Must-See List as told by Morgan: Arches, Canyonlands, & Capitol Reef

Arches**:

☀ Delicate Arch Hike - 3.2 miles & 629’ elevation gain

While this is a well known & often cliché sight that Arches is well known for, it is something that cannot be missed. Be prepared for long lines if you want a picture under it. The best viewing time is sunrise.

☀ Park Ave Hike @ sunrise - 1.8 miles & 298’ elevation gain

This gorgeous and easy trail is the first stop from the entrance to the park. A sunrise hike is a must do as there are very few people in the park and watching the buttes turn from red to orange in the morning sun is a must-see event.

☀ Double Arch - 0.6 miles & 95’ elevation gain

Double Arch is another must-see feature in Arches. It is visible from the parking lot and is a great spot if you’re looking for a short walk with an incredible payoff. It’s visible from the parking lot, but if you’re like dad & myself, go climb up and get your picture in one of the windows!

☀ Fiery Furnace* - 2.1 miles & 492’ elevation gain

This permit required hike can be accessed via a self guided or ranger led tour. Keep in mind it is advised to not do this on your own if you have no slot canyon hiking experience. While we didn’t get to do this hike on our adventure last October, I will definitely be going back to check this one off!

Canyonlands - Island in the Sky:

☀ Mesa Arch Hike - 0.7 miles & 88’ elevation gain

This hike was easy, flat, and spectacular. It ended in a beautiful arch that opened up to the vast canyon beyond it. Very picturesque and an easy hike. Be aware that walking on top of the arch is highly discouraged.

☀ White Rim Overlook/Hike - 1.8 miles & 160’ elevation gain

This can either be an overlook to enjoy the views or be turned into a hike to walk around the top rim of the canyon. This is a fairly easy and flat hike that loops around the top part of the canyon providing sweeping views along the way.

☀ White Rim Road Day Use*

This is a beautiful drive along the road at the bottom of the canyon. It requires a day use permit & high clearance vehicle. Keep in mind if you want to access the full 100 mile road it will take 2-3 days to drive the entire way. Plan accordingly!

Capitol Reef:

☀ Hickman Bridge Hike - 1.7 miles & 416’ elevation gain

This gorgeous hike is at the main entrance to Capitol Reef and a must do - a fairly easy hike that has a massive payoff. The trail winds through sweeping, everchanging landscape and ends at a 133’ natural bridge comprised of tan and black rock. Check this out in this often overlooked park.

☀ Cassidy Arch Hike - 3.1 miles & 667’ elevation gain

This is the most well known hike in the park. While we didn’t get to partake in this hike due to high winds & dust, it is a must-see when we get back to Capitol Reef!

☀ Temples of the Sun & Moon

This gorgeous monolith is only accessible via a dirt road & high clearance vehicle. It was not accessible during our stent at the park, but all the rangers agree it is a must-see when & if you have the chance.

*Permit required

**Time-entry permit required April 1 - October 31 from 7 am - 4 pm

All trail milage & elevation information access from AllTrails!

Thanks for checking out 3 of Utah’s Mighty Five must-see list. Let me know what you think & what you want to see next!

See ya on the trail!

-M