Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Capitol Reef

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Capitol Reef National Park

   As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

   480 minutes here

2. Capitol Gorge Trail

   Located at the end of the Scenic Drive, this 2.5 mile extension carries us through a steep-walled canyon, and also a journey through many millions of years of geological time. We will witness rock from times when this landscape alternated from ancient equatorial river plains, but also the planet's largest sand dune desert. At the end or the drive, an easy 1 mile return hike into the gorge is highly recommended. Note: The size restriction on the Gorge Road is 27 feet. Trailers have a location to detach before driving the spur road. Though the road is unpaved, it is well-maintained and suitable for regular vehicles.

   60 minutes here · Admission not included

3. Fruita Schoolhouse

   An easy highway pullout provides us with a quick and simple stop for a terrific photo of the century old schoolhouse - all one room of it. Complementary to the Schoolhouse and located a little further along the highway is another terrific example of the those earliest pioneers building - the Behunin family cabin.

   20 minutes here · Admission not included

4. Fruita

   Archeologists have found evidence of Native American cultures that occupied the Capitol Reef area for thousands of years. In the late 1800s, hardy and industrious Mormon settlers decided they could create a community cultivating fruit orchards, especially apples, but irrigating using ditches to draw water from the Fremont River. At its peak, Fruita was home for 10 families and is situated at the beginning of the Scenic Drive road. Today we can explore the few remaining, but preserved buildings and if we are there during fruit season, we are allowed to pick fruit to enjoy right from the trees.

   30 minutes here · Admission not included

5. Goosenecks Overlook

   For most of our visit, we will marvel at the rock layers and shapes of cliffs that rise around us. The Goosenecks viewpoint provides a different perspective where we can peer down into a steep and deep canyon. The oldest rock in the park has been exposed by the creek below. A short walk from Goosenecks takes us to the best sunset location that is easily accessible close to the main highway - but far enough way to enjoy the peacefulness.

   20 minutes here · Admission not included

6. Grand Wash Road

   A short unpaved spur road located midway along the Scenic Drive, Grand Wash gets us intimately close with the rock layers, which in places look like Swiss cheese. This canyon was once the hiding place for famous outlaws and you'll understand why it was a great place to stay out of the hands of those unwanted lawmen. Note: The size restriction on the Gorge Road is 27 feet. Though the road is unpaved, it is well-maintained and suitable for regular vehicles.

   Pass by without stopping

7. Grand Wash Trail

   Two excellent hikes are available from the end of the Grand Wash Spur Road. The first is a fairly strenuous climb to elevated locations where a view of Cassidy Arch can be enjoyed - as well as views across the valley. The much easier option, and arguably the best short hike in the park is to follow the Grand Wash Trail. This is a fairly easy introduction to slot canyoning, and at its most amazing point, has 800 foot walls rising above you where the canyon is only 15 feet wide. Do not hike this trail if rain is forecast or skies are threatening as flash flooding can be a genuine risk.

   60 minutes here · Admission not included

8. Fremont Petroglyphs

   From a very convenient highway parking area, it's a not-to-be-missed stop to view the incredible petroglyph panels from an easy boardwalk. Archeological evidence has revealed much about the Fremont Culture people, the name we have given as they inhabited sites along the reliable Fremont River.

   20 minutes here · Admission not included

9. Scenic Drive

   For just an 8 mile drive, this really packs a punch with many spectacular views and amazing layered rock formations. It is the true highlight of Capitol Reef as we experience the Waterpocket Fold, up close and personal. The official Scenic Drive is paved, and has two short spur roads that detour just short distances. Expect to spend a couple of hours enjoying sightseeing along the drive. Add more time if like taking a hike or two.

   Pass by without stopping

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide)

Know before you go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
• Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
• Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
• Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
• Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
• Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
• Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
• Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
• Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
• Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
• Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
• The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.

Photos

Traveler reviews

4 verified traveler reviews for Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Capitol Reef. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.