Hiking Capitol Reef: Cassidy Arch Trail Guide
Hike to Capitol Reef's picturesque Cassidy Arch with this complete trail guide. Featuring everything you need to know before you go, including how to get to the trail, the best time to visit, what to bring, & all about the trail.
Cassidy Arch is one of the top hikes to do when visiting Capitol Reef National Park. Panoramic canyon views, colorful red rock scenery, and breathtaking arches make this trail one to add to your bucket list. If you’re looking to see the beauty of Capitol Reef from 6,000 feet, this trail is the place to do it.
Pets are not allowed on the trail to Cassidy Arch.
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TRAIL STATS
Distance: 3.1 Miles | Difficulty: Strenuous | Elevation Gain: 666 FT | Time: 2 Hrs | No Pets
GETTING TO CASSIDY ARCH
MAIN PARK ENTRANCE
From the main park entrance to Capitol Reef National Park it’s 4.7 miles or about a 20 minute drive to the Cassidy Arch Trailhead. Once you enter the park take Campground Road/ Scenic Dr south for 3.3 miles. Make a left onto Grand Wash Rd for 1.3 miles until you get to a parking lot. The trailhead will be on the left. Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.
See our Complete Guide to Capitol Reef for the parks full pet policy, entrance fees, & amenities.
WHEN TO VISIT
Capitol Reef National Park is open all year long giving you the opportunity to see this park in a variety of ways. The busiest months are March to June and September to October for the parks ideal hiking and camping weather. For less crowds, plan your hike during the week and start your day in the park early.
TIP | Check with the park rangers at the visitor center for current conditions of the trail and Grand Wash Rd. Heavy rain can cause Grand Wash Rd to close which will add milage to your hike.
WHAT TO BRING
Plenty of Water
Capitol Reef National Park is high desert which means hot and dry especially in the summer. Be sure to pack extra water and stay hydrated while exploring. We love adding LMNT’s Electrolyte Packets to our Simple Modern Insulated Water Bottles to have ice cold water for the whole day.
Hiking Shoes
While there are many easy paths to explore in Capitol Reef there are a few trails that are rocky, sandy, and steep. To have the most comfortable experience on the trails we recommend wearing a proper hiking shoe or boot to provide traction and support. Columbia Mens & Women’s Hiking Boots are a game changer.
Sun Protectant
There is no shade on any trails in the park so it’s best to bring your favorite sunscreen and wear sun protectant clothing when exploring.
Hiking Sticks
Montem Ultra Strong Hiking Poles have been a LIFE SAVER when exploring national parks. They’re helpful in giving you extra support as you climb up steep trails as well as coming down steep trails. They provide extra stability and we no longer hike without them.
First Aid Kit
General Medi Mini First Aid Kit is a must have when exploring national parks. Cell service doesn’t really exist in the park so it’s good to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Lunch / Snacks
It is highly recommended to pick a lunch and snacks when visiting Capitol Reef. There aren’t many food options in the park, so it’s a good idea to pack a good lunch and plenty of snacks.
AMENITIES NEARBY
IN THE PARK
VISITOR CENTER
Open year round and a great place to start your adventure in Capitol Reef. Load up on info, pick up a park map, and get exploring. Here you can also find water filling stations, restrooms, gift shop, museum exhibit, and permits for backcountry camping, canyoneering, and rock climbing. Hours and services vary by season so it’s best to check for current conditions before planning a trip. Wifi is also available here.
NEARBY TOWNS
TORREY
Located 11 miles from the entrance and is known as the Gateway to Capitol Reef National Park. It was established in 1880 by Mormon settlers and was originally known as Youngtown. The town sits at 6,700 feet and has a population of 182.
ABOUT THE TRAIL
Distance: 3.1 Miles | Difficulty: Strenuous | Elevation Gain: 666 FT | Time: 2 Hrs | No Pets
The trail to Cassidy Arch starts from the Grand Wash road parking lot. You’ll take a short walk on the Grand Wash and then split off to left to head toward Cassidy Arch.
Walking the Grand Wash Road.
The first 0.5 mile of the trail is the most strenuous with an elevation gain of about 300 feet. The trail climbs up a series of steep steps along the side of a rock wall with breathtaking views of the Grand Wash Road below.
The next half mile of the trail winds along the rim of the canyon, through red rock gardens and bright green Juniper trees providing bits of shade from the sun if needed. You can also see Ferns Nipple off to the south.
Juniper Trees & Colorful Rock Formations.
Ferns Nipple.
From here the trail starts to level out as you come up to the first view of Cassidy Arch off in the distance.
The last half mile of the trail passes through an open rock ridge marked by cairns until you get to Cassidy Arch.
If you’re feeling adventurous take a walk across the arch and enjoy the views. Don’t forget to check out the view from the west.
Let us know what are your favorite things to do at Capitol Reef National Park in the comments below!
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WE’RE MIKE & DEANDRA.
Two adventure seekers traveling the U.S in our 37 FT. travel trailer with our two companions, Griffin & Lucy. We share our life on the road and travel guides to our favorite destinations.
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