Capitol Reef National Park seeks public input on expanded recreation, facility upgrades

Views along Scenic Drive in Capitol Reef National Park. Photo: NPS Photo

TORREY, Utah — Capitol Reef National Park is often considered the “hidden gem” of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks, receiving fewer visitors but offering a quieter, more relaxed, and historic experience. Now, the park is asking for the public’s help as it explores ways to expand recreational access, improve connectivity, and modernize aging facilities and infrastructure.

The National Park Service is seeking ideas and feedback on preliminary strategies aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while preserving the park’s natural and cultural resources, according to a recent park release. Officials say the planning effort will focus on improving recreational opportunities, addressing parking and roadway congestion, and upgrading visitor services in high-use areas.

Examples of potential strategies include developing new trails to better connect historic sites and popular trailheads, as well as improving parking and visitor amenities in key locations. Park leaders say public input will help shape the direction of future improvements and ensure changes align with community values and conservation priorities.

Community members can review project goals, explore proposed concepts, and submit comments online now through April 3 at the NPS project website.

In addition to online feedback, the park will host two public meetings where attendees can learn more about the planning process and ask questions directly to park staff.

• A virtual public meeting will take place on March 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Participants can join via a Microsoft Teams link available on the project webpage.
• An in-person open house is scheduled for March 19 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Torrey Park Pavilion, 95 E. 100 North in Torrey. The open house format will allow attendees to drop in, review materials, and speak with park representatives.

Park officials encourage visitors, residents, and stakeholders to participate in the process as they work to balance growing visitation with long-term stewardship of one of Utah’s iconic national parks.