Embarking on a 3-Day Summer Getaway Through Capitol Reef Country

Embark on a captivating 3-day, 2-night getaway to the heart of Utah’s natural splendor, where the rugged beauty of Capitol Reef Country unfolds before you. This family-friendly journey takes you through the red rock canyons of Capitol Reef National Park, the whimsical sandstone goblins of Goblin Valley State Park, and the serene alpine landscapes of Boulder Mountain. Each day promises a new adventure, from exploring ancient petroglyphs and hiking to breathtaking vistas, to stargazing under some of the country’s darkest skies. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable exploration of Utah’s hidden gems, where memories are waiting to be made at every turn.

Day 1: Discovering the Wonders of Capitol Reef National Park

Day one of your Capitol Reef Country adventure begins with an early start to enjoy the rising sun casting its first light on the towering cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park. After some advance research you learn that one of the best 360-degree views of the park is Panorama Point located only minutes from your hotel. This is an excellent spot for viewing sunrise and sunset. The park’s Visitor Center is your next stop, offering a treasure trove of information where you can obtain a map of the park with hiking trails.

The day’s highlight is a hike along the Hickman Bridge Trail. The trail, suitable for all ages, leads to an impressive a 133 ft. natural arch, providing a perfect backdrop for family photos. After the hike, a leisurely picnic among the orchards in the Fruita Historic District offers a moment of relaxation and a taste of the park’s famed fruit pies that can be purchased at the Gifford Homestead.

Hickman Natural Bridge

After a picnic lunch in the orchards, you can explore the Grand Wash. Grand Wash is a striking feature of Capitol Reef National Park, offering visitors a chance to walk through a dramatic canyon with towering sandstone walls. The hike through Grand Wash is a moderately easy 4.8-mile out-and-back trail that takes you along a seasonal riverbed, known as a wash, which is typically dry. The highlight of the trail is “The Narrows,” a captivating slot canyon section where the walls close in around you, creating an intimate and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Hikers should be cautious of weather conditions, especially rain, which can be dangerous in slot canyons due to the risk of flash floods. Grand Wash offers a peaceful stroll through one of Capitol Reef’s most iconic landscapes, making it a must-visit for any trip to the park.

As the day winds down, you once again find yourself on the Panorama Point, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, then capping off the day gazing at the starry skies of this International Dark Sky Park.

Day 2: A Whimsical Escape to Goblin Valley State Park

On the second day of this 3-day Capitol Reef Country getaway, your journey takes you into the enchanting world of Goblin Valley State Park, a certified International Dark Sky Park. This unique park is a playground of geology, featuring thousands of whimsical rock formations known as “goblins,” which create an otherworldly playground perfect for exploration and imagination. Kids are especially thrilled to weave through the maze-like valley, playing hide-and-seek among the hoodoos. 

Hiking to Goblin’s Lair

Goblin’s Lair, also known as the Chamber of the Basilisk, is an adventure that combines the beauty of the park’s unique rock formations with the thrill of exploring a hidden cavern that is actually a collapsed slot canyon.

The journey begins at the Observation Point adjacent to the parking lot, where hikers can take in the vast expanse of the Valley of Goblins before setting off on the Carmel Canyon Loop. This 3-mile round trip hike is generally considered easy to moderate, though it does require some climbing with scrambling over rocks and boulders near the Lair’s entrance. 

For those seeking an even more adventurous route, a technical roped rappel from the west access point is required to get into the cavern itself. A permit is required that can be obtained at the visitor center.

End the day by enjoying a star filled sky at this International Dark Sky Park promises a celestial spectacle. Watch in wonder as the night sky reveals its secrets, the Milky Way stretching across the expanse above.

Day 3: The Serene Beauty of Boulder Mountain

Immerse yourself on day three in the tranquility of a high-elevation oasis. Boulder Mountain is today’s destination, a high plateau filled with alpine lakes and lush meadows that provide a refreshing contrast to the deserts and canyons from the previous two days.

Morning: Start with a scenic drive along Route 12, taking in the views of Capitol Reef National Park and Henry Mountains to the north and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to the south from the Larb Hollow and Homestead Overlooks. For the fishermen, add a stop at Lower Bowns Reservoir for some fishing, where you can try your luck at catching lake trout.

Afternoon: A visit to the Anasazi State Park Museum in the town of Boulder offers a glimpse into the ancient Native American culture that once thrived here.

Anasazi

Evening: Their final evening is spent around a campfire at one of Boulder Mountain’s pristine campsites. Share stories of your adventures and plan the next getaway to Capitol Reef Country where there so much more to see and do.

As you pack up to leave Capitol Reef Country, you’re already dreaming of your next visit. The red rocks, the goblins, and the mountain have etched a permanent place in your hearts, calling you back for more adventure.

For information on lodging, restaurants and other services, visit www.capitolreefcountry.com.

Keep Capitol Reef Country Forever Mighty

What is Forever Mighty? It’s practicing responsible travel while visiting Utah and Capitol Reef Country by following the principles of Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace.

Plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, be considerate of others, support local business and honor community, history and heritage. Help us keep Utah and Capitol Reef Country’s outdoor recreation areas beautiful, healthy, and accessible.

Plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, be considerate of others, support local business and honor community, history and heritage. Help us keep Utah and Capitol Reef Country’s outdoor recreation areas beautiful, healthy, and accessible.

Share Article

Leave a comment