Capitol Reef National Park guide · 1 min read
Hickman Bridge, Cassidy Arch and Beyond
Hickman Bridge is the shorter of the two popular hikes. The round trip covers 1.8 miles and gains about 400 feet, and most people should allow two to three hours.
The path runs alongside the Fremont River, then climbs to a lookout above Highway 24. It ends at Hickman Bridge, a large natural arch set back near the far end of the canyon.
Cassidy Arch is the more demanding of the two, at 3.4 miles round trip with about 845 feet of total ascent. The route begins on the Grand Wash Trail, then zigzags up a string of switchbacks before flattening out across slickrock. Piles of rock called cairns mark the rest of the way, so keep an eye out for them on the bare stone. At the arch, you can admire it from a distance or step out onto the top, which makes it a favorite spot for photos.
Scenic Drive is the park's main road, and Cassidy Arch is easily reached from it. The paved section begins once you pass the Fruita Campground. Grand Wash makes an easy outing that leads into the Narrows section of the wash. You can get onto it from Highway 24, or from the far end of Grand Wash Road, which turns off Scenic Drive.
Hiking here runs from short walks to longer backcountry routes. The Fruita District alone has fifteen trails, so visitors can choose short walks or longer routes. The visitor center offers a hiking guide that covers short day outings as well as deeper backcountry routes.
