Burr Trail Switchbacks Utah
A legendary scenic byway in Utah, featuring dramatic switchbacks and vast desert landscapes connecting Capitol Reef and Grand Staircase-Escalante.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild temps, fewer crowds
Burr Trail Switchbacks Utah
Best Time
Mild temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary scenic byway in Utah, featuring dramatic switchbacks and vast desert landscapes connecting Capitol Reef and Grand Staircase-Escalante.
"Absolute beautiful scenery and lots of space to yourself, you are unlikely to see many other people."
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While 2WD SUVs can manage in dry conditions, a high-clearance vehicle ensures a smoother, safer journey on the gravel road.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no services. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Switchbacks
Capitol Reef National Park
A thrilling, winding gravel road offering dramatic elevation changes and panoramic desert vistas.
Waterpocket Fold Views
Capitol Reef National Park
Marvel at the immense geological folds and unique sandstone formations that define this ancient landscape.
Remote Desert Solitude
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Experience unparalleled peace and quiet amidst vast, untouched desert scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Scenic Adventure
Embrace the Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While 2WD SUVs can manage in dry conditions, a high-clearance vehicle ensures a smoother, safer journey on the gravel road.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no services. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Check Road Conditions
The gravel road can become slippery when wet. Always check with the visitor center for current conditions.
📸 Drive Slowly for Views
The 12% grade offers incredible scenery. Take your time to enjoy the views and the ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
While 2WD SUVs can manage in dry conditions, a high-clearance vehicle ensures a smoother, safer journey on the gravel road.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no services. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Check Road Conditions
The gravel road can become slippery when wet. Always check with the visitor center for current conditions.
📸 Drive Slowly for Views
The 12% grade offers incredible scenery. Take your time to enjoy the views and the ride.
🥾 Hike to Overlooks
Numerous hiking opportunities exist, including trails to stunning overlooks like Strike Overlook.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Burr Trail Switchbacks for their breathtaking scenery and sense of solitude. The rugged gravel road and dramatic switchbacks offer a thrilling driving experience, though some find it nerve-wracking. It's a highly recommended scenic drive for those seeking an escape into Utah's wild beauty.
"Heck Yeah! This is the Southern Entrance into Capital Reef National Park (the best). This can be a little nerve wracking for those that are afraid of heights, but man what a fun road to traverse.
Absolute beautiful scenery and lots of space to yourself, you are unlikely to see many other people."
Jesse Chappell
"Fun, gravel switchback road with amazing views at the top! This can be driven in a 2WD if the weather is good. It's a free scenic drive through the southernmost point of Capitol Reef NP. Though this is a scenic drive, there are numerous hikes in the region.
We drove through from Boulder on a Monday 4/22/24. We didn't pass any cars once we passed Singing Canyon, for many, many miles.
This is the area to come if you want to get away from it all. The Switchbacks were a huge bonus! We felt as though we were the only people on earth. It was a wonderful experience that I hope to return to!"
Diva in the Woods
"3-17-23: Easily passed thru this remote sector of Capitol Reef National Park in a 2WD SUV. Dirt road in excellent condition. Amazing scenery all along Burr Trail both inside and outside the national park."
Lucas Wall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Burr Trail Road is accessible from both Capitol Reef National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It's a scenic drive connecting Boulder, Utah, to the southern end of Capitol Reef. 
Many travelers drive it from Boulder towards Capitol Reef, enjoying the switchbacks as they ascend. Others drive it in reverse. The direction often depends on your overall itinerary.
No, the Burr Trail Road is primarily a gravel road, especially the switchback section. It's known for its rugged beauty.
While some sedans have managed in excellent dry conditions, it's not recommended. A high-clearance vehicle or 4WD is ideal for comfort and safety.
The drive can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace, stops for photos, and any hiking you do along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No permit is required to drive the Burr Trail Road, as it is a public road. Entry into Capitol Reef National Park may require a fee if you access it from the main park entrance.
The Burr Trail Road itself is free to drive. However, if you plan to explore other areas of Capitol Reef National Park, standard park entrance fees will apply.
The Burr Trail Road is open year-round, weather permitting. There are no set operating hours, but daylight hours are best for visibility and enjoying the scenery.
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for driving and hiking. Summer can be very hot, and winter can bring snow and ice, making the road impassable.
Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument along the Burr Trail, following BLM regulations. There are also campgrounds within Capitol Reef National Park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The switchbacks themselves offer incredible viewpoints. Other notable spots include overlooks of the Waterpocket Fold and various pull-offs with expansive desert panoramas.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. Strike Overlook is a popular hike accessible from the Burr Trail, offering stunning views of the Waterpocket Fold.
You might spot desert bighorn sheep, deer, various birds of prey, and other desert wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent along most of the Burr Trail. It's crucial to download offline maps and inform someone of your travel plans.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Layers are recommended as temperatures can fluctuate. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services directly along the Burr Trail. You'll need to pack all your own food and drinks. The nearest services are in towns like Boulder or Torrey.
Pack non-perishable snacks, sandwiches, and plenty of water. Consider items that are easy to eat on the go or during a scenic stop.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
The switchbacks themselves are a prime photo opportunity. Also, look for unique rock formations, canyons, and expansive desert vistas.
Drone usage is restricted within Capitol Reef National Park. Check the specific regulations for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument if flying outside the park boundaries.
Dust can be a significant issue, so protect your camera gear. The remote nature means you'll need to be self-sufficient with power and storage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no services along the route. Short, easy hikes like the trail to Strike Overlook can be manageable for older children, offering a chance to stretch their legs and explore the unique geology. Emphasize the importance of staying close to adults and respecting the desert environment.
🚗 Road Trippers & Vanlifers
+1Vehicle suitability is paramount. While many vans can handle the gravel, ensure yours has adequate ground clearance. Dispersed camping is available in parts of Grand Staircase-Escalante, offering incredible stargazing opportunities. Be prepared for dust and remote travel, and always practice Leave No Trace principles.
+1📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Plan to visit during the golden hours for the best light. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the Waterpocket Fold and the switchbacks. Be prepared for dust and bring protective gear for your camera. The solitude allows for unhurried exploration and capturing the essence of the Utah desert.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Burr Trail Road
+1Vehicle Choice is Key: The most crucial aspect of planning for the Burr Trail is your vehicle. While the road is generally well-maintained gravel, the switchback section can be steep and challenging. A high-clearance vehicle, such as an SUV or truck, is highly recommended to navigate the terrain comfortably and safely. While some visitors have reported success in 2WD vehicles during dry conditions, it's a riskier proposition, especially if you encounter unexpected weather.
Road Conditions and Safety: Always check the latest road conditions before embarking on the Burr Trail. The BLM and National Park Service websites are good resources. Rain can quickly turn the gravel into a slick, muddy mess, making it impassable for many vehicles. Be prepared for remote travel: carry ample water, food, a first-aid kit, and ensure your vehicle is in good working order. Cell service is virtually nonexistent, so inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.
Exploring the Geological Wonders
Beyond the Waterpocket Fold, the Burr Trail passes through diverse desert landscapes, including colorful sandstone canyons, slickrock formations, and high desert plateaus. The Burr Trail Switchbacks themselves are a testament to the engineering required to traverse this rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views as you ascend or descend. These formations are a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
For those interested in a deeper geological exploration, several hiking trails branch off the Burr Trail. The hike to Strike Overlook provides an exceptional vantage point to appreciate the scale and complexity of the Waterpocket Fold. These trails allow you to immerse yourself in the ancient landscapes and understand the forces that shaped this unique region.
A Journey Through History
The trail passes through areas that were once home to indigenous peoples, and later, to Mormon settlers and prospectors. The stark beauty of the landscape has remained largely unchanged, preserving the spirit of the frontier. As you drive, you're following in the footsteps of those who sought opportunity and survival in this remote and unforgiving environment.
Today, the Burr Trail is a popular route for adventurers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Utah's backcountry while appreciating the historical significance of this enduring pathway.
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