Capitol Reef National Park is located in Utah’s south-central desert. It’s situated around a long crease in the earth, known as the Waterpocket Fold, and is surrounded by layers of golden Sandstone, canyons, and striking rock formations. Some of the highlights in the park are Chimney Rock’s pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and Capitol Reef, known for its white domes of sandstone. To the north are the massive Monoliths in Cathedral Valley.

Capitol Reef, Utah — a photographer’s paradise! Here are some of the top photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. It’s truly breathtaking. Being there, overlooking the vast landscape, felt like the best type of therapy for anyone. It’s a place that uplifts your soul and lets you be completely present at this moment. If you’re planning on visiting Capitol Reef or live nearby, here are 35 of the top photography spots.

The top camera equipment for taking photographs at Capitol Reef National Park

We recommend a top-quality camera, and is one among the holy trinity. A wide-angle lens. 14-24mm or something similar. The 24-70mm or something similar, and 70-200mm or something similar.

If you do not have the lens you require, don’t fret. This lens will be able to perform the job. A tripod is suggested for taking stunning images of sunsets and nights.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

1. Castle in Capitol Reef National Park

The Castle is a 6,387-foot summit in Capitol Reef National Park in Wayne County, Utah, United States. This iconic landmark is situated 0.5 mi immediately north of the park’s visitor center, towering nearly 800 feet above the center and Utah State Route 24. Castle has been one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park for many years. With amazing views and large red rock formations, it is a must-see for anyone visiting the park.

2. Twin Rocks at Capitol Reef

On Highway 24, you will come across two huge, mushroom-shaped rocks in a row after entering the park from Torrey. They are known as the Twin Rocks, one of the many fascinating things you’ll discover throughout the park. Twin Rocks, one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park, is located near a small settlement called Bullet Canyon. It’s almost like two giant lollipops with a slice down the middle, as if a vast knife sliced them. These rocks are only about 10 feet apart and form one of the most well-recognized landmarks in Southern Utah.

3. Cassidy Arch

Cassidy Arch is located in the middle of Capitol Reef National Park, specifically inside the western wall of Grand Wash, beside the Scenic Drive. It is an extension of the Frying Pan Trail, a trail that ascends to the northeast of the Waterpocket Fold before dropping down into Cohab Canyon and onto Highway 24. Cassidy Arch is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. Located on the western Scenic Drive, it’s south of Mossy Cave and north of Burr Trail Road. If you are visiting during sunset, you will want to be there 30 minutes before or after to see the arch as it passes through different colors at different times.

4. Morrell Line Cabin

This cabin is located within the boundaries of Capitol Reef National Park, which means that it is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected wilderness. Whether you are snowboarding or rock climbing, hiking or camping, our cabins offer comfortable accommodations right at your doorstep.

5. Cathedral Valley

The Cathedral Valley is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. If you enjoy views and landscapes, this is a place for you. The valley consists of layered sandstone domes and cliffs shaped by wind and water over time. The desert floor is home to many unique plants, animals, and birds, one of the most notable.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

6. Gifford Farm Barn

Gifford Farm Barn is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The barn itself dates back to the 1890s and is made of stone, but the Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt it in the 1930s. In addition to being a fantastic photo opp with its interplay of textures and colors, this spot also provides excellent views of both Cathedral Valley and the town of Fruita, as well as other areas within Capitol Reef National Park.

7. Bridge Over the Fermont River

The Bridge Over the Fermont River is a must-see camera spot in Capitol Reef National Park. Whether you’re visiting in the spring or fall when the leaves and waterfalls are at their peak, the bridge is one of the best photography spots to take pictures of exceptional canyon scenery.

8. Capitol Reef Sandstone Mountain

The Capitol Reef Sandstone Mountain is one of the most sought-after locations in Capitol Reef National Park, and for a good reason. This rock formation attracts photographers worldwide for its stunning reds, pinks, oranges, and browns. If you go to this popular spot, be sure to bring a zoom lens because there are many places from which to capture spectacular panoramic views that stretch far beyond the edge of this rugged landscape.

9. Fremont River Waterfall

The Fremont River Waterfall is one of my favorite photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The short hike from the pullout to the falls is easy but can be pretty muddy, depending on the weather. The waterfall close to mile marker 86 of State Highway 24 in Capitol Reef National Park was built in 1962 after the river was diverted to allow the development of Highway 24. Ever since its creation, the waterfall has been a beautiful spot for recreationists and swimmers.

10. Hickman Natural Bridge 

Hickman Bridge, a natural bridge on Cedar Canyon, is one of the most photographed locations in Capitol Reef National Park. The bridge is 15 feet wide and 40 feet high, with a protective railing so visitors can safely walk underneath. The stunning red rock formations featured in many Utah landscapes complement this outstanding natural landmark.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

11. Panorama Point

Panorama Point is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. Not only is it beautiful landscape photography, but there are also unique geological formations and rock art panels nearby. It is a broad, flat area overlooking a vast expanse of the Waterpocket Fold, and there’s plenty to see on the horizon. You can stop here for lunch; picnic tables near the viewpoint.

12. Historical Petroglyphs Panels

Petroglyphs Panels is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. It is a large rock covered with ancient petroglyphs that represent many different symbols used during ancient times. The location provides a stunning view of the park and includes hiking trails for those wishing to explore further.

13. Fruita Campground

The Fruita Campground is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The Fruita Campground has a unique, historic charm, including an old barn and private cabins. Located near the center of Capitol Reef, the beautiful Fruita Campground is often called the best campground within a national park.

14. Cathedral Valley

Cathedral Valley, one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park, is filled with sandstone rock formations that are as colorful and brilliant as any painting. You might imagine seeing them from a distance, or even through a veil of haze – but nothing prepares you for the experience of being there.

15. Temple of the Sun and Moon

The Temple of the Sun and Moon is one of the best photography spots I have ever seen. It is located in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah. There are several great vantage points to photograph this formation, but it is best if you hike down into the canyon to get some unique perspective shots.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

16. Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is one of the most photographed sites in Capitol Reef National Park. Named for its chimney-like rock formations, Chimney Rock can be accessed via a short hike and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Be prepared to make the hike during sunrise or sunset to get some fantastic pictures of the red rocks that give this spot its name.

17. Grand Wash trail

The Grand Wash trail is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. Located near Waterpocket Fold, the Grand Wash trail offers a sweeping vista across the expanse of red rocks and juniper trees. On clear days, visitors may even glimpse distant mountains in Utah or Arizona.

18. Sunset Point

Sunset Point is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The panoramic views from this location are spectacular and will leave you speechless. The sunsets make this place shine but are prepared for some cold temperatures, so you will want to pack warm clothes and a good flashlight.

19. Capitol Gorge Road

The trip to Capitol Gorge is one of the best photographic opportunities in Capitol Reef National Park. Located on a rough dirt road, it’s a walk back in time. The landscape is incredible and dramatically beautiful. You will want to spend a lot of time here!

20. Behunin Cabin

The Behunin Cabin sits on the plateau overlooking Capitol Reef National Park and is one of the best photography spots in the park. The cabin is a great place to stay while exploring Capitol Reef National Park’s lush canyons, impressive arches, and beautiful desert landscapes.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

21. Burr Trail 

Burr Trail is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. Burr Trail offers a warm welcome to photographers, hikers, and other adventurers with its white rock cliffs, towering pinnacles, and lily-pad-filled ponds. The view from the Burr Trail Overlook is breathtaking!

22. Burr Trail Capital Reef Scenic Drive

The Burr Trail Scenic Drive is a 36-mile 58 km road that starts in Capitol Reef National Park and ends at Boulder, Utah. The road was built by miners to haul iron ore from the mines around Ferron, Utah. It is known as one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park for scenic views such as lace curtains and hoodoos.

23. Strike Valley Overlook

Strike Valley Overlook is an easy hike in Capitol Reef National Park. You will get to experience the awe-inspiring landscape of the park, see a beautiful panoramic view, and have plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos.

24. Slickrock Divide

Slickrock Divide is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The exquisite scenery is enough to make any photographer’s eyes bulge out of their head, but that’s not all! When you’re done soaking in the view, there are plenty of other things to do, including hiking through side canyons and exploring slot canyons.

24. Lower South Desert Overlook 

One of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park, South Desert Overlook, is an easy drive from the Visitors Center. During the fall, this overlook provides views of hundreds of acres filled with blazing red aspens and golden grasses. This is a great place to watch for wildlife, including mule deer. The area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and backpacking.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

26. Cohab Canyon Trail

Cohab Canyon offers one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. Named for its resemblance to a large cohab, it is home to a fascinating world of rocks, arches, and a distant desert landscape. You’ll want to spend a good chunk of time here.

27. Muley Twist Arch 

Muley Twist Arch is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park if you love photography. This unique feature is located at the end of a long, narrow twisting slot canyon. Unique details line the rock walls as you climb down into the canyon. The Muley Twist Arch is spectacular to see from above and a photographer’s delight when exploring it from below.

28. Gamma Double Arch

Gamma Double Arch is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. The arches are situated on a red slick rock mesa and sit at the base of a vertical sandstone cliff. Hikers will enjoy the moderate hike to reach these grand arches and a small parking area right next to them.

29. Trinity Arch Panorama

Trinity Arch Panorama is the most photographed spot in Capitol Reef National Park and with good reason. This panoramic view from a popular hike leads you through a pine tree forest and offers beautiful views of the canyon far below. The arch and other landmarks in this landscape are often reflected in still pools of water and framed by dramatic rock formations. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better photo op than this one!

30. Fluted  Wall

One of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park, Fluted Wall, is an extraordinarily scenic area with a fantastic view from multiple angles and locations. With ample parking space, this location offers restrooms and picnic tables for eating lunch before setting off on your hike.

Capitol Reef National Park Photos

31. Headquarters Canyon

Headquarters Canyon is one of the best photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park. This canyon is located in a remote area with some of the most stunning views. From the towering cliffs to the clear water above, you’ll be amazed by just how beautiful it can all be.

32. Desert Landscape at North Caineville Mesa

This is one of the prettiest spots in Capitol Reef to photograph the sunset and sunrise. A variety of colors pop out due to the contrasting rock layers, which are visible from North Caineville Mesa. The mesa partially obscures the view behind it, making it more impressive than it already is.

33. Capitol Dome

The most beautiful color of the Capitol Dome, which is the top of Cathedral Mountain, is seen when it’s lit up at sunrise and sunset. This is a must-go place for photographers who love taking photos of beautiful scenes.

34. Pectols Pyramid

Pectols Pyramid is an elevation of 6,211 feet situated within Capitol Reef National Park, located in Wayne County of Utah, United States. The iconic landmark is located about 2 miles southeast of the visitor center and 1 mile to the south of Navajo Dome, and 0.5 miles south of Capitol Dome.

35. Frying Pan Trail

The Frying Pan Trail in Capitol Reef National Park will take guests from the top of Grand Wash and the Cassidy Arch Trail through the Waterpocket Fold and down into the Fremont River Canyon, which runs along Highway 24. The trail is a straight line across to the summit of the Fold instead of traversing it like other trails within the park.

These are the 35 Photography Locations in Capitol Reef National Park 

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