UTV & Fly Fishing Adventures with Capitol Reef Outfitters - Grand Junction, CO

UTV & Fly Fishing Adventures with Capitol Reef Outfitters

Grand Junction, COmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for average fitness levels; some physical endurance needed for handling ATV terrain and casting for fly fishing.

Overview

Capitol Reef Outfitters provides guided UTV tours and fly fishing expeditions near Capitol Reef National Park. Discover thrilling rides and peaceful fishing lakes in southern Utah’s dramatic landscape.

Details

Situated near the striking canyons and sweeping red rock formations of southern Utah, Capitol Reef Outfitters offers an adventure firming up outdoor experiences that connect you to the rugged beauty of the Capitol Reef region. Based out of Torrey, UT, just a short drive from Capitol Reef National Park, this outfitter crafts trips that bring you face-to-face with the raw landscapes of the Colorado Plateau, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Capitol Reef’s signature experiences include guided fly fishing on mountain lakes ringing the high country at elevations around 8,000 feet. Anglers can expect to encounter vibrant rainbow and tiger trout in crystal-clear waters, with expert guides imparting knowledge about local fish behavior and casting techniques. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned fly fisherman, the patient instruction and well-choreographed outings make for a memorable day on the water.

If two wheels and throttle thrills are more your style, Capitol Reef Outfitters’ ATV and UTV tours navigate the dramatic terrain of the Bentonite Hills and surrounding ridges. Guided rides range from family-friendly outings to more spirited tours demanding attentive handling. Highlights often include sunset vistas with expansive views of desert landscapes that change color with the light and stops that reveal local geology and native plants. Guides share insights into the land’s formation and ecology, enriching the ride with context and storytelling.

What sets Capitol Reef Outfitters apart is the blend of tailored adventure with deep knowledge of the region’s geology and ecology, paired with a warm, approachable team who make safety and fun a priority. This makes it ideal for families, novices, and outdoor adventurers aiming to go beyond the typical tourist route in Utah’s red rock country. Capitol Reef Outfitters holds its place as a distinctive gateway to engaging with one of America’s less crowded but stunning national parks.

For outdoor travelers based near Grand Junction, CO, or Salt Lake City, Capitol Reef Outfitters provides a convenient and thrilling way to add hands-on adventure to any Utah itinerary.

Adventure Tips

Know Your Limits on the UTV Trails

ATV and UTV terrains can be steep and uneven; follow your guide’s instructions carefully and communicate your comfort level.

Bring Water and Sun Protection

The Utah desert can be unforgiving; carry plenty of sunscreen and water, even on short trips.

Wear Layered Clothing

Temperatures can shift quickly in the high desert, so layers help keep you comfortable throughout your trip.

Respect the Wildlife and Plantlife

Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing native plants or animals to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • A quiet backcountry pond known for abundant trout just outside of main park trails
  • A scenic ridge overlooking the Bentonite Hills that offers panoramic sunset views without the crowds

Wildlife

  • Mule deer often spotted grazing near water
  • Golden eagles soaring above the canyons

History

Capitol Reef National Park preserves an area once inhabited by Native American Fremont culture and later Mormon settlers, with the park officially designated in 1971.

Conservation

Guides emphasize low-impact travel and encourage practices that protect fragile desert soils and native flora.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunset
Early morning light
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Bentonite Hills ridges along the ATV trails
  • Fishing spots along the mountain lakes around 8,000 feet
  • Sunset overlooks visible near the UTV tour stops

What to Photograph

Red rock formations under changing light
Trout in crystal-clear waters
Expansive desert skies and distant mountain ridges

Recommended Gear

Closed-Toe Sturdy Shoes

Essential

Protects your feet during ATV rides and provides good footing while fishing.

Sunscreen

Essential

Intense desert sun requires high SPF protection on exposed skin.

spring|summer|fall specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable as temperatures swing between cool mornings and warm afternoons.

spring|fall|winter specific

Fishing Hat or Cap

Shields your face and eyes from glare while on the water.

summer|spring specific

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