If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Capitol Reef National Park and Glacier 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 Capitol Reef National Park.
Table Of Contents
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.
Glacier National Park Overview
A showcase of melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness steeped in human history. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
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.
Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trails
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.
Best Hikes At Capitol Reef National Park
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| 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 |
Hiking Overview at Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is renowned for its stunning scenery and breath-taking views. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous treks. Some of the most popular trails include the short but sweet Glacier Point trail, which leads to an overlook with sweeping views of the Canyon; the moderate but rewarding Mist Trail, which takes hikers past two of the park’s most iconic waterfalls; and the strenuous but unforgettable Highline Trail, which traverses along a narrow ridge with dizzying drop-offs on either side. There truly is something for everyone at Glacier National Park. So lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail!
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Glacier National Park
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDonald Creek Via Johns Lake | 79.8576 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Lake McDonald Trail | 379.7808 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Otokomi Lake | 701.9544 | 5 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Sun Point Nature Trail | 64.9224 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Bowman Lake Trail | 941.832 | 5 | out and back | 4 |
| Two Medicine Lake Loop | 218.8464 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Baring Falls Via Piegan Pass Trail | 19.812 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Aster Park | 202.9968 | 7 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Ptarmigan Trail to Cosley Lake | 1759.9152 | 7 | out and back | 5 |
| Boulder Pass Trail | 1406.9568 | 3 | point to point | 5 |
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!
Wildlife at Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is home to an incredible variety of plants and animals. Visitors can expect to see everything from bighorn sheep and grizzly bears to delicate wildflowers and towering Douglas firs. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, and Glacier is considered one of the best places in North America to view animals in their natural habitat. In addition to the Big Five (bison, elk, moose, mountain goats, and deer), Glacier is also home to wolves, wolverines, lynx, eagles, and many other species of birds and mammals. With over 1 million acres of wilderness to explore, Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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.
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.
Glacier National Park Weather Considerations
Glacier National Park is a beautiful place to visit, no matter what time of year it is. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on when you go. The best time to visit Glacier National Park is in the summertime. From June to August, the weather is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the high 20s to low 30s Celsius. This makes it perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying all of the other activities that Glacier National Park has to offer. The worst time to visit Glacier National Park is in the wintertime. From December to February, the weather is typically cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -20 Celsius. This can make it difficult to get around and enjoy all that Glacier National Park has to offer. So if you’re planning a trip to Glacier National Park, be sure to check the weather forecast in advance so you can plan accordingly.