Travelling to Capitol Reef in winter: How to prepare and what to do there

Although the red rocks may be dusted with snow, Capitol Reef National Park in USA has much to offer visitors while winter weather prevails.

According to the National Park Service, it's important that visitors be realistic about their ability to engage in certain activities and do some preliminary research on what's open and accessible, Desert News reports.

How to prepare for visiting Capitol Reef in winter

The NPS website states that visitors should "be realistic about the increased level of difficulty of travelling and recreation in winter. Walking on icy or snowy trails is much more difficult than walking on a trail in the summer.

Along with planning activities for a winter trip to Capitol Reef, you should also pay attention to planning your accommodation.

The Capitol Reef accommodations section of the Wayne County tourism website gives many recommendations for places to stay in various towns in the area, as well as RV and campground accommodations.

Look at the temperature before booking your accommodation as it has been reported that the park "can get below freezing and that it typically receives several inches of snow each month in the winter."

For those who still want to camp, a popular recommendation is the Fruita Campground, which is open year-round.

Visit Utah reported that the campground operates "on a first-come, first-served basis from November 1 to the end of February."

Things to do at Capitol Reef in winter

• Walk along the Waterpocket fold.
• Take ATV tours of the areas that are open to the public.
• Go on a horseback ride through Roost Robbers.
• Take pictures at Gooseneck Overlook and Sunset Point.
• Hike the Chimney Rock Trail.
• Take a walk along the Grand Wash Trail.
• Stargaze at Fruita Campground.
• Explore the petroglyphs of Fremont Indian ancestors.
• Find a geocache or create your own geocache.
• Watch the wildlife.

Another popular wintertime tourist attraction is to take a drive along the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

Where to eat in Capitol Reef in winter

Depending on what city you are travelling through or stopping at on your way to Capitol Reef or its surroundings, there are many options to choose from.

The Wayne County website has lists of dining options to choose from in the communities around the park.