Burr Trail Switchbacks
Burr Trail cuts through the Waterpocket Fold in the park's south and drops to Strike Valley by a steep string of dirt switchbacks, a spectacular drive.
Burr Trail was originally a route used by 19th-century herders to drive cattle across the folds. Today it is a scenic road running from Boulder to Bullfrog. Inside the park, it descends about 240 meters in a continuous series of switchbacks carved into the fold's cliffs, with dramatic views all the way down. The switchbacks are gravel; on sunny days ordinary cars can pass with care. From Torrey, the dirt route via Notom-Bullfrog takes about 1.5 hours, or you can take the paved road via Boulder. Along the way, you can stop at the Strike Valley overlook. There are no services, so check road conditions before setting out.
Opening hours
Open all day (subject to road conditions)
Nearby sights
- Capitol Gorge & Pioneer Register
- Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
- Behunin Cabin
- Cassidy Arch
- Grand Wash
- Gifford Homestead
- Cohab Canyon
- Petroglyph Panel