If you’re looking to hike in the winter, then you can’t go wrong choosing some of the trails in Capitol Reef National Park. There is no bad time of the year to visit this national park, as each season has its own beauty.
The park is relatively empty during this time, so it gives visitors a unique window to experience its natural beauty without the rush of a crowd. The weather doesn’t get too cold or too snowy, and numerous trails are still accessible.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the best trails to experience the Capitol Reef winter.
The Frying Pan Trail
The Frying Pan Trail is an 8-mile hike that forms a part of the Waterpocket Fold. The Waterpocket Fold is the most interesting part of Capitol Reef during the winter months. It is a 100-mile-long geographical formation that looks a wrinkle on the Earth.
Keen hikers can spot fossils, ancient pictographs, and even pioneer inscriptions as they walk through the area. The Frying Pan Trail offers a medium-difficulty hiking route so you can explore this region. It offers a panoramic view of the entire Waterpocket Fold.
The Hickman Bridge Trail
Another popular trail on the Waterpocket Fold is the Hickman Bridge Trail. This is a relatively short hike that covers just 0.9 miles (or a round trip of 1.8 miles). The trail leads to the Hickman Bridge, which is a 133-foot-long arch. The Hickman Bridge offers a great background for Insta-worthy pictures as it rises 125 feet above the ground.
Hikers on this trail can also see the Fremont River valley and the Capitol Dome. Overall, hikers consider this trail to be relatively easy, which means it’s an accessible way for beginners to experience the Waterpocket Fold.
Fremont River Trail
The Fremont River Trail starts just behind the iconic Gifford House (which you must visit in case when you’re in Capitol Reef). The trail follows the Fremont River for a couple of miles and is quite easy to walk through.
The path progressively gets harder and turns into a proper hike as you enter a canyon. The trail ends at an overlook which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the national park. There is a steep incline in the middle of the trail, which can have some snow accumulation as well during winter months.
Golden Throne
The Golden Throne is an offbeat trail which can be fun because of the scenery and the fact that it ends at a “golden throne”. The golden throne is a rock formation that looks like a throne and can be a great place to snap a few pictures and make memories.
The trail consists of a few steep inclines, and parts of the trail can be covered in a couple of inches of snow. However, it doesn’t get too snowy and remains completely accessible even during the winter months.
Cassidy Arch
The Cassidy Arch is probably the most well-known and popular trail in Capitol Reef. The Cassidy Arch is named after Butch Cassidy who is rumored to have hidden in this part of the country while he was an outlaw. The Cassidy Arch is a natural bridge formation that can be seen on numerous paraphernalia depicting the Capitol Reef National Park.
This trail offers moderate difficulty with an elevation of up to 400 feet. The best part of this trail is that you can actually climb the arch and find yourself in the middle of a grand bridge overlooking the national park.
Where to Stay?
If you’re planning winter hiking in Torrey, Utah, then consider staying at Cougar Ridge. Our luxury resort is located just 10 minutes away from Capitol Reef National Park. Our strategically located resort offers a range of on-site amenities such as BBQs, rodeos, spa treatments, and lots more.
Guests can also choose from a variety of accommodation options ranging from The Grand Lodge to luxury villas. Cougar Ridge lodging is suitable for both couples and families and provides a hospitable environment for you and your loved ones.
Wrapping Up
Overall, there are several trails to choose from if you’re winter hiking in Torrey. There are a few things that hikers should keep in mind before heading to Capitol Reef during the winter. Remain aware of local weather conditions and check the route before you travel.
A few roads may be closed or impassable due to snow in the area. Remember to dress in layers and carry plenty of extra clothes, food, water, and emergency supplies. As any hiker knows, the shoes you wear can make all the difference while hiking. It’s best to wear boots that have been specifically designed for hiking in rough terrain.
Lastly, it’s important to read and follow the rules of the national park and not leave any trace of your presence.