Sunrise/Sunset Point Trail

This quick out-and-back punches well above its weight. From the trailhead along the Scenic Drive, you'll climb a gentle slickrock slope — think natural sandstone staircase — with the red and white layers of the Waterpocket Fold unfurling around you like a geology textbook come to life. The elevation gain is barely noticeable, just enough to get your heart rate up before the trail delivers you to a viewpoint where Capitol Dome rises in golden Navajo Sandstone against an absurdly blue sky. The trail is mostly exposed, crossing open desert terrain with scattered juniper and pinyon pine offering occasional patches of shade. At the overlook, the 360-degree panorama takes in the dome, the cliffs of the Capitol Reef escarpment, and the vast emptiness of south-central Utah. This is the perfect trail for families, photographers, or anyone short on time who wants Capitol Reef's signature view without committing to a longer haul.