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The Castle

The Castle at Capitol Reef National Park near Fruita, Utah is a 0.1-mile out-and-back walk that leads to a viewpoint of the natural rock formation known as The Castle.

This is not a hike but rather a short walk along a roadside stop that leads to the western-most viewpoint of The Castle. Note that there's another, smaller, parking turnout located on the East side of The Castle, which is arguably nicer depending on the time of day / natural lighting, but does provide a different view and perspective of this interesting rock formation. The Castle towers over UT-24 and is not easy to miss as you're driving the route through Capitol Reef National Park. This stop includes additional signage, with an arrow, to ensure you know which rock formation to look at.

Parking
Visitors will find a large parking turnout at the coordinates provided, located on the south side of UT-24.

Pets
Dogs are allowed here and at other public parking lots within the park. Dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after. Please read more about Capitol Reef National Park's pet rules.
Explore 20 trails near Fruita, UT

Know Before You Go

  • The Castle viewpoint in Capitol Reef National Park is a very short, accessible roadside walk (0.1 miles roundtrip) to view the iconic rock formation.
  • There are two parking areas to view The Castle, one larger on the west side and a smaller one on the east side, each offering different perspectives.
  • Dogs on leashes are allowed at The Castle viewpoint and in other public parking areas within Capitol Reef National Park, with owners responsible for cleanup.
Interactive topographic map for The Castle located in Fruita, UT. Click the "View Map" button to load GPS coordinates and trail markers.
Get directions
Distance
0.1 mi
Difficulty
Easy
Type
Out-and-Back
Est. Time
5 min
Elev. Gain
6'
Rating
0.0
Added
September 26, 2023
Updated
October 04, 2023

Weather Forecast

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Total Change
5'
Ascent
6'
Descent
6'
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Features

Vista / Lookout Point
Dogs

Points of interest

  1. Parking

    38.298524, -111.272471
  2. Main Trailhead

    38.298415, -111.272432

Safety information

For your own safety: plan ahead, let someone know where you'll be, and hike at your own risk.

Hazards

Snakes (Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, others)

Availability

All seasons

Surface type

Dirt

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0.1 miles / 0.2 km
September 26, 2023
Hiking
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