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.
Capitol Reef National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park sits close enough to Canyonlands National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Canyonlands National Park | 67.3 mi (108 km) | 2 hr 3 min |
| Bryce Canyon National Park | 70.2 mi (113 km) | 2 hr 7 min |
| Arches National Park | 92.7 mi (149 km) | 2 hr 39 min |
| Zion National Park | 120 mi (193 km) | 3 hr 18 min |
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 |
| 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 |
| Castle Dale | 70.4 mi (113 km) | 2 hr 7 min |
| Orangeville | 71.2 mi (115 km) | 2 hr 8 min |
| Centerfield | 72.9 mi (117 km) | 2 hr 11 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 Ferron — all within a reasonable drive of the park.