More Information about Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef National Park is a geological and cultural treasure located in south-central Utah. The park is named after the white sandstone dome formations that resemble the United States Capitol building, and the “reef” refers to the rocky cliffs that form a barrier to travel through the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth’s surface).
The area now known as Capitol Reef National Park has a long and varied history. The first humans to inhabit the area were Native Americans, including the Fremont culture. The Fremont people left behind petroglyphs and pictographs (rock art) that can still be seen in the park today. In addition to its rich Native American history, Capitol Reef National Park is home to the historic Fruita Rural Historic District. Fruita was settled in the late 1800s by Mormon pioneers who were seeking to establish a farming community in the desert. The pioneers built irrigation systems and planted orchards, and Fruita became known for its delicious fruit, including apples, peaches, and pears.
The park is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The high desert climate supports a variety of plants, including cactus, yucca, and Joshua trees. Wildlife in the park includes mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, pronghorns, and a variety of birds. Geologically, Capitol Reef National Park is a treasure trove of information about the earth’s history. The park is located in the Waterpocket Fold, a belt of rocky cliffs and ridges that were formed by the collision of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This collision caused the land to fold and lift, creating the stunning cliffs and rock formations that can be seen in the park today.
Capitol Reef National Park is a beautiful and fascinating place with a rich history and diverse natural surroundings. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in geology, history, or the natural world. The Fruita Rural Historic District, with its historic orchards and the Gifford House museum, offers a unique glimpse into the park’s history and the lives of the pioneers who settled in the area.
Average Temperatures + Precipitation for Capitol Reef National Park
*Based on weather data from the National Park Service
Month |
High (°F) |
Low (°F) |
Precip (in) |
January |
41 |
20 |
0.52 |
February |
47 |
26 |
0.54 |
March |
58 |
34 |
0.48 |
April |
65 |
39 |
0.51 |
May |
74 |
48 |
0.63 |
June |
87 |
58 |
0.35 |
July |
91 |
65 |
1.05 |
August |
88 |
63 |
1.14 |
September |
80 |
55 |
0.97 |
October |
66 |
43 |
0.85 |
November |
51 |
31 |
0.51 |
December |
40 |
21 |
0.35 |