Safety

There are a number of factors to take into consideration when managing your safety in Capitol Reef National Park.

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Safety Details

There are a number of factors to take into consideration when managing your safety in Capitol Reef National Park, including the sometimes extreme environment and the isolation of certain portions of the park. Take care when hiking or climbing near cliffs to watch for loose sand and pebbles, which can be very slippery. Mind the cliff edges when using cameras and binoculars, and never throw or roll rocks as there may be hikers below you. Stay on the trail; stay back from cliff edges and observe posted warnings. If storms are threatening avoid narrow canyons, as intense, local thunderstorms can cause flash floods that drop a lot of rain over a short period of time. These are most common in July, August and September, but can occur at any time. Hikers and bikers should carry adequate water, at least one gallon per day. Drinking water is available at the visitor center, picnic area, and campground. Do not drink untreated water. When driving, watch for bicycles, pedestrians and wildlife. Obey posted speed limits, which, unless otherwise noted, are 25 miles per hour. Seat belts are required for all occupants of your car. Park only in designated areas to protect the park's vegetation. Even if you're not engaged in strenuous activity, heat exhaustion can occur in hot environments like Capitol Reef. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headaches, pale appearance, stomach cramps and cool, clammy skin. If you or someone you're with begins to feel ill, stop your hike immediately and rest in a shady area. Heat stroke is advanced heat exhaustion, with symptoms including confusion, disorientation, behavioral changes and seizures. If someone in your party is suffering from heat stroke, you must keep them cool using any means available and seek immediate medical assistance. On the other end of the spectrum is hypothermia, which occurs when the body cools down to dangerous levels. To prevent hypothermia, dress appropriately for the weather, avoid cotton clothing, which provides no insulation when wet, and eat high-energy foods before you get chilled. Firearms are permitted in Capitol Reef National Park, and it is the visitor's responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable Utah local and federal firearm laws. The discharge, display, or brandishing of firearms (including hunting) within the park is strictly prohibited.

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