Special Event

Event

Reef Ride Bike Days 2026

Capitol Reef National Park

Fee:

Free.

Location: LAT/LONG: 38.277860, -111.249673


Bike ride is along the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, starting just past the Fruita Campground.

Dates & Times

Date:

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Time:

Sunrise

Type of Event

Ride

The road will be closed to motor vehicles starting at sunrise, re-opening mid-afternoon


Description

Reef Ride Bike Days 2026:

Save the Dates and celebrate National Public Lands Day on two Saturdays in September 2026. Come enjoy the recently repaved Scenic Drive on a bicycle or on foot. From sunrise to 2:00 pm the Scenic Drive will be closed to vehicles for this special event, allowing folks a chance to explore at a slower pace. 

The Scenic Drive is a 7.9-mile (12.7 km) paved road that offers breathtaking views of the park's unique geological formations. The bikes-only portion will begin after the campground and provide access to Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge, and Pleasant Creek. Some bicyclists may also choose to ride the dirt roads into Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge, although these may not be suitable for road bikes.

**Be sure to read the Safety Tips on the event website (below). Elevation ranges from approximately 5,400 feet (1,646 m) to 5,977 feet (1,822 m) above sea level.

Parking for vehicles is available throughout Fruita. The Picnic Area and Jorgenson pasture parking areas are south of the visitor center and are great places to unload bikes and start your ride.


More information

Reservation or Registration: No