Wedged between blush-colored cliffs and bordered with emerald meadows, this 19th-century pioneering town is perfectly situated for outdoor fun and adventures.
Torrey is a captivating central Utah town amid some of the state’s most magnificent natural landscapes. From the stark beauty of the desert to alpine lakes brimming with trout and rugged mountains, Torrey is surrounded by boundless splendor and is a great stepping-stone for backcountry adventure. Go hiking, canyoneering, mountain biking and climbing around the red-rock formations. Experience the thrills of exploring the rugged landscape with a dirt bike or four-wheel drive.
Learn about the intriguing history of this tree-lined town. Established in the 1880s by Mormon settlers, the town hints at its pioneering past with preserved buildings and historic landmarks. Check out the old Schoolhouse built from logs and red sandstone.
Stop at the visitor center of Capitol Reef National ParkOpens in a new window, 8 miles (13 kilometers) from Torrey, to find out what kind of outdoors experience you can have during your stay. Pick up maps and tour operator brochures and get ready to explore the surrounding environment. The park encompasses a vast tract of otherworldly rock formations. Explore deep canyons, windswept cliffs and the intriguing Navajo-sandstone Waterpocket Fold. Hike or drive through this mesmerizing landscape and camp overnight at shaded campgrounds.
Travel northwest from Torrey to reach the mountainous Fishlake National Forest, which features pristine aspen woodlands, mountain meadows and a lake stocked with trout. Dixie National Forest stretches across southern Utah to the west of Torrey. Check out red-rock spires and hike through stands of ponderosa pines.
Visit in August to watch the annual Tour of Utah cycling race pass through the town. Torrey has a range of lodging options. Visit in summer to enjoy Torrey’s mild temperatures at an elevation of 6,830 feet (2,082 meters). The town’s closest major airport is Canyonlands Field near MoabOpens in a new window. Salt Lake CityOpens in a new window is about 210 miles (340 kilometers) away.
Add Torrey to your road trip along Scenic Byway 12, also known as Utah’s All-American Road.
