Capture Capitol Reef’s dramatic cliffs and desert skies on guided sunrise, sunset, and astro photography tours. Expect short, deliberate walks to hand-picked viewpoints, focused instruction, and dark skies for Milky Way shots.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn arrives cold and sharp behind the two-thousand-foot cliffs of the Waterpocket Fold as your guide scopes a composition—reddish Wingate sandstone catching first light, a Fremont River bend threading the valley below. You move between short, firm footpaths and pullouts, each stop chosen for light, angle, and a clean foreground that foregrounds Utah’s layered geology.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking ability with the capacity to stand and carry gear for several short excursions; suitable for most fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
The Waterpocket Fold is a prominent monocline formed during the Laramide orogeny; the Capitol Reef area also preserves Fremont cultural sites and later Mormon settlement routes.
Conservation
Night sky preservation is important—use red lights during astro sessions and avoid light pollution. Practice Leave No Trace on shorelines and pullouts to protect fragile desert soils and cryptobiotic crusts.
Reserve your spot on the Capitol Reef Photography Tours today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early for Light Checks
Plan to arrive 15–30 minutes before scheduled shoot times to let your eyes adapt and test horizons before peak light.
Bring a Sturdy Tripod
Long exposures, low light and astro shots demand a solid tripod to avoid blur; small tabletop supports won’t cut it.
Layer for Temperature Swings
Desert mornings and nights are cold even after warm days—pack an insulating midlayer and wind shell.
Carry Water and Snacks
Short walks are easy but the sun is strong; bring at least 1 liter of water and a light snack to maintain focus.
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
A camera with manual controls for shutter, aperture and ISO to learn composition and exposure.
Sturdy Tripod
Required for low-light, long exposures and astro photography to keep images sharp.
Wide-to-Tele Zoom Lens (e.g., 16–70mm + 70–200mm option)
Flexibility to capture sweeping landscapes and compressed cliff details without swapping lenses constantly.
Insulating Layers and Sun Protection
Layering keeps you comfortable in cool dawns and warm afternoons; include hat and sunscreen for midday shoots.
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