The 12 Best Hikes in Capitol Reef National Park (with Stats, Tips & Pics)

Capitol Reef National Park is Utah’s under-the-radar gem—think soaring domes, natural bridges, petroglyphs, and narrow canyons without the crowds. This guide covers the best hikes in Capitol Reef, from family-friendly walks in Fruita to all-day ridge lines with big views of the Waterpocket Fold.

At-a-glance: Spring and fall offer the best temperatures. Start early, carry 2–3L of water per person, and always check the weather—flash floods are real in washes and canyons.

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Quick Picks

• Best first hike: Hickman Bridge (easy, iconic natural bridge)
  
• Best viewpoints: Rim Overlook (moderate) or Navajo Knobs (strenuous)
  
• Best slot-feel without technical gear: Grand Wash or Capitol Gorge
  
• Photographer’s favorite: Cassidy Arch (you stand on the arch!)
  
• Hidden gems: Cohab Canyon & Surprise Canyon (Waterpocket District)
  
  

Trail List (Round-trip distances unless noted)

Trail stats are approximate; conditions change. Confirm at the Visitor Center before you go.

1) Hickman Bridge Trail — 

1.8 mi | ~400 ft | Easy

A short climb to a 133-foot natural bridge with classic views of the Fremont River canyon.

Trailhead: Highway 24, east of Fruita.

Pro Tip: Combine with a quick stop at the nearby petroglyph boardwalk.
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2) Cassidy Arch — 

3.1–3.4 mi | ~670 ft | Moderate

Switchbacks lead to a dramatic arch you can walk across (use caution).

Trailhead: Grand Wash picnic area (Capitol Reef Scenic Drive).

Pro Tip: Start early for shade on the initial climb and fewer people on the arch.
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3) Grand Wash — 

2.2–4.8 mi | Minimal gain | Easy

Towering walls narrow to a slot-like corridor. Hike out-and-back from either end or do a one-way with a car shuttle (Hwy 24 ↔ Scenic Drive).

Pro Tip: Avoid if storms are forecast—flash-flood prone.

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4) Capitol Gorge (to Pioneer Register) — 

2.0 mi | Minimal gain | Easy

Walk a historic roadbed through a tall canyon; see inscriptions from early pioneers plus petroglyphs.

Add-on: Golden Throne overlook spur (~4.0 mi | ~730 ft | Moderate) from the same area.

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5) Cohab Canyon — 

3.0–3.4 mi | ~800 ft | Moderate

A delightful canyon with side-spur viewpoints over Fruita and the orchards.

Trailhead: Across from Fruita campground or off Hwy 24 (can be done one-way with a shuttle).

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6) Chimney Rock Loop — 

3.6 mi | ~590 ft | Moderate

Climb to bench-level views, then loop the badlands beneath Mummy Cliff and Chimney Rock.

Trailhead: Hwy 24 pullout west of Fruita.

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7) Rim Overlook — 

4.6–5.0 mi | ~1,000 ft | Moderate

One of the best viewpoints above Fruita, with sweeping panoramas of domes and orchards.

Trailhead: Starts on Hickman Bridge Trail, then branches to the rim.

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8) Navajo Knobs — 

9.0–9.5 mi | ~2,200 ft | Strenuous

Capitol Reef’s marquee summit hike: a ridge-top finale with 360° views of the Waterpocket Fold.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time or energy, turn around at Rim Overlook for a great half-day.

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9) Fremont River Trail — 

2.0 mi | ~480 ft | Easy-Moderate

A flat riverside stroll that climbs to a sunset overlook above Fruita.

Trailhead: Behind the Gifford House area.

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10) Surprise Canyon (Waterpocket District) — 

2.0–2.2 mi | ~200 ft | Easy

Short, scenic narrows and striped canyon walls.

Access: South via Notom–Bullfrog Rd (washboard; check conditions). High-clearance can be helpful.

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11) Headquarters Canyon (Waterpocket District) — 

2.0–2.5 mi | ~240 ft | Easy

A sibling to Surprise Canyon with quiet, photogenic narrows.

Pro Tip: Do both on the same day; they’re close together.

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12) Panorama Point → Sunset Point & Goosenecks Overlook — 

1.0–1.5 mi total | Easy

Short paths to huge views, perfect for families or a golden-hour capstone.

Trailhead: Off Hwy 24 near the park’s west entrance area.

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1–2 Day Itineraries

If you have ½ Day

• Hickman Bridge → Rim Overlook (turn around at the overlook)
  
• OR Grand Wash out-and-back + Sunset Point/Goosenecks at golden hour
  
  

If you have 1 Full Day

• Morning: Cassidy Arch
  
• Mid-day: Fruita (Picnic, Gifford House pie, orchards in season)
  
• Afternoon: Capitol Gorge to Pioneer Register
  
• Sunset: Fremont River Trail overlook or Sunset Point
  
  

If you have 2 Days

• Day 1: Hickman Bridge → Rim Overlook; Fruita historic district; Chimney Rock Loop at dusk
  
• Day 2: Navajo Knobs (start early)
  
• Optional add-on: Waterpocket District (Surprise + Headquarters Canyons) if conditions and time allow
  
  

Planning Tips for Capitol Reef Hikes

• Best time to visit: March–May & September–October for mild temps and stable weather. For the best rates, visit in July and August. Capitol Reef has the coolest temperatures in Southern Utah compared to the other parks in the Mighty Five.
  
• Heat & water: Summer can be hot; bring lots of water, electrolytes and sun protection.
  
• Flash floods: Avoid narrow canyons (Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge) during storms.
  
• Trail etiquette & wildlife: Stay on trail; do not carve or touch rock art; pack out all trash.
  
• Dogs: Not allowed on most trails (leashed only in developed areas like campgrounds and roads).
  
• Roads: Some district roads (Notom–Bullfrog, Cathedral Valley) can be rough or impassable when wet; check conditions.
  
• Fruita Orchards: Seasonal U-pick fruit is a signature Capitol Reef experience—check availability at the Visitor Center.
  
• Fresh Pies: Pick up a fresh pie at the famous Gifford House to enjoy on your hike. 

FAQs

Is Capitol Reef good for beginners?

Yes—Hickman Bridge, Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge, and Sunset Point are easy and very rewarding.

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What’s the most iconic hike?

Cassidy Arch for the photo, Hickman Bridge for the classic natural bridge, and Navajo Knobs for the biggest views.

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How many days should I spend in Capitol Reef?

1–2 days covers highlights; hikers should plan 2–3 days to include Rim Overlook or Navajo Knobs plus Waterpocket District narrows.

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Do I need a permit?

No permit for day hikes on established trails. Backcountry overnights require permits (check at the Visitor Center).