Pros & cons
PROS
- Shares a parking area with Sunset Point, so you get two standout overlooks in one stop.
- Huge scenic payoff for a tiny time investment—great when you’re tight on time.
CONS
- Fully exposed with no shade; midday can be harsh and hot.
- Short and popular, so the overlook can feel crowded around sunset.
Signed shared lot for Goosenecks Overlook and Sunset Point at the end of a short gravel spur off UT-24 near Fruita; typically accessible to all vehicles.
No shade; bring water and sun protection. Uneven slickrock and steps require careful footing. In winter, snow or ice can make the path slippery. Expect sunset crowds.
Overview
This is the easiest “wow” view in Capitol Reef. A super-short stroll leads to a rim overlook where Sulphur Creek has carved tight meanders (the namesake goosenecks) into the red rock. It’s a quick stop with an outsized payoff, and it pairs perfectly with nearby Sunset Point from the same parking area.
Trail Snapshot
- Distance: about 0.4 miles total, out-and-back
- Effort: easy (a few rock steps and a brief, slightly steep push near the end)
- Elevation: roughly 50–70 feet of gain
- Surface: packed dirt and slickrock; fully exposed with little to no shade
What You’ll See
From the overlook, scan a classic canyon panorama: tight stream-cut bends below, stacked sedimentary layers, and the broader red-rock country shaped by the Waterpocket Fold. The scene pops at golden hour, when cliffs glow and shadows sculpt the goosenecks. It’s the kind of view that makes you wonder how something this grand is only minutes from your car.
Best Time to Hike
Sunrise or sunset is prime—softer light, cooler temps, and better photos. Spring and fall usually deliver the most comfortable weather and clearest air. Summer heat is manageable because the walk is short, but it’s fully exposed, so bring water and sun protection. Winter is possible; just know snow or ice can make the slickrock slick.
Tips and Pairings
- Do Sunset Point right after (or before) from the same lot—two top views, one stop.
- The spur road is gravel but typically fine for all vehicles in normal conditions.
- If you’re short on time, this is a high‑reward stop you can slot in anytime you’re driving UT‑24 near Fruita.
Know Before You Go
No permits required. Pets aren’t allowed on trails here. The path has uneven rock and steps, so it’s not wheelchair or stroller friendly. Expect some company at sunset—plan a little extra time if you want elbow room for photos.
Elevation
0.4 mi · 30 minWhere it starts
38.2989, -111.2980Near Goosenecks Overlook Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayGoosenecks OverlookQuick walk to a canyon of tight Sulphur Creek goosenecksTrailhead · Parking
0.2 mi awaySunset Point OverlookEasy walk to glowing red cliffs lit up by sunsetTrailhead · Parking
0.2 mi awaySunset Point TrailEasy stroll to glowing Waterpocket Fold vistas at day’s endEasy · 0.8 mi · 30 min
0.6 mi awaySulphur CreekShaded water hike with three waterfalls and big red-rock walls
0.6 mi awayPanorama Point TrailZero-effort overlook with big Waterpocket Fold views near SR‑24Easy · 0.1 mi · 10 min
0.6 mi awayPanorama PointEasy roadside overlook with wide desert vistas and sunset glowPullout · Parking
1.2 mi awaySulphur Creek RoutePlayful creek walk with waterfalls, narrows, and easy shuttle logisticsModerate · 5.8 mi · 4 hr
1.2 mi awayUpper Spring Canyon TrailRemote Wingate canyon epic with solitude, slots, and route findingChallenging · 18.7 mi · 10 hr
