The Hickman Bridge Trail offers a quintessential Capitol Reef experience: a short, easy walk to one of the park’s most iconic natural arches. The well-marked path winds through towering red and cream sandstone cliffs, showcasing the layered geology that defines this region. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic rock formations, shaded nooks, and open viewpoints perfect for photography or a quiet rest. To help you plan your visit to this accessible and scenic trail in Utah‘s Capitol Reef National Park, we’ve put together this Hickman Bridge hiking guide, complete with details on trail difficulty, estimated hiking time, and the natural highlights that make this short hike so rewarding.
Hickman Bridge Trail – At a Glance
Easy Capitol Reef hike – A short, family-friendly out-and-back to the iconic Hickman Bridge natural arch, with modest elevation gain and a well-marked path, perfect for beginner and casual hikers.
Striking geology and scenery – Towering red and cream sandstone cliffs showcase Capitol Reef’s classic rock layers, offering dramatic views and great photo opportunities.
Main Highlight: Hickman Bridge itself, a massive natural arch spanning 133 feet and rising 125 feet above the canyon floor.
Convenient trailhead access – Begin right from the dedicated parking area on Highway 24, making this one of the park’s most accessible adventures.
Year-round appeal – Open in all seasons, with shady sections in summer and dramatic low light in winter that beautifully frames the arch.
Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (short trail with noticeable elevation gain)
Typical Hike Duration: 1h-1h15
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Hickman Bridge Trail Location, Map, and How to Get There
The Hickman Bridge Trail is located in the northern part of Capitol Reef National Park, near the settlement of Fruita and the Capitol Reef visitor center (link to Google Maps).
The simplest way to reach the Hickman Bridge trail is by driving there, as public transportation to Capitol Reef National Park is very limited.
Driving times to Capitol Reef National Park (Fruita area)
- Salt Lake City, UT: 350 km / 220 mi – about 3.5–4 hours
- Moab, UT: 240 km / 150 mi – about 2.5–3 hours
- Bryce Canyon City, UT: 190 km / 120 mi – about 2.5 hours
- Page, AZ (Lake Powell): 420 km / 260 mi – about 4.5-5 hours
- Las Vegas, NV: 540 km / 335 mi – about 5–5.5 hours
- St. George, UT: 350 km / 220 mi – about 3.5–4 hours
These times assume good weather and minimal stops; add extra time for scenic byways such as Highway 12, which is slower but spectacular.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada and Arizona.
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Nearest Gas Station
There are several gas stations west of Fruita in Torrey, about a 15-minute drive away. Heading east, the nearest gas station is in Hanksville, about a 45-minute drive away.
Hickman Bridge Trail Access, Fees, and Parking
Trailhead location: The Hickman Bridge trailhead can be accessed from the trail’s parking lot (link to Google Maps).
Parking lot: The parking lot isn’t overly large, with space for only about 15-20 vehicles. The lot fills up quickly, especially during peak hours. Overflow parking is commonly found along the roadside (we had to park along the road during our visit). To secure a spot close by, we recommend trying to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening.
Facilities: Vault toilets are available at the parking area.
Trail opening Hours: The Hickman Bridge Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day.
Trail access and fees
Anyone visiting Capitol Reef National Park, whether to hike, take a scenic drive, or simply enjoy the views, must pay the applicable entrance fee to the National Park Service.
Entrance Fees (per vehicle, valid 7 days)
Private vehicle: $20
Motorcycle: $15
Individual (on foot, bicycle, etc.): $10
Annual Pass Options
Capitol Reef Annual Pass: $35 – unlimited entry for one year from the month of purchase.
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 – valid for one year at all U.S. National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide.
As of 2025, passes can be purchased at the Visitor Center in Fruita (link to Google Maps), self-pay stations, or online through the USGS website or via the REI store.
Which Pass Should You Get?
Capitol Reef Annual Pass ($35): Best if you live nearby or plan to visit Capitol Reef multiple times within a year. It pays off after just two visits.
America the Beautiful Pass ($80): If your trip includes Capitol Reef plus at least two other national parks or monuments (for example, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Zion, or even Grand Canyon), this is the clear winner. Many Utah road trips easily cover 3–5 parks, making this pass the best value by far.
7-Day Vehicle Pass ($20): The right choice if you’re only passing through Capitol Reef once and don’t plan on visiting any other U.S. national parks within a year.
—> Most visitors exploring Utah’s “Mighty 5” parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion) should strongly consider the America the Beautiful Pass—it saves money and avoids the hassle of buying separate entry fees at each park.
About Capitol Reef National Park
Waterpocket Fold Wonder: Capitol Reef protects the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust that formed 50–70 million years ago. Towering cliffs, slot canyons, and natural bridges reveal colorful layers of sandstone, limestone, and shale that tell a geologic story spanning hundreds of millions of years.
Fruita’s Living History: At the heart of the park lies Fruita, a historic Mormon settlement where 19th-century orchards still bloom each spring. Visitors can pick ripe peaches, apples, and cherries in season, wander past preserved pioneer buildings, and stop at the classic Gifford Homestead for fresh pies and jams.
Dark Skies & Quiet Nights: Far from major cities, Capitol Reef is designated a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park, offering some of Utah’s clearest stargazing. The combination of high desert air and minimal light pollution makes the Milky Way blaze across the night sky.
Trails for Every Hiker: Despite its rugged appearance, the park offers hikes for all levels. From the easy Grand Wash and Hickman Bridge trails to longer adventures like Navajo Knobs or the multi-day Waterpocket Fold routes, you’ll find everything from slot canyons to sweeping mesa views.
Scenic Byways & Backways: Two spectacular drives showcase the park’s variety: the paved Scenic Drive (with side canyons like Capitol Gorge) and the adventurous Cathedral Valley Loop, a remote route where giant monoliths rise from a desert floor. Both reveal the vast, otherworldly beauty that defines Capitol Reef.
Hickman Bridge Trail Stats, Difficulty, and Map
Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)
Route Type: Out & back
Elevation change: 380 ft / 120 m (difference between trail high and low point)
Elevation gain: 400 ft / 127 m (cumulative elevation gain)
AllTrails rating: (4.7, 9038 ratings (2025))
Duration: Most people complete the trail in 1h-1h15.
Trail difficulty level assessment (based on our personal assessment, taking into account the trail length, slope grade, and trail surface) :
Very Easy | Easy | Moderate | Moderately Challenging | Challenging
Overall, the trail is relatively easy, with only a moderate elevation gain. While less experienced hikers might find that the trail leans more toward a Moderate level of difficulty, we think that for most, the short length of the trail keeps it in the Easy category.
Hickaman Bridge Trail Description and What to Expect
From the Highway 24 trailhead, the Hickman Bridge Trail begins gently, with a flat stretch of sandy path that offers a nice warm-up before the ascent begins.
After the first few hundred feet, the trail veers toward the cliffs and quickly introduces a series of stone staircases. This climb, which lasts for roughly half a kilometer (about a third of a mile), is the most sustained uphill portion of the hike.
If you need to pause for a breather, the reward is immediate: turning back reveals sweeping views of the Fremont River canyon and the ribbon of Highway 24 cutting through Capitol Reef’s colorful layers.
About halfway along, the grade eases, and the trail enters a broad wash. Though usually dry, this drainage carries water during storms, and even between rains, the sandy bottom retains enough sub-surface moisture to support a surprisingly lush pocket of life here, where you’ll find tall cottonwoods, willows, and other shrubs thriving against the backdrop of bare rock.
A few hundred feet later, you’ll reach an intersection where the loop to Hickman Bridge begins.
Taking the right-hand branch first is recommended, as it provides the best approach. The path climbs once more, though only briefly, and then the arch itself begins to appear, slowly at first, then suddenly in full as you crest the rise.
Hickman Bridge is an impressive natural span, 133 feet across and rising 125 feet above the wash below, carved by thousands of years of erosion in the cream-colored Navajo sandstone.
After admiring the bridge from below, the trail continues beneath the arch and loops around. Before rejoining the main trail, the path follows an exposed ledge that rewards hikers with expansive views across Capitol Reef. From here, the panorama includes the jagged Waterpocket Fold, red-and-cream striped cliffs, and the winding Fremont River far below. It’s a perfect spot to linger with a camera.
The loop then reconnects with the outbound path, and you’ll retrace your steps back down through the wash, the staircases, and finally to the canyon floor at Highway 24. Even though the trail is only about 1.8 miles (2.9 km) round trip, it packs a remarkable variety of landscapes and viewpoints into a short distance, making it one of Capitol Reef’s most rewarding family-friendly hikes.
Hickman Bridge Trail – Additional Details and Hiking Tips
Canine companions: Dogs are not permitted on trails in Capitol Reef National Park, including Grand Wash.
Summit: This trail doesn’t lead to a summit. Its highest point is near the Hickman Natural Bridge (~1,745 m / 5,725 ft).
Trail environment – The trail passes through striking red and cream sandstone cliffs, leading to the iconic Hickman Bridge natural arch. The route alternates between open viewpoints and shaded nooks beneath the cliffs, with mostly moderate sun exposure along the way.
Route signage – Signage is minimal but sufficient. The trail is straightforward, following a clear path from the parking area to the natural bridge and back.
Trail surface / Technical aspects – The terrain is easy and non-technical, with a mostly level, sandy, and rocky path. Several sections include steps to help with the elevation gain, and occasional uneven footing may occur due to loose rocks. Still, there are no major obstacles or steep sections, making it accessible to most hikers.
Average trail slope grade: 9%, which is considered a moderate incline.
Previous Hiking Experience: The Hickman Bridge Trail is a short but moderately graded hike, making it accessible to most visitors, including families with older children and casual hikers. The path is well-marked and non-technical, but the steady uphill climb in the first half-mile can feel challenging for beginners. Stone staircases and rocky sections require sturdy footwear, though no special skills are needed. The reward is well worth it: sweeping views of the Fremont River Canyon and the chance to stand beneath one of Capitol Reef’s most iconic natural arches.
Cell Service: Cell service in Capitol Reef is very limited. You may find a weak signal near the Visitor Center or along Highway 24, but coverage quickly drops off once you enter the canyons. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergency communication, and download maps offline before you arrive.
Leave No Trace: Stay within the main wash and designated trail corridor. Cryptobiotic soil, which appears as dark, crusty patches along the desert floor, is extremely fragile, and just one footprint can damage it for decades. Protect the canyon ecosystem by sticking to the trail.
Bugs: Insects are rarely a major nuisance in Capitol Reef compared to wetter parks, but you may encounter mosquitoes near water pockets after summer rains, and gnats can sometimes be present in warmer months. Ticks are uncommon but possible in grassy areas. Overall, bugs are not usually a big factor on this hike.
Equipment: No specialized gear is required for Hickman Bridge, but sturdy walking shoes are recommended for sandy stretches and uneven ground. A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential for hiking in this exposed desert environment.
Weather and Exposure: The trail offers little shade, especially in the initial climb, so be prepared for sun exposure and bring plenty of water. Summer afternoons can be scorching, so mornings or evenings are the most comfortable times to hike. In winter, snow and ice may coat staircases or rocky sections, making good traction essential.
Current Trail Conditions: Check the Capitol Reef Alerts page for up-to-date trail conditions and any notices of temporary trail closure.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
Best Time to Hike the Trail
The Hickman Bridge Trail can be hiked year-round, but the best months are spring (March–May) and fall (September–October), when temperatures are mild, and conditions are most comfortable.
Spring (March–May):
Mild temperatures and occasional wildflower blooms make this one of the most pleasant times to hike. Expect moderate crowds, especially during spring break.
Summer (June–August):
Hot, dry conditions make the exposed portions of the trail intense by midday. Plan to hike early or late, carry plenty of water, and avoid the hottest part of the day.
Fall (September–October):
Cooler air and long golden light make fall an excellent season for photography and comfortable hiking. Trails are quieter than in summer, but still fairly busy on weekends.
Winter (November–February):
The trail is open year-round, and snow is usually light. Cold mornings and icy patches can make footing tricky, so wear sturdy shoes with a good grip. The low winter sun often creates dramatic lighting on Hickman Bridge itself, making for beautiful photos.
Quick Summary – When to Visit
For the most enjoyable conditions, spring and fall are ideal. Summer is manageable if you start early and prepare for the heat. Winter offers solitude and striking scenery, though you’ll need to dress in layers and watch your footing.
Hickman Bridge Trail Add-Ons
For a longer outing, the Hickman Bridge Trail also serves as the starting point for two more ambitious routes: the Rim Overlook Trail and the Navajo Knobs Trail. Both begin where the Hickman Bridge path splits, during the early staircase portion of the trail.
The Rim Overlook Trail adds about 2.6 miles (4.2 km), including the return and climbs roughly 1,000 feet (305 m). It leads to a dramatic perch high above the Fremont River Valley, with sweeping views of Fruita, the orchards, and the Waterpocket Fold stretching into the distance. This is a favorite for those who want to pair Hickman Bridge’s close-up geology with a panoramic perspective. The round trip takes on average 2.5-3h to complete.
For an even bigger adventure, continue to the Navajo Knobs Trail, a strenuous trek compared to Hickman Bridge, which extends beyond the Rim Overlook for a total of 4.7 miles (7.6 km), including return and climbs roughly 1,600 feet (488 m). The trail culminates atop a series of striking sandstone knobs, offering 360-degree views across nearly the entire park. Most hikers require 5h-7h to complete the round trip.
By combining Hickman Bridge with either Rim Overlook or Navajo Knobs, hikers can choose their own level of challenge: from a short family-friendly arch walk to a half-day adventure with some of the best vistas in the park.
Our Other Favorite Capitol Reef Trail: Grand Wash
If you’re drawn to the sheer drama of Capitol Reef’s canyons, the Grand Wash Trail is an unforgettable experience. This easy, mostly flat hike follows the path of an ancient riverbed into a towering Navajo sandstone gorge, where cliffs rise up to 500 feet and narrow to just a few yards across in places. The further you go, the more the canyon walls seem to close in, creating a slot-canyon feel without the technical challenges. With fascinating geology like honeycomb-weathered rock and streaks of desert varnish along the way, Grand Wash delivers big scenery for minimal effort, making it one of the park’s most rewarding short hikes.
For more information on this trail, be sure to check out our Grand Wash hiking guide.
Where to Stay Near Capitol Reef
While there’s no traditional lodging inside Capitol Reef National Park, visitors can camp within the park at the Fruita Campground or designated backcountry sites. For those seeking hotels, cabins, or inns, the best options lie just outside the park in small nearby towns, each offering its own charm and convenience. The closest is Torrey, located just 5 miles (8 km) west of the park’s visitor center, while Hanksville and Caineville provide good options for travellers heading east toward Moab or Lake Powell.
Torrey
Torrey is the main gateway to Capitol Reef and has the widest range of accommodations, from cozy inns to full-service resorts. It’s also where you’ll find the best selection of restaurants and shops.
Capitol Reef Resort – The area’s most upscale lodging, offering cabin, wagon, and teepee stays with stunning views of red cliffs and on-site amenities like a pool and restaurant.
Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse – Comfortable Western-style rooms and hearty dining just a few minutes from the park entrance.
SkyRidge Inn – A charming bed and breakfast known for its panoramic vistas and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples or quieter stays.
Days Inn by Wyndham Torrey Capitol Reef – A practical, budget-friendly option with simple rooms and easy highway access.
Hanksville
About 45 minutes east of Fruita, Hanksville is a small desert outpost well-positioned for exploring Capitol Reef’s eastern side or nearby Goblin Valley State Park.
Whispering Sands Motel – A clean, comfortable classic roadside motel with friendly service, ideal for travellers continuing toward Moab or Lake Powell.
Caineville
Halfway between Torrey and Hanksville, this tiny settlement sits in a dramatic desert setting, surrounded by badlands and open skies.
Cathedral Valley Inn – A peaceful and simple motel popular with photographers and off-road adventurers, offering quick access to the Cathedral Valley Loop and other remote park areas.
Hickman Bridge Trail – Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Hickman Bridge Trail?
The hike is about 1.8 miles (2.9 km) round trip, with roughly 400 feet (120 m) of elevation gain. Most people complete it in 1–1.5 hours.
Is Hickman Bridge Trail difficult?
The trail is rated as easy to moderate. While the path includes some short, steep sections and rocky footing, it’s manageable for families and beginner hikers.
Where is the Hickman Bridge Trailhead?
The trailhead is located off Highway 24, just east of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. Parking is limited, so it’s best to arrive early.
Can you go under the Hickman Bridge?
Yes! The trail passes directly beneath the natural arch, offering incredible views and photo opportunities from both below and the surrounding slickrock.
When is the best time to hike Hickman Bridge?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer afternoons can be hot, so plan to hike early in the morning or near sunset.
Explore More Utah National & State Park Guides
Continue exploring Utah with these detailed guides:
Bryce Canyon National Park Guide
Zion National Park Guide
Goblin Valley State Park Guide
Arches National Park Guide
Canyonlands National Park
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
Travel Insurance
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e-Sim cards
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Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Capitol Reef Hiking Guide for the Hickman Bridge Trail and that it will prove useful for planning your hiking trip.
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