Things To Do In Torrey – An Outdoor Enthusiast’S Guide To Utah’S

ByEric James Updated on

Planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park? You’ve probably noticed the tiny town of Torrey, Utah, on the map, maybe thinking of it as just a place to grab gas or a quick bite before heading into the park.

But what if I told you this small desert town is a destination in its own right? It’s a perfect basecamp for incredible adventures, dark sky wonders, and a taste of true Utah wilderness that goes far beyond the park entrance sign.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential things to do in torrey, from exploring the orchards of Capitol Reef to finding the best backcountry drives and practicing sustainable travel. This is your complete things to do in torrey guide to help you explore safely, smartly, and confidently.

Explore Capitol Reef National Park: The Crown Jewel Next Door

Let’s start with the main event. Torrey is the western gateway to Capitol Reef, one of Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks. It’s less crowded than Zion or Arches but every bit as stunning, defined by the immense Waterpocket Fold—a 100-mile wrinkle in the earth’s crust.

Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail

If you only have time for one short hike, make it this one. The Hickman Bridge Trail is a moderately easy 1.8-mile round-trip hike that leads you to a spectacular 133-foot natural bridge. It’s a perfect introduction to the park’s geology.

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday sun. The trailhead parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Carry at least one liter of water per person, even for this short hike.

Drive the Scenic Drive

The 8-mile paved Scenic Drive is the best way to see the heart of the park from your vehicle. It offers breathtaking views of massive sandstone cliffs, domes, and canyons. A small entrance fee is required past the Fruita Campground.

Don’t just drive it—stop at the pullouts. Key spots like Panorama Point and the Goosenecks Overlook (just before the main Scenic Drive entrance) offer incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Pick Fruit in the Historic Fruita Orchards

One of the most unique national park experiences is harvesting fruit in the historic orchards of the Fruita Rural Historic District. Depending on the season (typically late June through October), you can pick cherries, apricots, peaches, pears, or apples.

There’s no charge for fruit consumed in the orchard, but you’ll pay a small fee for anything you take with you. Check the park’s website for a harvest schedule before you go. It’s one of the most memorable and eco-friendly things to do in torrey.

Discover Petroglyphs and Pioneer History

Along Highway 24, easy-to-access boardwalks lead to panels of Fremont Culture petroglyphs, etched into the rock walls centuries ago. You can also visit the Gifford Homestead, a preserved early 20th-century farmhouse that now sells incredible homemade pies and ice cream.

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Beyond the Park Boundaries: Adventures on Highway 12

Torrey sits at the junction of Highway 24 and the famous Scenic Byway 12. This road is an adventure in itself, offering access to a completely different landscape and some of the best views in the state.

Drive the “All-American Road”

Scenic Byway 12 is consistently ranked among the most beautiful drives in the world. From Torrey, head south toward Boulder. The road climbs Boulder Mountain, offering sweeping vistas of Capitol Reef and the Henry Mountains.

The most famous section is “The Hogsback,” a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides. Drive carefully, use the pullouts, and savor the heart-pounding, unforgettable views. This is one of the key benefits of things to do in torrey—access to world-class scenery.

Explore Boulder Mountain

Part of the Dixie National Forest, the high plateau of Boulder Mountain offers a cool, green escape from the desert heat. In summer, it’s a paradise for fishing in its numerous lakes. In the fall, the aspen groves explode into a sea of gold, making it a photographer’s dream.

Dispersed camping is widely available here, but be sure to follow all fire restrictions and things to do in torrey best practices for camping in bear country.

Stargazing in a Certified Dark Sky Park

When the sun goes down, a whole new world opens up. Capitol Reef is a certified International Dark Sky Park, meaning it has some of the darkest, clearest night skies in the country. The lack of light pollution is astounding.

Why Capitol Reef’s Skies are So Dark

The park’s remote location, clean air, and high elevation combine to create a perfect window to the cosmos. On a clear, moonless night, the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a brilliant cloud, and you can see thousands of stars with the naked eye.

Best Spots for Stargazing

You don’t need to go far. The parking lots at Panorama Point and the Goosenecks Overlook are fantastic spots. Even your campsite at the Fruita Campground will offer incredible views. The key is to get away from any vehicle headlights and let your eyes adjust for at least 20 minutes.

Stargazing Gear and Tips

You don’t need much to enjoy the show. A simple pair of binoculars, like the Celestron Nature DX 8×42, can reveal star clusters and nebulae. A red-light headlamp (like the Black Diamond Spot) is essential for preserving your night vision. Apps like SkyView or Star Walk can help you identify constellations.

Essential Things to Do in Torrey Town Itself

The town of Torrey, while small, provides the essential services and local charm that make it a perfect adventure hub. Knowing how to things to do in torrey includes knowing the town itself.

Fuel Up: Where to Eat and Resupply

After a long day of hiking, you’ll find a handful of excellent local restaurants. You can also grab groceries, firewood, and basic camping supplies at the general store. Remember to stock up here, as services become scarce once you head into the park or south on Highway 12.

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Discover Local Art and Culture

Torrey has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. Several galleries showcase the work of local artists inspired by the surrounding landscape. It’s a great way to connect with the community and find a unique souvenir.

Find Your Perfect Basecamp: Camping and Lodging

Torrey offers a range of options. For campers, Sunglow Campground just outside of town is a great choice, nestled in a small canyon. There are also private RV parks and extensive opportunities for free dispersed camping on nearby BLM and Forest Service land. Just be sure you know the regulations.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel in Torrey

The desert is a fragile environment. As visitors, it’s our responsibility to protect it. Practicing sustainable things to do in torrey ensures this landscape remains pristine for generations to come.

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

This is non-negotiable. Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps. Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect delicate cryptobiotic soil. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance.

Conserve Water in the Desert

Water is the most precious resource here. Keep showers short, don’t leave taps running, and carry more water than you think you’ll need on hikes. A good hydration reservoir like a CamelBak Crux or a sturdy Nalgene bottle is a must-have piece of gear.

Support Local Businesses

One of the best ways to travel sustainably is to support the local economy. Eat at local restaurants, shop at the general store, and buy art from local galleries. Your dollars make a big difference in a small community like Torrey.

Common Problems and Pro Tips for Visiting Torrey

A trip to Torrey is incredible, but the remote desert environment presents unique challenges. Addressing these common problems with things to do in torrey ahead of time will make your trip safer and more enjoyable.

Dealing with Extreme Weather

Summer temperatures can soar above 100°F, while winter nights can drop well below freezing. Always check the forecast. More importantly, be aware of flash flood potential. Never camp in a dry wash, and if rain is forecast, avoid hiking in narrow canyons.

Navigating Limited Cell Service

Don’t expect reliable cell service outside of Torrey. Download offline maps of the area on an app like Gaia GPS or Google Maps before you leave town. A personal locator beacon, like a Garmin inReach Mini, is a wise investment for anyone planning to explore the backcountry.

Preparing for High Elevation

Torrey sits at about 6,800 feet, and the surrounding areas are even higher. Take it easy the first day to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache and nausea. This is a key part of your personal things to do in torrey care guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Torrey

What is the best time of year to visit Torrey, Utah?

The best times are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when daytime temperatures are pleasant for hiking. Summer is hot but is the prime season for picking fruit in the Fruita orchards. Winter is cold and quiet, offering solitude but potential for snow.

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How many days do I need in Torrey?

Plan for at least 2-3 full days. This gives you enough time to drive the Scenic Drive, do a couple of key hikes in Capitol Reef, explore a section of Highway 12, and enjoy a night of stargazing without feeling rushed.

Is Torrey a good base for other national parks?

While it’s the perfect base for Capitol Reef, it’s a bit remote for day-tripping to other parks. Bryce Canyon is about 2.5 hours away, and Arches is about 3 hours away. It’s best to focus your time on Capitol Reef and the incredible surrounding region like Grand Staircase-Escalante and Boulder Mountain.

Are there any eco-friendly things to do in Torrey?

Absolutely. Stargazing, hiking on established trails, supporting local businesses, and participating in the U-Pick fruit harvest are all wonderfully eco-friendly activities. The most important thing is to rigorously follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact.

Torrey, Utah, is so much more than a pit stop. It’s a gateway to a world of towering cliffs, brilliant stars, scenic drives, and quiet contemplation. It’s a place that rewards the prepared and curious adventurer.

By exploring thoughtfully and respecting the fragile desert, you can unlock the true magic of this corner of Utah. Now you have the knowledge to explore confidently.

Get out there, respect the land, and discover the wild heart of Capitol Reef country. Stay safe and adventure on!

Eric James
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