Capitol Reef is a lesser-known gem with amazing red rocks and cool formations! It is much less-crowded that the other four National Parks in Utah, but no less awesome! I have posted several hikes in Capitol Reef, but I thought I’d include them all in one post.
Cassidy Arch
Cassidy Arch is spectacular because you can walk right on top of it! This is a 3 mile round trip moderate hike:
Cohab Canyon
One of the coolest hikes is Cohab Canyon. Unlike many of the hikes found in washes or slots, this can even be hiked in the rain. Here are a few photos of this three mile roundtrip hike:
Click here to learn more about the Cohab Canyon hike:
Sulphur Creek Waterfall
Sulphur Creek Waterfall is a great one even during the heat of the day, because you walk through the cooler water to get there. This one is 1.8 miles roundtrip and easy:
For more information on the Sulphur Creek Waterfall hike, click here:
Hickman Bridge
Of course the most iconic hike in the park is to Hickman Bridge. This is 1.8 miles roundtrip and moderate:
For more details on Hickman Bridge click here:
Goosenecks and Sunset Point
The Goosenecks Overlook is a beautiful overlook down to the winding Sulphur Creek 800 feet below. There is a short 0.6 roundtrip mile easy walk to the Sunset Point Viewpoints.
For more information click here:
Grand Wash
Grand Wash Trail is the narrow canyon where the rains collect. It has sections of tall walls to walk between. It is an easy 1-4 miles, depending on how far you go.
Click here for more information on the Grand Wash Trail:
If you are coming from the west side, check out Fish Lake. If you are coming from the East, check out the Mars-like badlands in Hanksville or Goblin Valley just north of Hanksville.
Stats:
Seasons to hike – Year-Round
Permits needed – $20 per car for a 7-day pass (or a National Parks Pass)
Pets allowed – No