Grand Wash Trail

The trail can be accessed from two points. One trailhead is located off Highway 24, and the other is at the end of Grand Wash Road, which is part of the Scenic Drive within Capitol Reef National Park. The latter shares a parking lot with the Cassidy Arch trailhead, allowing for flexible out-and-back or one-way shuttle hike options.

While there isn't a specific permit required for hiking the Grand Wash Trail itself, it is located within Capitol Reef National Park. There is an entrance fee to access the Scenic Drive, which leads to one of the trailheads. Check the official National Park Service website for current fee information.

Yes, this trail is generally considered easy and is very suitable for beginners, families, and children. Its largely flat terrain and minimal elevation change make it an accessible option for a casual stroll through the canyon. It's a great way to introduce kids to hiking and exploring unique geological formations.

The trail primarily follows a dry stream bed, which can be sandy, rocky, and occasionally muddy after rain. It's largely flat with towering sandstone cliffs on either side, reaching heights of 500 to 700 feet. You'll walk through wide canyon bottoms that narrow significantly in sections, most notably in 'The Narrows'.

A major highlight is The Narrows, a spectacular half-mile section where the canyon walls constrict to as little as 15-16 feet wide. You'll also see impressive rock formations, natural arches, small caves, and honeycombed rock with streaks of 'desert varnish'. The trail also offers a Canyon View in Capitol Reef National Park and a ruin of a cabin reportedly used by Butch Cassidy.

Spring and fall offer the most temperate weather for hiking. Summer can be very hot, requiring plenty of water and sun protection, while winter hikes are possible with appropriate cold-weather gear. The trail is open year-round, but always check weather conditions, especially for flash flood warnings during monsoon season.

No, pets are generally not allowed on hiking trails in Capitol Reef National Park, including the Grand Wash Trail. Service animals are an exception to this rule.

The primary safety concern is the risk of flash floods, especially during monsoon season or if rain is expected. The canyon can fill with water very quickly, making conditions dangerous. Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Also, much of the trail can be exposed to the sun, so bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially in warmer months.

The full out-and-back hike is about 2.4 miles (3.9 km) and typically takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the features along the way.

Yes, the route is entirely part of the Grand Wash Trail. However, it also briefly intersects with sections of the Cassidy Arch Trail and Grand Wash Road, offering connections to other areas within the park.