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Cassidy Arch Trail

Torrey, Utah

4.4/5
based on 7 reviews

Details

Distance

3.08 miles

Elevation Gain

1283 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Nick Oman

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.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Romantic
Scenic
Wildlife

Cassidy Arch Trail Reviews

Slow and steady, this was a fun hike to an amazing view. I had my hiking sticks, so that helped. Parts of the hike were a bit hard to find, but if you keep on the lookout, for small kairns, they will lead you to the arch.

If you are in Capital Reef or even just passing through, stop and hike Cassidy Arch. Very easy to get to as you turn left into Grand Wash right off the Scenic Drive, and follow the road to the end. Following the cairns is very fun, and provide some unique photographs.

In general, Capitol Reef doesn't get a ton of visitors, so crowds are not as big of a problem here. IF you go early like we did, there will be little to no-one. It was awesome. The only other people that were there were repelling down through the arch to the road, pretty sick.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Grand Wash Trail, Capitol Reef National Park

Navajo Knobs

Hickman Natural Bridge Trail

Explore the Orchards and Gifford House of Capitol Reef

Drive the Scenic Drive in Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Gorge Trail