If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a look at what they have to offer in terms of hiking and wildlife, plus what the best time of year to visit might be.
Let’s get started with an overview of Canyonlands National Park.
Table Of Contents
Canyonlands National Park Overview
Canyonlands invites you to explore a wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically formed buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Rivers divide the park into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. These areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers different opportunities for sightseeing and adventure.
Capitol Reef National Park Overview
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles.
Hiking At National Parks
Most national parks have some of the best hiking trails you’ll find anywhere in the US.
If you’re planning to take along your furry friend, double-check the rules before you go – as many of the parks have different rules about bringing animals along with you.
Canyonlands National Park Hiking Trails
Canyonlands National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of trails to suit all levels of ability. For those who are looking for an easy hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a great option. It’s only 0.5 miles long and takes around 30 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Canyonlands Visitor Center, making it easy to find. For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Mesa Arch Trail is a great option. It’s 1.2 miles long and takes around 90 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Grand View Point Overlook, making it easy to find. However, be aware that the last part of the hike involves scrambling over rocks, so it’s not suitable for everyone.
Best Hikes At Canyonlands National Park
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Confluence Overlook Trail | 409.956 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Maze Overlook Trail | 293.8272 | 3 | out and back | 5 |
| Lost Canyon | 238.9632 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Shafer Canyon Overlook | 13.716 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cave Spring Trail | 11.8872 | 3 | loop | 4 |
| Squawflat Trail to Lost Canyon Peekaboo Trail | 453.8472 | 5 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Murphy Trail Loop | 491.9472 | 5 | loop | 4.5 |
| Salt Creek and Horse Canyon OHV Trail | 279.8064 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devils Pocket Loop | 511.7592 | 3 | loop | 5 |
| Elephant Hill Trail | 221.8944 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
Hiking Overview at Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering a wide variety of trails to suit all levels of ability. For those looking for a relatively easy hike, the Capitol Gorge Trail is an excellent option. This 3-mile round-trip hike takes you through a narrow canyon with towering walls, and can be completed in a few hours. For something a bit more challenging, the Frying Pan Trail is a 9.5-mile loop that takes you up into the foothills of thepark. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Finally, for experienced hikers looking for a real test, the Hailstone Trail is a strenuous 16-mile trek that summits several peaks along the way. Whichever trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at Capitol Reef National Park.
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Capitol Reef National Park
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fremont River Trail | 124.968 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Upper Muley Twist | 412.6992 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Cohab Canyon – Cassidy Arch Trail | 728.7768 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Panorama Point | 2.7432 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Frying Pan Trail | 797.9664 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Dr. | 169.7736 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Burro Wash Trail | 302.9712 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Sulphur Creek Waterfall Hike | 54.864 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cottonwood Wash | 367.8936 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Fremont Gorge Trail | 310.896 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife at Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Canyonlands is divided into three major ecosystems: desert, riparian, and canyon. The desert ecosystem is the most widespread, covering 60% of the park. In this arid environment, you can find plants such as cacti and Joshua trees. Animals that call the desert home include lizards, snakes, rabbits, and mice. The riparian ecosystem can be found near rivers and streams. Here you will find cottonwoods and willows as well as animals such as beavers, otters, and fish. The canyon ecosystem is the most diverse, with a variety of plant life including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. Canyon animals include birds of prey, bats, and small rodents. No matter where you explore in Canyonlands National Park, you are sure to see a wide variety of plants and animals.
Wildlife at Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. The park’s diverse ecosystem includes desert, mountain, and river habitats, providing a home for many different species of creatures. Visitors to the park can expect to see desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and coyotes. There are also several species of reptiles, including the Gila monster and desert tortoise. In addition to its furry and scaly residents, Capitol Reef National Park is also home to a variety of birds, includinghawks, eagles, and owls. Flowers bloom throughout the year in the park, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Capitol Reef National Park is truly a wildlife paradise!
What’s the best time to visit?
A lot of times, weather can dictate when it makes the most sense to visit a particular national park.
Plus, depending on the types of activities you’re hoping to take part in, seasonality will be a huge factor in whether those things are even available.
Canyonlands National Park Weather Considerations
Canyonlands National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The park is known for its stunning views of canyons, red rock formations, and desert landscapes. Canyonlands National Park is located in Utah, and its weather varies greatly depending on the time of year. The best time to visit Canyonlands National Park is during the spring or fall. During these months, the weather is mild and the landscapes are beautiful. However, Canyonlands National Park can be extremely hot during the summer, and winter can bring cold temperatures and snow. As a result, Canyonlands National Park can be a great destination for all types of travelers.
Capitol Reef National Park Weather Considerations
Capitol Reef National Park is located in southern Utah, and the weather there can vary greatly depending on the time of year. The summers are hot, with average highs in July and August exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the dry heat means that the temperatures are not as oppressive as they might be in other parts of the country. The winters are cool, with average lows in January and February below freezing. However, Capitol Reef National Park is a popular destination for winter sports, and the snow-covered landscape is truly breathtaking. Spring and fall are generally considered to be the best times to visit Capitol Reef National Park, as the temperatures are mild and the crowds are relatively thin. Regardless of when you visit, Capitol Reef National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.