Sunset Point and Goosenecks Point
Capitol Reef
Overview
|
Tue 44 | 28 |
Wed 42 | 26 |
Thu 40 | 23 |
Fri 43 | 24 |
Sat 47 | 26 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
|
Tue 44 | 28 |
Wed 42 | 26 |
Thu 40 | 23 |
Fri 43 | 24 |
Sat 47 | 26 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
Sunset Point, the Henries Shrowded in clouds.
As the name would imply, Sunset Point is one of THE PLACES TO BE in Capitol Reef at sunset. The short hike to the viewpoint offs excellent views and colors as the sun slowly descends every evening. Even on the cold and windy evening I visited, there were 15 or 20 people out watching the spectacle. This is a photographers dream, bring a camera!
The super short Goosenecks starts from the same trailhead and offers good views into the Goosenecks that Sulphur Creek cuts on its way to the Fremont River. Both hikes should be accessible to most, and make a great short side diversion while in the area.
Panorama Point offers big views from just off the highway, but for my money, Sunset Point is the one to visit.
The final light of the day
Getting There
From the Visitor Center, head WEST on highway 24 for 2.3 miles to the signed Goosenecks Point road on the left.
Panorama Point is the paved road on the right once leaving the highway.
Turn left onto the dirt road after leaving the highway and follow the well graded road to its end in about a mile at the trailhead.
Sunset beginning at Sunset Point
Route
Goosenecks Point
The short trail goes 0.1 miles to a fenced overlook of Sulphur Creek .
Sunset Point
The short 0.3 miles ones way trail starts on the east side of the parking lot and meanders out to a bench mid-way, then continues to an excellent overlook at the end of the trail. Chimney Rock , Ferns Nipple , the Water Pocket Fold, Boulder Mountain, and even Mount Ellen the highest point in the Henry Mountains far of in the distance to the east are visible. Not surprisingly, best lighting is generally around sunset. Bring warm clothes and a flashlight!
Photos
Maps
| Panorama Point |
12S 474131mE 4239874mN N38° 18' 24" W111° 17' 45" |
| Goosenecks |
12S 473860mE 4238995mN N38° 17' 55" W111° 17' 56" |
| Trailhead |
12S 473935mE 4239032mN N38° 17' 56" W111° 17' 53" |
| Sunset Point |
12S 474279mE 4238808mN N38° 17' 49" W111° 17' 39" |