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Capitol Reef · July
July is a good time to visit Capitol Reef — quieter than June, about as busy as August.
Expect moderate crowds (6/10), highs near 91°F, about 14.6 hours of daylight, and 1 seasonal closure in effect.
Crowd score
A comfortable middle ground: some company on popular trails, but no gridlock.
About 58% 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
July draws about 9% 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
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, CAPITOL REEF NP, UT US
What's open
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:
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
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 →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 →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 →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.
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
Alternatives
FAQ
July rates 6/10 for crowds (Moderate) at Capitol Reef National Park — about 58% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 121,098.
In July, Capitol Reef averages a high of 91°F and a low of 65°F, with about 1.0 inches of precipitation.
Entrance to Capitol Reef costs $20 (An entrance fee is charged per vehicle.).
A reservation may be required: 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 Confirm current requirements on nps.gov before you visit.
Capitol Reef is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
In mid-July, Capitol Reef gets about 14.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 5:14 AM and sunset around 7:47 PM.