Cottonwood Wash
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Cottonwood Wash
Difficulty Rating:
The Cottonwood Wash Trail is a lovely low-traffic hike in Capitol Reef National Park. This hike has lots of opportunities for adventure with some good scramble sections over large rocks. While you’re hiking along, keep an eye out for desert wildlife such as lizards, snakes, and hawks.
Getting there
This hike begins at the Cottonwood Wash parking area on the west side of Notom-Bullfrog Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | March to November |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Low |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Cottonwood Wash
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Cottonwood Wash Description
The Cottonwood Wash Trail is a moderately challenging hike in a low-traffic area of Capitol Reef National Park. Along this trail, you will have to climb and clamber your way over rocky sections so wear proper footwear with good grip. Until you get to the slot canyon section, there is no shade along this route so lather on the sunscreen and wear a good sunhat to block the desert rays. Overall, this hike is a fun little adventure along a rugged trail and the slot canyon section is cool and serene. If you are looking for a quiet day exploring Capitol Reef National Park, this is a great trail for you.
From the parking area, follow the path westward along Cottonwood wash. Continue down the Wash and through the narrows until you reach an insurmountable obstacle or just decide you’ve seen enough.
When you are ready to head home, turn around and follow your footsteps back to the parking area.
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