Capitol Reef · August
Capitol Reef in August
August is a good time to visit Capitol Reef — about as busy as July, quieter than September.
Expect moderate crowds (6/10), highs near 88°F, and about 13.6 hours of daylight.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
A comfortable middle ground: some company on popular trails, but no gridlock.
About 53% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 18, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical August visits vs. the year
August draws about 8% of Capitol Reef’s yearly visitors.
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
August weather
- Avg high
- 88°F
- Avg low
- 63°F
- Precipitation
- 1.1"
- Sunrise
- 5:40 AM
- Sunset
- 7:18 PM
- Daylight
- 13.6h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, CAPITOL REEF NP, UT US
What's open
Capitol Reef in August: access
Capitol Reef is a 24 hour park, open all day, every day. The visitor center is open daily, except for some major holidays. Visitor center hours vary, call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current visitor center information.
No seasonal road or area closures reported for this park.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Caution
Monsoon Season & Flash Floods
Heavy rains can cause sudden flooding, especially in canyons and washes. Do not drive or hike through flood waters. Get to high ground and wait for floods to subside. Some roads may close temporarily; closures are posted at the visitor center.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Elevated E. Coli levels - Fremont River and Sulphur Creek
Recent water quality testing shows elevated E. coli levels in the Fremont River and Sulphur Creek. A warning advisory has been issued by the Utah DEQ. Use caution if entering the water. Do not get water in your mouth, do not swim. Wash hands with soap and water.
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Capitol Reef crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in August
FAQ
Capitol Reef in August
How busy is Capitol Reef in August?
August rates 6/10 for crowds (Moderate) at Capitol Reef National Park — about 53% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 109,176.
What is the weather like at Capitol Reef in August?
In August, Capitol Reef averages a high of 88°F and a low of 63°F, with about 1.1 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Capitol Reef?
Entrance to Capitol Reef costs $20 (An entrance fee is charged per vehicle.).
When is Capitol Reef least crowded?
Capitol Reef is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
How many hours of daylight does Capitol Reef get in August?
In mid-August, Capitol Reef gets about 13.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 5:40 AM and sunset around 7:18 PM.