
Gifford Homestead Capitol Reef National Park
Historic homestead in Capitol Reef serving legendary homemade pies, cinnamon rolls, and local crafts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure your favorite pie!

Gifford Homestead Capitol Reef National Park
Best Time
Secure your favorite pie!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic homestead in Capitol Reef serving legendary homemade pies, cinnamon rolls, and local crafts.
"Did you even go to Capitol Reef National Park if you didn’t have PIE from Gifford Homestead?"

🎯 Arrive Early for Pie!
Popular pie flavors sell out fast. Get there right when they open!
💰 Check Prices
While pies are reasonably priced, some souvenirs can be quite expensive.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Homemade Pies
Gifford Homestead
Savor flaky crusts and fresh fruit fillings. Apple, cherry, peach, and berry are popular choices.

Cinnamon Rolls & Sourdough
Gifford Homestead
Limited quantities of these baked goods are available, often selling out fast.

Historic Homestead Buildings
Gifford Homestead grounds
Explore the 1908 homestead and learn about pioneer life in Capitol Reef.

Local Crafts & Souvenirs
Gifford Homestead gift shop
Discover unique, locally made items and gifts, perfect for a memento.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pie is the Star, Arrive Early!
More Than Just Pie: History & Gifts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Pie!
Popular pie flavors sell out fast. Get there right when they open!
💰 Check Prices
While pies are reasonably priced, some souvenirs can be quite expensive.
🧺 Picnic Spot Nearby
Enjoy your pie at the picnic tables outside or in the nearby picnic area.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the historic buildings and learn about the homestead's past.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Pie!
Popular pie flavors sell out fast. Get there right when they open!
💰 Check Prices
While pies are reasonably priced, some souvenirs can be quite expensive.
🧺 Picnic Spot Nearby
Enjoy your pie at the picnic tables outside or in the nearby picnic area.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the historic buildings and learn about the homestead's past.
🌱 Vegan Pie Options
They offer some delicious vegan pie choices for those with dietary needs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the delicious homemade pies at the Gifford Homestead, calling them a must-try in Capitol Reef National Park. The flaky crusts and fresh fruit fillings are highlights, though popular items can sell out quickly. While the pies offer great value, some souvenir prices are noted as high. The historic charm of the homestead adds to the overall positive experience.
"Great pie and National Parks. A pairing that is a great idea. They also have limited quantities of cinnamon rolls and sourdough bread. At least that's what the label on the empty case says.
Pie flavors include apple, strawberry rhubarb, mixed berry, peach, and cherry. We tried cherry, peach (pictured), and strawberry rhubarb. They were all very tasty and the crust was flaky and delicious.
I wish I could have more great pie like these at other national parks!"
Teresa Fung
"Great little spot. The place itself is a bit small but what else would you expect, it's part of the charm. Very cool little gifts and things to buy. Has a small museum in one of the rooms. They sell some very yummy fruits and jams. The pies are amazing. Home made and delicious. Easy to find, not sure why others can't, must be a personal issue navigating a map."
Victor
"The pies are amazing, especially for only $8.50. But they close for lunch and some of the items are ridiculously expensive, like $54 for a wooden spoon. There are picnic tables right outside to sit and eat or the picnic area just before the homestead."
brandon dengler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gifford Homestead is located in the Fruita district of Capitol Reef National Park, along UT-24. It's easily accessible by car and is a central point within the park. Many visitors stop here as part of a scenic drive through the park.
Yes, there is a parking area near the Gifford Homestead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours and seasons. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! If you're camping at the Fruita Campground or nearby dispersed camping areas, the Gifford Homestead is a convenient and popular stop for a treat.
Many visitors combine a stop at the Gifford Homestead with scenic drives, short hikes like Hickman Bridge or Cassidy Arch, and exploring the historic Fruita orchards.
The main road through Fruita (UT-24) is accessible for RVs. Parking at the homestead itself might be more challenging for larger vehicles, but there are often pull-offs and nearby areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate ticket required to enter the Gifford Homestead itself. However, you will need a valid Capitol Reef National Park entrance pass to be in the park.
The Gifford Homestead typically operates seasonally, usually from late spring through early fall. They often close for a lunch break, so it's best to check their specific hours before your visit.
Pies are generally around $8.50, which is considered a great value for homemade pie in a national park setting.
Reservations are typically not accepted for pies. Due to high demand and limited quantities, it's best to arrive early to purchase them.
Yes, Capitol Reef National Park has an entrance fee. You can purchase a pass at the park's visitor center or online. The Gifford Homestead is located within the park boundaries.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Besides enjoying delicious pies, cinnamon rolls, and sourdough, you can explore the historic 1908 homestead buildings, visit a small museum, and browse unique locally made gifts and souvenirs.
Popular flavors often include apple, cherry, peach, mixed berry, and strawberry rhubarb. However, flavors can rotate daily, so check what's available when you visit.
Yes, the Gifford Homestead sometimes offers vegan pie options. It's advisable to inquire directly about specific dietary accommodations.
Yes, there are picnic tables located just outside the homestead where you can enjoy your treats. There's also a larger picnic area nearby.
You can find a variety of locally made goods, jams, crafts, and unique gifts. Some items, like wooden spoons, can be surprisingly expensive.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main draw is their famous homemade pies, but they also offer cinnamon rolls, sourdough bread, ice cream, and sometimes fresh fruit.
The Gifford Homestead typically closes for a lunch break. It's important to check their operating hours for the day you plan to visit.
Most visitors agree that the pies are delicious, flaky, and well worth the price, especially considering they are homemade and located within a national park.
While the focus is on baked goods, they may offer basic beverages. It's best to bring your own water, especially if you plan on hiking.
Besides the Gifford Homestead, dining options are limited within the park. The town of Torrey, just outside the park, offers more restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming historic buildings, the vibrant pies on display, and the scenic Fruita valley with its orchards and red rock backdrop.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the homestead. Be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage.
Early morning light offers beautiful soft illumination on the buildings and orchards. Late afternoon can also provide lovely golden hour shots.
The Pendleton Barn and the historic orchards surrounding the homestead are excellent subjects for photography, often featuring horses grazing.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Pies of Gifford Homestead
It's crucial to understand that these pies are a hot commodity. Many visitors report that popular flavors sell out by mid-morning, especially during peak tourist seasons. This has led to a common piece of advice: arrive early. Some even suggest making the homestead one of your first stops in the park to ensure you get your desired flavor. While the pies are a highlight, remember that the homestead also offers other tempting treats like cinnamon rolls and sourdough bread, which also have limited quantities and sell out quickly.
For those with dietary preferences, the homestead has been known to offer vegan pie options, adding to its appeal for a wider range of visitors. Even if you're not a huge pie person, many reviewers mention being pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoyed them. The experience of enjoying a warm slice of pie with the backdrop of Capitol Reef's unique landscape is truly special.
A Glimpse into Capitol Reef's Pioneer Past
Within the homestead, a small museum showcases artifacts and information about the families who lived and worked there. This adds an educational layer to your visit, helping you understand the challenges and resilience of those who settled this remote area. The surrounding orchards, still maintained, are a testament to the agricultural efforts of the past and contribute to the picturesque scenery that makes Fruita so unique. Seeing these historic structures against the backdrop of Capitol Reef's dramatic geology is a powerful experience.
While the homestead is a focal point, the entire Fruita area is rich with history. Nearby structures like the Pendleton Barn also offer photographic opportunities and further insights into the area's past. The Gifford Homestead serves as a charming gateway to understanding the human story woven into the natural grandeur of Capitol Reef National Park.
Navigating the Gifford Homestead Experience
Beyond the baked goods, the homestead offers a variety of locally made crafts and souvenirs. While these can be charming mementos, some reviewers note that certain items, like wooden spoons, can be surprisingly expensive. It's worth browsing, but be mindful of pricing if you're on a budget. The homestead also provides a pleasant spot to relax; there are picnic tables available just outside where you can enjoy your pie, or you can head to the nearby picnic area.
Remember that the homestead operates seasonally and often closes for a lunch break. Always check their current operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Combining your visit with a short hike or scenic drive in the Fruita area makes for a perfect Capitol Reef outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit