Capitol Reef Nation Park is truly overlooked/underrated in my opinion. It's a bit more isolated, and more "difficult" to get to... but you know what that means?! Fewer crowds!! The number of people can really impact my experience - I like space and being able to connect with nature, so Capitol Reef was a favorite of mine!
There aren't nearly as many lodging or food options in Torrey, U as there are near Zion, but you have what you need! I stayed at the Broken Spur Inn - the food at the restaurant there was actually really good; I had dinner there and the continental breakfast was one of the best I've had! Other lodging options include Rim Rock Inn (has great views), and Capitol Reef Resort (a more luxury experience option).
There are also some camping options within the park, Capitol Reef Group Campsite and Fruita Campground, that can be reserved on recreation.gov. Depending on the time of year that you're visiting Capitol Reef (late summer or fall), you can handpick your own cherries, peaches, and apples at the 200 year-old Fruita Orchard. Definitely don't leave without getting some homemade pie from the Gifford House/Homestead.
Some of my favorite views and hikes in Capitol Reef:
Scenic Byway + Capital Gorge Drive - You can enjoy these views right from your car! There are many places for you to get out for photo ops, but no hiking required.
Cassidy Arch Trail (3.1 miles)
Goosenecks + Sunset Point (1 - 2.5 miles) - it's in the name, but this is a great spot for sunset!
Hickman Bridge Trail (2 miles)
Petroglyphs - Native American carvings/engravings in the rock.
If you're wanting to visit the other Nation Parks in Utah,
make sure to check out my Ultimate "Mighty Five" Road Trip blog post.
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