Technical Canyoneering, Climbing, and BoulderingCapitol Reef National Park offers world-class technical canyoneering, rock climbing, and bouldering across a dramatic landscape of sandstone canyons, slot canyons, and towering walls. Free day-use permits are required for all of these activities. There is no fee and no reservation system. Canyoneering at Capitol Reef often involves scrambling through tight slot canyons, rappelling, swimming, and technical rope work. Rock climbing is predominantly on Wingate sandstone, a formation known for its crack systems but also for unpredictable flaking. In all cases, these activities bring you into remote, sensitive terrain where conditions can change quickly and self-rescue may be necessary. Small group sizes are encouraged for the safety of participants and the protection of park resources. Come prepared, know your limits, and review the regulations below before submitting your permit request. Rules and Regulations
Free Day-Use Permits are required for technical canyoneering, rock climbing, and bouldering routes.
If climbing or canyoneering includes an overnight stay, a backcountry use permit is also required. Canyoneers and climbers must use minimum impact camping and climbing practices which are listed on the permit.
A separate permit is required for each canyon or climbing zone, even on the same day.
Wife 1 and Wife 2, for example, are two separate routes and each requires its own permit. If you are canyoneering on more than one day, submit a separate permit email for each day.
Capitol Reef's canyons and climbing areas are remote and unpatrolled. Rescue response times can be significant.
The regulations listed on this page represent the most common rules that apply to technical canyoneering, climbing, and bouldering at Capitol Reef National Park. They are not a complete list. For the full list of rules and regulations governing backcountry and recreational activities in the park, refer to the Superintendent's Compendium. When you arrive at the Compendium, navigate to the Use Limits, Conditions, and Restrictions section. This is where you will find the complete regulations relevant to your activity. Note that the Permits section of the Compendium lists only which activities require permits and is not where the full regulations are found. 
Get Your PermitPermits are required for canyoneering. Free day-use permits can be obtained in person at the visitor center or via email. Please review all rules and regulations prior to filling out or requesting a permit. A separate permit is required for each route. Email: e-mail us Subject line: Route or zone name and the date of your activity Your email body must include:
Your sent email is your permit. You must carry a digital or printed copy during your activity and present it to park staff when requested. No cell service? Connect to the NPS Visitor Center Wi-Fi, sign in through your browser, then send your permit email before you head out. Camping overnight? If your backcountry activity includes overnight camping, you also need a free backcountry permit. Pick one up at the visitor center desk before you go. Overnight permits are not available by email. 
Learn More
CanyoneeringThe multiple rock layers found at Capitol Reef offer a diverse canyon environment. Permits are now required. 
Rock Climbing & BoulderingCapitol Reef has experienced minimal use by technical rock climbers, but there's a growing interest in Utah. Permits are now required. 
Backpacking in Capitol ReefA free backpacking permit is required before starting your overnight adventure. |
Last updated: August 18, 2026