Torrey, Utah is an often-overlooked gem located near the center of the state.
The city has a population of fewer than 300 residents. But every year, more than 900,000 people make their way through the city on their way to Capitol Reef National Park. This means that while the city offers plenty of amenities for guests to enjoy, it has also retained its natural beauty and small-town charm.
Whether you’re passionate about the outdoors and eager to explore Capitol Reef, are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway, or planning to bring the whole family along, there is no shortage of ways to spend a day in Torrey, Utah. Keep reading to learn a few ideas.
1. Spend the Day at Cougar Ridge
If you’re lucky enough to be staying at Cougar Ridge during your visit to Torrey, you’re in luck; there are an endless number of ways to spend each and every day of your trip without ever leaving the property.
Start your day with a relaxing walk and a visit to our resident animals. Schedule a class ahead of time, and learn to paint, how to make beer and wine, and more. Get your whole group involved in a game of sand volleyball. And end your day relaxing beside a fire and roasting some marshmallows.
Looking for something even more indulgent? Schedule a private rodeo experience or host a backyard BBQ.
For guests renting out The Grand Lodge for their group, there are even more on-site amenities and activities to choose from. Get your workout in at our full-service Fitness Facility, and sweat it out in the sauna or steam room afterward. Challenge your family or friends to a round of bowling in your own private alley. Or, keep it classic with a round of horseshoes.
2. Explore Capitol Reef National Park
Located just a short drive from Cougar Ridge is the entrance gate to Capitol Reef National Park. This unique and beautiful natural destination is one of 5 national parks in the state of Utah. While not as well-known as Zion or Arches, Capitol Reef is no less stunning.
The park is situated on the Waterpocket Fold, a wrinkle in the earth’s surface that makes for some incredible rock formations and exposed layers. Take on one of the park’s hiking trails, and don’t forget to bring your camera along for the journey.
Even if you don’t want to hit the trails, taking a drive through the park or perhaps packing a picnic to enjoy is always a great way to spend a day.
Another interesting activity you can enjoy in Capitol Reef that’s not available in perhaps any other national park in the country is fruit picking. Orchards that were planted by settlers who once lived within the park, today the orchards are maintained and managed by the Park Service. They are open to visitors year-round, though you’ll need to check harvest times to see if you can pick fruit during your visit.
3. Cruise the Highway 12 Scenic Byway
Whether you need a break from hiking or just want to do some sightseeing, plan to take a cruise on Highway 12 Scenic Byway during your visit.
Touted as one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S., this unique one-lane highway starts in Torrey, Utah, near the entrance to Capitol Reef National Park. It winds and twists over more than 120 miles of Utah’s rocky and rugged landscape. You’ll pass through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, see slickrock canyons and red rock cliffs, as well as snow-capped alpine mountains and small, quaint towns.
Bonus: Finish the Day with Some Stargazing
No matter how you choose to spend your day in Torrey, Utah, there’s only one way to end it; with some stargazing.
Capitol Reef National Park is a designated International Dark-Sky Park. In addition to being far from any major cities and sources of light pollution, this also means that the park and its facilities take measures to further reduce any potential light pollution.
You don’t have to be in the park to enjoy some incredible stargazing. Simply step outside of The Grand Lodge or Casita, and you’ll be treated to awesome views on a clear night.
Planning Your Next Visit to Torrey, Utah
Now that you know a few ways to spend a day in Torrey, Utah, it’s time to start planning your own trip. Whether you’re looking forwards to hitting the trails or relaxing in your own beautiful private Casita, there’s no shortage of options to choose from when building your very own custom itinerary.
Looking for another reason to book your next trip to Torrey? Book your stay at Cougar Ridge today and enjoy a 50% discount on your room. Don’t wait — take advantage of our biggest discount of the year and getaway this winter!