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Hikes/United States/Utah/Capitol Reef National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
368 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
10.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Cottonwood Wash

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Table of contents

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.

Route Description for Cottonwood Wash

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.

Getting to the Cottonwood Wash Trailhead

This hike begins at the Cottonwood Wash parking area on the west side of Notom-Bullfrog Road.

Route Information

  • 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 Elevation Graph

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