Capitol Reef National Park is gearing up to reopen portions of Scenic Drive and the Chimney Rock Trail this week. The Chimney Rock parking lot has been upgraded with a new accessible restroom, better parking, and improved drainage. Starting Monday, November 25, visitors will be able to access the Chimney Rock Trail and Spring Canyon again. Some finishing work will still be underway, so please exercise caution.

Progress on the Scenic Drive paving project has been delayed due to colder weather and a revised schedule. The first layer of pavement has been laid, and Scenic Drive will reopen on November 26 up to just past the Grand Wash intersection. The section from Grand Wash to Capitol Gorge, including the new restroom and parking lot at Capitol Gorge, is expected to open in late December. Construction will continue along the Scenic Drive throughout the winter, so be prepared for occasional lane closures and traffic management.

In spring 2025, Scenic Drive will temporarily close again to allow crews to lay the final layer of pavement, with a full reopening planned afterward.

For updates and details on the project, visit the park's website at https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenic-drive-rehabilitation-project.htm, where you'll also find a link to the project planning page with additional information about the upgrades and designs.