Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
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Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
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The Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is a gorgeous hike in Capitol Reef National Park. This hike is relatively easy, well-marked, and well maintained. Head out on this route to enjoy the incredible views, and spend the day exploring the beauty and wonder of the Utah desert with the whole family.
Getting there
This hike starts along Grand Wash Road on the north side of Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | March to October |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
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Grand Wash Trail via Capitol Reef Scenic Drive Description
The Grand Wash Trail is a fantastic hike over beautiful desert terrain. This route is more often done from the Grand Wash Trail via Northeast Trailhead but the experience is incredible either way. The Grand Wash Trail is one of the more popular trails in Capitol Reef National Park so be sure to arrive early in the day to snag a parking spot at the trailhead. This hike does have shady sections as it winds its way through the canyon but you should still be prepared to battle the desert sun with proper sun protection and lots of water. If you have adventurous kids, or just love exploring cool rock formations yourself, this is the perfect hike for you as the Grand Wash Trail has so many cool geological features to climb around and explore.
From the trailhead, follow the path northeast. You will see a trail split off to the west, this is the Cassidy Arch Trail and can be a great addition to your day exploring this area. To continue on the Grand Wash Trail, stay right at this divide and follow the well marked route through the narrows until you reach the northeast trailhead.
At the northeast trailhead, do a 180 and follow the same path back down to where you started.
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