Capitol Gorge Trail
A historic canyon walk past pioneer inscriptions with an optional climb toward natural waterpockets.
Route overview
Capitol Gorge Trail in Utah.
The trail follows the old Capitol Gorge corridor beneath steep walls, passing preserved inscriptions before a short, rougher spur rises toward the Tanks.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Utah
- Distance
- 3.2 km
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- 24 m change
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- out-and-back
Safety context
Do not touch or add to inscriptions. Avoid the gorge during rain or upstream storms. The Tanks spur is steeper and rougher than the canyon floor. Verify Capitol Gorge Road before travel. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Do not touch or add to inscriptions. Avoid the gorge during rain or upstream storms. The Tanks spur is steeper and rougher than the canyon floor. Verify Capitol Gorge Road before travel.
Highlights
Capitol Gorge Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Pioneer Register, Utah canyon hike, NPS trail
Why find a buddy
Good for families and history-focused partners. Match on whether to include the Tanks spur, heat management and a strict flash-flood cancellation rule.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.