Capitol Reef · January
Capitol Reef in January
January is one of the best times to visit Capitol Reef — quieter than December, about as busy as February.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 8% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Jul 2026 · alerts checked Jul 10, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical January visits vs. the year
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
January weather
- Avg high
- 41°F
- Avg low
- 21°F
- Precipitation
- 0.6"
- Sunrise
- 7:40 AM
- Sunset
- 5:29 PM
- Daylight
- 9.8h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, CAPITOL REEF NP, UT US
What's open
Capitol Reef in January: 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.
Seasonal closures may apply:
- Park Closure
Annual/Seasonal Canyoneering Closures
The following are closed to entry through 8/31/2026 to protect sensitive resources: the heads of Fivemile Wash & Burro Wash descending east 2 miles; Shinob Canyon + all routes descending into Shinob (including Na-gah, Nighthawk, & Timpie); and Arch Nemesis Canyon, including the route exiting at Capitol Gorge + all direct tributary canyons.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Information
Special Use Permits
Special Use Permits are typically needed for activities that benefit a specific group. Examples include: Groups of 40 or more, trips organized by scouting groups, churches, or academic institutions, photography, weddings, and first amendment activities
Details on nps.gov → - Information
Reef Ride Bike Days 2026
For this special event in honor of National Public Lands Day, the Scenic Drive will be closed to motor vehicles for part of the day on Saturday, September 19 and Saturday, September 26, 2026. The road will be closed to vehicles from sunrise to 3 pm to allow for bicycles and pedestrians to enjoy the road at a more leisurely pace. The main road through the park (UT highway 24) - will remain open and unaffected by this closure.
Details on nps.gov → - Park Closure
Annual/Seasonal Canyoneering Closures
The following are closed to entry through 8/31/2026 to protect sensitive resources: the heads of Fivemile Wash & Burro Wash descending east 2 miles; Shinob Canyon + all routes descending into Shinob (including Na-gah, Nighthawk, & Timpie); and Arch Nemesis Canyon, including the route exiting at Capitol Gorge + all direct tributary canyons.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Elevated E. Coli levels - Fremont River
Recent water quality testing shows elevated E. coli levels in the Fremont River. Use caution if entering the water. Do not get water in your mouth, do not swim. Wash hands with soap and water.
- Information
Stage II Fire Restrictions
Stage II fire restrictions are in effect until further notice. Campfires including charcoal are not permitted, even in established fire rings. Smoking is only permitted within an enclosed vehicle. Gas or liquid fueled portable camp stoves are still permitted.
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Capitol Reef crowds across the year
FAQ
Capitol Reef in January
How busy is Capitol Reef in January?
January rates 1/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Capitol Reef National Park — about 8% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 16,138.
What is the weather like at Capitol Reef in January?
In January, Capitol Reef averages a high of 41°F and a low of 21°F, with about 0.6 inches of precipitation.