ADVICE FROM A LOCAL
How We’d Spend One Day in Capitol Reef National Park as a Family
An early canyon hike, a picnic with pie, a little time in Torrey and an easy evening back at the resort. This is the day we’d plan for our own family.
You don’t have to fit every trail into one day. We’d start early, leave room for a good lunch and let the kids set the pace.
Before you go: Pack lunch, water, sun protection and layers. Check current park conditions, the weather and the day’s ranger-program schedule. Never enter a canyon when storms threaten.
1. Start early in Grand Wash
We’d begin with a hike down Grand Wash. Walking between those tall canyon walls is a memorable way to start the day. Turn around whenever it makes sense for your family.
If everyone still has energy, add Hickman Bridge, a shorter hike to a natural bridge with some climbing along the way. Our Capitol Reef favorites guide has more on both.
2. Unpack lunch near the Gifford House
After the hike, we’d head to the Fruita picnic area near the Gifford House and eat the lunch we packed. Keep it simple and give everyone time to rest.
3. Make pie the dessert stop
Then it’s on to the Gifford House for a locally baked fruit pie. The shop is seasonal and selection varies, so check hours before you go.
4. Check for a ranger program
We’d see if there’s a presentation that fits the afternoon, a nice change of pace after hiking. NPS currently lists the Ripple Rock Nature Center building as closed, with outdoor kids’ programs usually from late May through mid-August, so follow that day’s ranger-program schedule. No program? Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center instead.
5. Head to Torrey for the rope swing
Next, we’d head to Torrey for the rope swing over the ditch near the Chuck Wagon. It’s a local favorite for kids during the summer months.
6. Have dinner at Capitol Burger
We’d go to Capitol Burger for an easy dinner. It’s a food truck, so confirm its location and hours that day. Our Food Recommendations page lists more local places to eat.
7. Come back for ice cream and playtime
Back at Capitol Reef RV Resort and Glamping, we’d make time for ice cream, the playground and the jump pad. It’s a chance for the kids to burn off energy while the grown-ups settle in.
8. Finish with a fire and the stars
We’d end at our fire pit, talking about the day and waiting for the stars to come out. Follow current fire restrictions, keep the fire attended and put it completely out before bed. Let your eyes adjust and keep lights low. Our International Dark Sky Park guide has more on the night sky here.
That’s our kind of family day. Take the parts that fit your family and save something for the next visit.