Across the vast face of the bastion and bulwark formations of Cook's Mesa, wet iron-stained sandstone glistened against the stark contrast of patchy snowflake crystals. Capitol Reef Winter breezes scattered the frozen powder as the morning sun warmed the rock just enough to begin the melting process, subsequently leaving the perception of a dusting of powdered sugar across a rich red-velvet cake. This is just one description of the results of snowfall in Utah's Capitol Reef National Park.
What's In A Name?
Situated primarily within Utah's Wayne County, Capitol Reef National Park was first referred to as Wayne's Wonderland by the pioneers who settled in the region in the 1860's and 70's. It wasn't until 1937 that the park was designated a National Monument and then in 1975 it officially became Utah's fifth national park.
Wonder In The Capitol Reef Winter
Wayne County boasts elevations that range from 3,700' to over 11,000', and this diversity creates many different winter weather conditions. Wayne County, also known under the moniker of Capitol Reef Country, could be described as a giant door-stop wedge that flows downhill from the western highlands to the desert lowlands in the east. Naturally the highest elevations of Boulder Mountain (over 11,000') and Thousand Lakes Mountain are blanketed with snow in winter, while the lower east desert rarely sees snow that lasts for long. Capitol Reef National Park winter is frequently dusted with snow that most often resembles a thin variegated layer of vanilla frosting.
In And Around The Park
Utah is blessed to now have five officially designated national parks and, were they located in another state, there are many other areas that could easily qualify for a similar classification. The geographic center of Utah's five national parks is Capitol Reef, a 70 mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust with equally incredible surrounding landscapes that have acquired such descriptive names as Mars, Bicknell Bottoms, The Moonscape, and The Dirty Devil.
Exploring Capitol Reef In Winter
Upper Reaches of Wayne County: Prepare your Capitol Reef National Park winter attire, as you normally would, for the higher elevations. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking amidst the pines and aspens while taking in the views of distant valleys, canyons, and mountain ranges.
Capitol Reef: If you're walking, and the sun is shining, you'll want to wear layers that are easily removed and carried, but bring a neck-buff, gloves, and a warm beanie that will fit well in a light day-pack. Bear in mind that any destination can bring weather challenges so adjust your attire, and your outdoor excursion plans accordingly.
East Desert: As long as there hasn't been significant moisture, then the flat-lands, canyons, and plateaus of this segment of Capitol Reef Country are perfect for exploration. Even for Capitol Reef in winter, daytime temperatures can be in the 40's, and 50's, and conducive to traveling in open-air vehicles when attired in appropriate clothing. In the crossroads desert community of Hanksville you'll find UTV Rentals (HanskvilleTours.com) that will enable you to explore the terrain surrounding Factory Butte, Robbers Roost, Poison Springs, and the San Rafael Swell.
Our Recommendations For Capitol Reef in Winter
Snowshoe / Cross-Country Skiing: If you're into snowshoeing and cross-country skiing then Boulder Mountain and Thousand Lakes Mountain are the answers. Boulder Mountain is a vast mountain with a plateau that ranges from 10,000' to 11,000' in elevation. There are 80 lakes across this plateau and there are many routes that lead from the lower surrounding plains and valleys to the top of the mountain.
Winter Hiking: Sunny days can quickly melt and dry trails inside Capitol Reef National Park, and because the wind is less likely to blow at Capitol Reef in winter, hiking conditions can be quite ideal. Indeed, it can be the best time of year for hiking as you are less likely to overheat, and you'll find very few people on the trail.
Winter Off-Road Exploration: East of Capitol Reef are destinations such as Moonscape Overlook, Mars, Silver Spire, The Dirty Devil, Goblin Valley, and other lower-elevation destinations that receive little moisture and are visually stunning experiences. As long as there is no recent moisture on the ground, then off-road exploration and subsequent hiking through canyons or to lookout points will be highly rewarding.
Photography: There are few places in the world that offer the diversity of natural landscapes and formations that are found in this area. As with all best photography tips, you'll find the long shadows, and soft lighting of Capitol Reef winter mornings and late afternoons to be the best time for your photography. Remember that Capitol Reef winter days are shorter in their duration, and that the cooler times of the day are also most likely to be in early morning, so bundle up and bring along a pair of fold-back finger mittens that will enable you quick finger-touch access to operate your camera. It's wise to also bring along a headlamp for early or late navigation on trails and viewpoints. The crisp Capitol Reef winter air can provide longer and more clear views of the distant mountains and don't be surprised if you're able to see things that are over 100 miles away.
Capitol Reef Winter Guest Services Be aware that there are some restaurants and lodging that take off-season and holiday vacation breaks and so check ahead for available lodging - hotels, motels, cabins, vacation rentals, and dining, and groceries. If you need groceries, then the best options are in the towns of Loa, Torrey, Hanksville, or Green River. Add Bicknell to this list for towns that offer lodging, and dining services, but again it's important to look in advance to see who is, or isn't open during your visit. Follow this next link for guided outdoor adventures and activities. You'll love the quieter experience that can be found during the months of November, December, January and February in Capitol Reef Country.
