If you’ve ever considered a summer trip to southern Utah, you might think the heat makes it unbearable—but that’s not the case in Capitol Reef National Park. July and August are actually ideal months to explore this stunning region, offering cooler temperatures than you might expect, fewer crowds, and peak conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and stargazing.
Many travelers find themselves asking “How hot is Zion/Arches/Capitol Reef?”. While it is always good to plan ahead and properly research these locations, many national park enthusiasts assume that all Utah national parks are scorching in the summer. While the temperature at parks like Zion and Arches often top 100°F, Capitol Reef enjoys a higher elevation—around 6,800 feet in the town of Torrey—which helps keep things significantly cooler.
With the right planning—early hikes, shaded trails, and lots of hydration—you’ll find that the best time to visit Capitol Reef is in the summer! Capitol Reef’s summer climate is surprisingly pleasant, especially compared to other parks in the area.
Even with Capitol Reef’s milder summer temperatures, a midday break can still be a welcome part of the rhythm. After a cool morning hike, some travelers like to spend the early afternoon unwinding with a swim or relaxing indoors—especially if they’re staying somewhere like the Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse, where an indoor pool makes it easy to recharge before heading back out for sunset views and evening exploration. It’s a balanced way to enjoy everything the park has to offer without rushing through it.
July and August tend to be quieter months, making them some of the best times to visit Capitol Reef National Park, as many travelers head to the more well-known (and hotter) parks. That means:
Capitol Reef in the summer offers the best of both worlds: sunny days for exploration and cool nights for rest. Popular activities include:
Evenings in Capitol Reef are especially enjoyable, with cool breezes and famously clear skies that invite you to slow down and savor the moment. After a full day of exploring, many visitors spend the evening around a firepit, playing yard games like corn hole, or simply relaxing under the stars. At places like the Broken Spur, where these kinds of outdoor spaces are part of the experience, it’s easy to make the most of the night—whether you’re swapping stories by the fire or taking in the incredible dark skies that make this area one of the best stargazing spots in the country.
Located just minutes from Capitol Reef, Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse is the ideal Capitol Reef lodging option for your summer adventure. Our elevated location in Torrey means cooler breezes, panoramic views, and easy access to the park. Plus, our onsite steakhouse is open seven nights a week, serving hearty meals after a day of discovery.
Don’t let the summer sun scare you away. The best time to visit Capitol Reef is during July and August—cooler, quieter, and filled with adventure. Book your Capitol Reef summer experience at Broken Spur Inn today and experience summer in Utah the way it was meant to be.
Enjoy 10% off nights booked in July or August with code SUMMER10
May 31, 2025
