Capitol Reef, the middle child of Utah’s National Parks, is often forgotten but is still a substantial part of this world-class national park family. Known mostly for being an International Dark Sky Park, during the day there are a few trails worth hiking. If you only have time to do one hike in this park, go with the Hickman Bridge Trail.

Hickman Bridge isn’t hard by any means.  There are some short climbs were you gain most of your elevation but for the most part, it’s smooth sailing. Capitol Reef National Park rated this trail as moderate difficulty, mainly due to the uneven surface of the slick-rock that encompasses most of the trail.

You’ll start your journey beside the Fremont River. After your hike, this is a good spot to kick-off your foul smelling boots and soak your filthy feet. Let’s focus on getting to Hickman’s Bridge first. Head up the red stone steps and continue on the switchbacks until you see the 3-way junction of Hickman Bridge, Navajo Knobs, and the Rim Overlook trails.

The Navajo Knobs would be an extraordinary hike if you planned to spend a few days in the park. That is not why you’re here though so stop dilly-dallying and go left.

Navajo Sandstone

Hickman Bridge doesn’t provide many views of sweeping vistas but the entirety of the hike exposes you to the beauty of the Navajo Sandstone that Capitol Reef is known for. Similar to the Grand Canyon, although not as colorful, the layers and layers of eroded stone will make you stop and stare at the most ordinary of rocks, catching yourself saying, “Dang nature, you pretty” or something to that effect.

One of the most picturesque sandstone creations is known as Pectol’s Pyramid. The best view is on your return trip so keep those feet moving, you’re almost to the bridge.

Hickman Bridge

What’s the difference between a bridge and an arch? I don’t have a punchline here or a cheesy joke but buckle up because I am about to drop some knowledge on you. A natural bridge is formed by flowing water constantly wearing away the stone as opposed to an arch which is formed by the weak spots in the rock eroding over time. Boom! Science!

Knowing how the Hickman Bridge was created gives you a greater understanding of what the landscape would have looked like hundreds of thousands of years ago. Hickman Bridge spans 133′ across and 125′ high. It’s massive compared to some of the arches in Arches National Park.

Continue under the arch for a panoramic view of Capitol Reef and if timed correctly in the year, a variety of wildflowers.

Trail Tips

• The bugs here are awful, make sure to pack bug spray.
• There is no shade along the trail to get an early start
• Cairns mark the trail if you start to lose the natural path

Chad Albright

Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.