Image credit: ParkwolfClosure
Scenic Drive vehicle closure on September 19 and 26
The Scenic Drive will be closed to motor vehicles from sunrise to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, for a National Public Lands Day event allowing bicycles and pedestrians to use the road. - The bikes-only portion begins after the campground on the 7.9-mile (12.7 km) paved road and provides access to Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge, and Pleasant Creek. - State Route 24 and the Fruita area, including the campground and Gifford House, remain accessible to vehicles. - Vehicle parking is available throughout Fruita; the Picnic Area and Jorgenson pasture parking areas are places to unload bikes and start riding. - Do not line up at the gate waiting for reopening. Bicyclists should expect vehicle traffic after 2 p.m., and a few NPS vehicles may be on the road for safety and maintenance work. Check current Scenic Drive event access details before traveling.Official detailsCaution
Flash-flood hazard in canyons and washes
Heavy rains can cause sudden flooding, especially in Capitol Reef’s canyons and washes; do not drive or hike through floodwaters. - Get to high ground and wait for floods to subside; some roads may close temporarily, with closures posted at the visitor center. - If hiking in canyons or near streams or rivers, leave immediately if water becomes muddy or begins rising. - Never drive into a flooded roadway; find an alternate route or wait for flooding to stop. Check current park conditions before entering canyons or washes.Official detailsCaution
E. coli advisory for Fremont River and Sulphur Creek
Do not swim in the Fremont River or Sulphur Creek or get their water in your mouth: recent water-quality testing found elevated E. coli levels, and the Utah DEQ has issued a warning advisory. - Use caution if entering either waterway. - Wash your hands with soap and water after contact. Check current park conditions before entering either waterway.Official details
