Follow a GPS‑triggered audio guide through Capitol Reef’s Waterpocket Fold at your own pace. The self‑guided driving tour highlights petroglyphs, orchards and slot canyons with offline narration and suggested itineraries for half‑ to multi‑day trips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You pull off Highway 24 and the road opens into wide red domes and layered cliffs; the GuideAlong audio announces a vista and the car becomes a small, moving theater. Rock faces shift color as the sun crawls across the valley and stories about Fremont petroglyph panels and Mormon orchards arrive just as you reach the turnoff.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–16 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; walking short trails or boardwalks is optional but helpful for viewpoints.
Wildlife
History
The Capitol Reef area preserves Fremont Culture sites and a small Mormon agricultural community at Fruita, where 19th‑century irrigation turned a desert riparian strip into orchards.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace, stay on designated roads and trails, and avoid touching petroglyphs; water is scarce—pack and dispose of waste responsibly.
Reserve your spot on the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Capitol Reef today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download before you go
Pre-download the GuideAlong app and the Capitol Reef tour over reliable Wi‑Fi so commentary plays offline when cell service drops.
Pack extra water and shade
Desert temperatures spike—carry at least 2 liters per person and sun protection even on short stops.
Watch weather for flash floods
Avoid hiking in slot canyons or dry washes if storms are forecast; flood risk can be sudden and severe.
Respect archaeological sites
Stay on boardwalks at petroglyph panels and don’t touch or remove artifacts to help preserve fragile cultural resources.
Smartphone with GuideAlong App
Runs the downloaded audio tour and triggers location‑based commentary.
USB‑C car charger and cable
Keeps your device charged for the full-day narration and GPS use.
Refillable water bottles (2L+ per person)
Sustains you during long driving days and short hikes in hot, dry conditions.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Protects against strong desert sun when stopping at viewpoints or walking trails.
summer