The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive will also take you through the Fruita District and will take you one hour or less to complete this eight-mile scenic drive. Again, your drive begins in the previously mentioned Fruita District. This time though it ends at Capitol Gorge Road.
There are numerous viewpoints along this drive that provide must-see views. The humble, unpaved Grand Wash Road gives you access to such noteworthy trails as the Cassidy Arch Trail. The Capitol Gorge Road goes on for another couple of miles after the official scenic drive ends.
In fact, the Capitol Gorge Trail offers the opportunity for crowd-free hiking. This is the only scenic drive that requires paid admission. Purchase a national park pass before you go or pay the $20.00 entry fee.
Travel to the Cathedral Valley District, north of the Fruita District. You will need between three to five hours for this one. Cathedral Valley is a remote, rugged district in the park.
The Temple of the Sun and Moon is one of Cathedral Valley’s best attractions. Get a good look at this pair of arrowhead-reminiscent giants towering over the arid desert landscape. The best time to visit is at sunrise when the rough rocks seem to come alive with bright orange and red reflections from the shining sun.
If you’re driving a four-by-four vehicle, do the entire 58-mile scenic drive. It’ll take about five hours to complete, and your vehicle will have to ford a river. If you only want to see the famous Temple of the Sun and Moon, take the Caineville Wash Road to Cathedral Road. That route will require three hours.