visitors embark on the Capitol Reef driving tour, they’ll be captivated by the towering rock walls that line the Scenic Drive, offering a glimpse into the park’s dramatic geological history.
Along this winding route, travelers can stop to savor the delectable pies and fresh fruits harvested from the orchards in Fruita, a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage.
Ponder the enigmatic petroglyphs left behind by the area’s indigenous peoples, and learn about the breathtaking geological formations that shape this rugged landscape.
From the soaring Goosenecks to the winding Grand Wash Road, every turn along the driving tour promises an exhilarating adventure and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Capitol Reef.
Included in the Tour
Exploring the Capitol Reef National Park, visitors embark on a comprehensive drive tour that encompasses a range of captivating sights and experiences. Included in this adventure is the renowned Scenic Drive, a winding route that winds through towering rock walls and offers breathtaking vistas of the park’s dramatic geological features.
Travelers will also venture into the historic Fruita, a former Mormon settlement known for its abundant orchards, where they can savor locally-grown pies and pluck fresh fruits.
The tour further includes the rugged Capitol Gorge, the Goosenecks overlook, and the Grand Wash Road and Trail, each offering unique perspectives on the park’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Exploring the Scenic Drive
Winding along the Scenic Drive, visitors marvel at the towering, rust-colored rock walls that flank the narrow roadway, immersing them in Capitol Reef’s dramatic geological landscape.
The drive offers a captivating glimpse into the park’s natural splendor, with highlights that include:
- Tracing the old roadbed through the narrow confines of Capitol Gorge
- Marveling at the Goosenecks, where the Fremont River has carved a winding path through the sandstone
- Exploring the Grand Wash, a striking canyon carved by ancient floods
- Discovering ancient petroglyphs left behind by the Fremont people, hinting at the region’s rich cultural history
This driving tour provides an unforgettable adventure through Capitol Reef’s breathtaking scenery and hidden wonders.
Hiking in Capitol Gorge
Visitors can embark on an exhilarating hike along the old roadbed in Capitol Gorge, where towering crimson cliffs flank the narrow path and lead them deep into the heart of this striking geological wonder.
As they meander through the gorge, hikers are treated to a glimpse of ancient petroglyphs etched into the sandstone walls, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.
The trail winds through a stunning landscape, with sheer rock formations towering overhead and the occasional pool of crystal-clear water adding to the sense of adventure.
Whether it’s marveling at the intricate patterns in the rock or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas, this hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Capitol Reef.
Driving the Grand Wash Road
After traversing the Scenic Drive, adventurers can then embark on the exhilarating journey of driving the Grand Wash Road, which winds its way through the heart of Capitol Reef’s remarkable landscape.
This dirt road, carved through the towering sandstone walls, offers a thrilling off-road experience, as visitors navigate the rugged terrain and bask in the grandeur of the surrounding geological formations.
Along the way, they may encounter:
- Sweeping vistas of the Grand Wash, a dramatic canyon carved by the forces of nature
- Opportunities to spot wildlife, such as bighorn sheep or desert birds, in their natural habitat
- Intriguing rock formations and textures that showcase the region’s rich geological history
- Chances to pull over and explore the area on foot, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints.
Storytelling and Support
The tour’s engaging storytelling brings Capitol Reef’s captivating history and geology to life, immersing visitors in the park’s wonders. Knowledgeable guides share insightful narratives, effortlessly weaving together the region’s fascinating past and present, fostering a deeper appreciation for this geological marvel.
Comprehensive route planning and all-day customer support ensure a seamless, worry-free experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the park’s natural splendor. From providing entry fees and reservations to offering a dedicated support line, the team’s attention to detail ensures that guests can focus on exploring the stunning Scenic Drive, hiking through the iconic Capitol Gorge, and discovering the ancient petroglyphs, all while learning about the land’s captivating story.
Additional Information
This Capitol Reef driving tour’s thoughtfully curated itinerary takes visitors on a captivating journey, showcasing the park’s extraordinary geological formations, rich history, and bountiful orchards.
From the iconic Scenic Drive’s towering rock walls to the ancient petroglyphs etched into sandstone, each stop on the tour promises to ignite a sense of wonder and discovery.
Highlights include:
- Indulging in freshly baked pies and harvesting seasonal fruits in the historic Fruita orchards
- Exploring the winding Capitol Gorge and marveling at the Goosenecks, a dramatic landscape carved by the Fremont River
Traversing the rugged Grand Wash Road and hiking the Grand Wash Trail to immerse in the park’s remote and untamed beauty.
Deciphering the captivating stories behind the ancient petroglyphs left by the region’s indigenous inhabitants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy allows guests to reserve their spot without paying upfront. Guests can change or cancel their booking at any time prior to the tour without penalty, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests. Guests can work with the tour provider to modify the itinerary, activities, or pace to better suit their interests and needs for an unforgettable experience.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tour?
The driving tour doesn’t have any dietary restrictions, so guests can enjoy the tour’s highlights like tasting Fruita pies and picking seasonal fruits without worry. Travelers with special dietary needs can simply bring their own snacks along.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Families?
The tour is well-suited for families and children, offering engaging activities and educational experiences. Families can explore geological wonders, taste local fruits, and discover ancient petroglyphs, creating a fun and adventurous day in the great outdoors.
What Kind of Equipment or Gear Is Recommended for the Tour?
For this adventurous driving tour, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and snacks or water. A camera’s also handy to capture the stunning geological wonders and ancient petroglyphs along the way. Leaving the heavy gear at home ensures a carefree excursion.
Recap
Exploring Capitol Reef’s Scenic Drive offers an unforgettable journey through the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
From towering rock formations to delightful fruit picking, the tour’s highlights deliver a captivating mix of natural wonders and enriching experiences.
Knowledgeable guides bring the park’s stories to life, ensuring visitors enjoy the breathtaking scenery and leave with cherished memories of their Capitol Reef adventure.
