Definitely a strenuous hike on the way up, but totally do-able and worth it for the views. We were…read moreon a time crunch, so we didn't do the full hike - we just hiked up to chimney rock and back down instead of doing the full loop. So I imagine if you did the full loop the views would have been even more beautiful, but even the modified hike we did was amazing. Whenever I looked up hikes for Capitol Reef, this one was often overlooked, but after experiencing it, I feel it's one that should be included much more often. We did read in a couple places that this was good for sunset - we didn't get that chance, but I imagine it would be beautiful. Trail was not crowded at all, but there is little shade cover so be prepared with plenty of water and a hat.

I am very excited to talk about Chimney Rock Trail!!! Alright, I have been on hikes throughout the…read moreUnited States within all sorts of national parks, etc...but, I need to urge everyone who visit Capitol Reef...it is imperative for you to hike this Chimney Rock Trail! I am serious. Although I don't have an official ranking system, I'd place this hike at least within my Top 10 - 15 BEST HIKES OF ALL TIME! Everything about being here was simply epic. If you want to immerse yourself and understand the true power of what makes the state of Utah so famous for its colorful landscape terrains, then hiking Chimney Rock Trail will give you everything you could possibly ask for! Besides Angels Landing at Zion or the Queens Garden/Navajo Loop at Bryce...I'd then put Chimney Rock just behind them. It's a MUST SEE AND DO while here at Capitol Reef! Alright, enough gushing let me just go into details and what makes Chimney Rock special... Chimney Rock Trail is a very accessible and convenient 3.5 mile loop gaining almost 600 feet in elevation. I believe 3.5 miles is ideal in distance...not too long and not too short. Then, the maybe 580 feet in elevation is also perfect. It's not really difficult whatsoever but at the same making it to the plateau area along Chimney Rock instantly provides you with stunning views of the Capitol Reef landscape. Basically, you don't have to work hard along the hike. You're not huffing and puffing. It's extremely manageable. While reading the park pamphlet and hiking guide about Capitol Reef...it mentioned that coming here to Chimney Rock was worthwhile for hiking in late afternoon and during sunset time. I couldn't agree more with that! When I arrived, the sun was at my back which allowed for very clear photo taking opportunities of the grand setting from high above. Plus, when I was here back in late July of this year, 2021, the daytime temperatures were brutal ranging in the mid to upper 90's. Having the chance to hike here when things cooled down made a huge difference. Btw, I'd also like to point out the trailhead. Finding the start to Chimney Rock was very simple. It's located right off Highway 24 (the main road that cuts through the heart of Capitol Reef) as you're heading west from Torrey, UT going east. When I arrived in late afternoon the parking lot was empty and quiet. I was surprised by this because it specifically stated Chimney Rock was appropriate for hiking during sunsets. Good thing, better off in my opinion not having other tourists around. And, that was also another terrific aspect about exploring Chimney Rock. I was virtually the only hiker here! I had the entire trail to myself. I was grateful for this as it just allowed me to collect my thoughts and feel totally separated from reality. Before I give my interpretation of what Chimney Rock is all about...I'll just take a little highlighted piece from a page I found at americansouthwest.net/utah/capitol_reef/chimney-rock-trail.html... "Chimney Rock Trail is perhaps the best short path in the national park, as it is relatively short, not too steep, provides the shortest hike to a high elevation viewpoint, and passes varied surroundings; besides Chimney Rock itself, an eroded pillar of red sandstone, the trail encounters colorful badlands, tall cliffs, and the mouth of a narrow canyon." I really liked this introduction/description. Along the 3.5 miles...I couldn't stop taking pictures. Each curve I passed, each winding turn I crossed, each climb or descent I made...was another humbling chance for picture moments. I couldn't stop, like an addicted kid at a candy store, lol. Over the course of the hike it covered every nook and cranny within Capitol Reef Park you could ask for. Granted, I did the 8 mile Scenic Drive, I hiked other trails, I ventured all around... But coming here and along Chimney Rock I felt like I had found my calling, like I discovered true fulfilment and better understood why Capitol Reef is part of Utah's "Mighty 5". I'll admit, I had moments where I felt tears of joy because here I was standing high above the ground looking down upon glorious Capitol Reef, feeling like I'm a small piece in the big scheme of history. Having infinite time made me feel like I had paused all my worries and troubles and was living in a "dreamland of sandstone cliffs, badlands, multicolored boulders and vertical walls!" And eventually the pathway leads back down to the flat base section but you're still afforded more stunning mounds of colored shades of purple, red and brown. Every step along the way felt like a new adventure. I can't say enough good things about here along Chimney Rock Trail. And because I was so infatuated with the hike, I used every last bit of fading sun to enjoy my time. I probably stayed along the trail for at least 3+ hours until it was pitch dark out before returning back to the parking lot. Lastly, that's it. Can't say anymore. Chimney Rock Trail, memories that will live with me forever.

I combined the Rim Overlook trail with the trail to Hickman Bridge to get the most out of my hike…read more Unfortunately, the sky was threatining rain so I didn't want to risk it hiking to Navajo Knobs. The Hickman Natural Bridge is a 125-foot-tall natural bridge in Capitol Reef National Park. It's an 1.8 mile out-and-back trail, with some switchbacks, but it's an easy trail if you don't have any trouble climbing a few flights of stairs as baseline daily activity. The first part of the trail is the steepest with some stairs, but it gets more level afterwards as it follows a dry riverbed. You are hiking from the canyon floor to the rim! On the way up, you get to see the rock formation that reminded travelers of the Capitol dome that inspired part of the national park's name. It's a much better name than "Wayne Wonderland" which was what the region was called before it became a national park. The natural bridge is absolutely amazing. Climbing on it is prohibited, but you get to go up close and personal with the bridge to satisfy your photo-taking cravings. Vault toilets are at the trailhead, otherwise you're on your own.

This is a lovely hike. It's not too steep, not very hard, and the bridge is pretty massive and…read morebeautiful when you reach it! It was recommended to me by friends and the volunteer at the visitor center because it's easy to do in a short time/on a short trip. There was plenty of trailhead parking as well. Would definitely recommend if you're passing through Capitol reef NP!

Needed a few extra souvenirs, stopped here and was able to get t-shirts that are cute, fun and some…read morecool stickers and magnets!! I didn't stay at the hotel just shopped but they have a great selection!

Spent a week in Torrey, and stayed at Torrey Trading Post in one of their cabins. The cabin I…read morestayed in was well maintained and well furnished. The staff is very friendly! I would definitely stay here again.

Guess i'm here to raise the bar. An hour in and hour out to the Narrows…read more We liked it. It has rained , so a dry and wet trail. Towering canyon walls , balance boulder at at least one area. Pretty flat trail but be aware of a flash flood if it rains higher up. No way out!! Today, trail path and mud. No rain!!

This was not worth the hike. They should warn you if the river is dry there is actually nothing to…read moresee but a dry riverbed. Very disappointed that we choose that hike from the many options.

This is a small local village hotel. Nice inside, minimal…read moreart and i think the bed will be fine. it has a plastic mattress protector , hopefully it's not not noisy to lay on. UPDATE The bed crackles like plastic, so be still... mmm, direct t v, strong WIFI, But No Microwave oven and a tiny coffee maker.. The mattress was very good and two pillows each. So overall , a good stay. update great stay

Spent a night here after visiting Capitol Reef Nat'l park. It's a simple no frills motel located in…read moreBicknell, right across the post office. The room was a good sized room for a motel, tub is wide, soft towels, comfortable bed. Nice black out curtains. The bathroom is small but located away from the sleeping area. Downside is no closet and no table to put your stuff. The fridge had a tiny freezer shelf, no microwave. The owner was super nice! Very friendly and inquired about our trip. Good place for a nite or two in the area. Btw- the restaurant is no longer opened because the owner couldn't find any employees. What a shame!

Pretty standard visitor center with a ranger desk, exhibits, and a gift shop. The washrooms have a…read moreseparate entrance, but are in the same building. The rangers were very helpful about trail conditions as it had recently rained. They patrol the trails on a regular basis to make sure that no one is stuck and needing rescue. The exhibits discuss the geology of the area, covering information about the Waterpocket Fold which defines the distinctive landforms seen in the national park. They also discuss the flora and fauna in the area. I didn't see any animals during my visit, but that doesn't mean they're not there! I learned a lot from the easy to understand displays. The gift shop has the usual litany of items for sale- postcards, books, clothing, and even dog gear! Checkout was efficient.

This visitor center is very nice, and has tons of parking. It's easy to access just off the main…read moreroad by the entrance to the park (no pay station prior to entering). The volunteers were very helpful and they have several types of maps. Really appreciated the recs they gave for a short trip! The bathrooms are clean too, and plenty of parking right out front. The views on the way in and near the center itself are also exceptional; even if you don't have time to do almost any hiking you can get some great pics there!

What a great day we had riding horses right in Capital Reef National Park! Marylou was so helpful…read moremaking our reservations and answering all our questions. Brett was our guide, he treated us like family (the kind you like) we had a blast with him, he was knowledgeable about the area and his love for the horses really showed. The horses were so well cared for and happy. They were fun and easy to ride. You will not be disappointed booking with them!

Very flexible. Storms were threatening, and Mike allowed us to push back our ride by an hour and a…read morehalf to allow things to clear up. We received great riding instructions, the views from the trail were spectacular, and we even saw a rattlesnake and coyote along the way. We could have done without the ten minute Toby Keith lesson or the political commentary. That partially ruined the experience for me. Giving two stars since the business owner likes to leave nasty replies to honest reviews. Not a great way to run a business.

Large very clean room with shower that has good pressure and consistent hot water. As much as the…read morerooms are quality the staff is even more so. I had a couple of small problems they helped out with. The rate for the room is very friendly and provides value.

After spending a day at Capitol Reef National Park, I needed a room for the night for myself and my…read moredog, but Torrey is quite pricey, so figured one night here would be just fine. Unfortunately is was a bit short of fine. The room is a little expensive considering you just get a bed, small TV, dining table, mini fridge, shower, and super noisy air unit which is stashed away in the corner. Very dated property and rooms. The bed was decently comfortable but that's basically all you're paying for. They do have a covered pool if that's your jam. Expensive pet fee for one night and they wouldn't waive for a support animal. No breakfast. And the biggest gripe -- wifi did not work at all despite their crappy marquee saying they offer it. The front desk said he tried resetting it but still didn't work. So didn't even get the full value of the overpriced stay. Also for pet owners, be aware it's just a dirt lot with almost no grass area. Keep your eyes peeled for broken glass too. Pass on this one.