Trail Guide

Difficulty: Easy

Start: The Grand Wash is an out and back trail that essentially connects the park's Scenic Drive to State Route 24. You can hike the trail in either direction. The first trailhead can be accessed via the park's Scenic Drive, located at the end of Grand Wash Road. Here you'll find a bathroom and trash receptacles. The other trailhead is located just off State Route 24, with roadside parking.

Distance: 2.2 mi (3.6 km) one-way

Elevation change: 200 feet (61 m)

Hiking time: 1-1.5 hours one-way

Trail type: Sand, dirt, and rock trail

Single use: The trail is open to foot traffic only, no bicycles or other vehicles.

Dogs: Pets are prohibited on the trail.

Seasonality: Open year-round; some shade on the trail, summer visitors should plan to hike early and carry lots of weather.

Fees and permits: Park entry fee required.

GPS Coordinates, Parking and Regulations

GPS Coordinates (38.27823,-111.19248)

The park is at a high elevation — 5,000 feet — compared to many other many other desert areas in Utah. Spring and autumn are the most temperate seasons to visit. Winter in Capitol Reef National Park can be cold and snowy, but with the proper preparation it can offer a unique and serene experience. Summers are hot, but not unbearable. Daily summertime highs are usually in the 90s. Severe thunderstorms occur on July and August afternoons. Watch for lightning.

An entrance fee is charged for Capitol Reef National Park; America the Beautiful passes are also accepted. Pets are allowed on leash only in the developed areas of the park: campgrounds, picnic area, orchards when they are open and along paved and dirt roadways. The park does not permit pets in the backcountry, on hiking trails, or in public buildings.