Capitol Reef National Park: Meeks Mesa
This 8-mile out-and-back follows old cattle trails to mesa views and isolated campsites just outside Capitol Reef.
Capitol Reef National Park is one of Utah’s finest geologic parks; it features some of the finest Navajo Sandstone domes still around. Hiking in Capitol Reef will expose you to these and other wonders, including the park’s many arches, canyons and natural bridges. Trails in Capitol Reef National Park often dip into the park’s massive backcountry. There, backpackers will find a wealth of obstacles as they make their way through the route. If you have five days to spare set out on a 32-mile trek from Chimney Rock to Pleasant Creek. But if you are only looking to fill a day head over to the Sulphur Creek Goosenecks, where waterfalls and pools will keep you comfortable in the hot desert sun.
This 8-mile out-and-back follows old cattle trails to mesa views and isolated campsites just outside Capitol Reef.
Scramble through a beautiful (and overlooked) 5.4-mile slot canyon filled with pools and waterfalls. Expect wet feet and maybe some swimming.
Pinched slot canyons, neck-craning cliffs and cottonwood groves highlight this strenuous 9.9-mile shuttle hike in Utah's redrock country.
This challenging 6.3-mile lasso loop takes an off-trail tour of The Stegosaur, a massive sandstone fin in Capitol Reef National Park.
A 12.47-mile cross country backpack in Capitol Reef National park, going from Capitol Gorge to Pleasant Creek. You'll need advanced orienteering skills because this entirely cross country route wanders over slickrock bowls and passes atop the Waterpocket Fold.
Discover a private paradise in Capitol Reef National Park by crossing the park's convoluted Waterpocket Fold on this 32-mile point-to-point.
This 10-mile, cathedral-like hallway in Capitol Reef National Park combines easy canyon hiking and foolproof routefinding with life-list sights.
Spend the night at a five-star campsite tucked in the broad slickrock bowls between Capitol Gorge and Pleasant Creek on this 7.7-miler in Capitol Reef National Park.
Discover a private paradise by crossing the parks convoluted Waterpocket Fold.