Getting to Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park sits in UT, United States, with Loa the nearest town of any size — about 29.2 mi (47 km) out, or roughly 1 hr 2 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Loa | 29.2 mi (47 km) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Junction | 57.1 mi (91.8 km) | 1 hr 48 min |
| Monroe | 59.4 mi (95.6 km) | 1 hr 51 min |
| Ferron | 61.8 mi (99.4 km) | 1 hr 55 min |
| Richfield | 63.3 mi (102 km) | 1 hr 57 min |
| Salina | 64.3 mi (103 km) | 1 hr 58 min |
| Aurora | 64.8 mi (104 km) | 1 hr 59 min |
| Castle Dale | 70.4 mi (113 km) | 2 hr 7 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Capitol Reef National Park?
Loa, about 29.2 mi (47 km) away — roughly 1 hr 2 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Capitol Reef National Park?
The practical bases are Loa, Junction, and Monroe — all within a reasonable drive of the park.