Capitol Reef National Park is currently operating under several active alerts and restrictions. Recent water quality testing has revealed elevated E. coli levels in the Fremont River, prompting officials to advise visitors to use caution when entering the water and to avoid swimming or getting water in their mouths.
Stage II fire restrictions remain in effect until further notice. Under these restrictions, campfires and charcoal are not permitted even in established fire rings, though gas or liquid fueled portable camp stoves may still be used. Smoking is restricted to use only within enclosed vehicles.
Travelers using Utah Highway 24 through the park should prepare for potential delays. UDOT is repairing sections of the highway during July 2026, which may result in one-lane closures and delays of up to 15 minutes.
Seasonal canyoneering closures are also in effect through August 31, 2026, to protect sensitive resources. Closed areas include the heads of Fivemile Wash and Burro Wash descending east 2 miles, Shinob Canyon along with all routes descending into it, and Arch Nemesis Canyon including its route exiting at Capitol Gorge and direct tributary canyons.
The park's orchards are seeing active seasonal updates. As of July 16, 2026, the Krueger orchard is temporarily closed while Rosa peaches ripen, though it is expected to reopen soon. In the Jackson orchard, Ginger Gold apples are available for harvest at $2.00 per pound or $30 per 50-pound bushel, with the harvest expected to continue for approximately two weeks.
Looking ahead to September, the Scenic Drive will be closed to motor vehicles from sunrise until 3 pm on Saturday, September 19, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, for the Reef Ride Bike Days event. This closure is intended to allow pedestrians and cyclists to use the road, though UT highway 24 will remain open.
Capitol Reef National Park remains fully open 24 hours a day. The Visitor Center operates from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm daily during the spring and fall seasons. Backcountry camping permits can be obtained at the visitor center during operating hours.
