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About this place
This hike offers a stunning payoff, standing on top of a spectacular arch. You'll also have opportunities to explore beautiful overlooks of Capitol Reef N.P. and to photograph beautiful dark night skies.
Follow the scenic road just past the Fruita Campground to the first dirt road on the left. The dirt road meanders through cool rock formations (great for night photography) and eventually dramatic cliffs that you will be climbing up. The parking area is obvious and there are primitive restrooms. Follow the well-marked trail into the canyon until you reach the Cassidy trailhead on your left.
Once on the trail follow the maintained rock steps and cairns leading you up fairly quickly in a short amount of time. This is the part that takes a little exertion, but once on top, it levels out. Follow the trail cairns and take note, there is a trail backpackers and overnighters take back to the Fruita Campground. As long as you stay left and are able to see the dirt road you drove in on, you will be fine.
Near the arch, there is a little bit of scrambling, but nothing too difficult. Take it all in from up top and enjoy. It's not everyday you get to walk on top of an arch.
Leave No Trace
