Cassidy Arch

Located only a couple of miles from Fruita and most of the civilized areas of Capitol Reef National Park, Cassidy Arch is one of the many impressive landforms in what is arguably Utah's least popular national park. While Arches National Park has a much more famous collection of natural arches, Cassidy Arch would actually be the tallest arch were it in Arches, as well as one of the widest; in addition, hikers can stand atop Cassidy Arch, which offers an incredible of a view of the area. In spite of this, the crowds at Cassidy Arch are minimal to non-existent! Cassidy Arch can be reached via the Grand Wash Trailhead, which is separated from the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive by a little more than a mile of fairly rough dirt road set in a steep canyon. Cassidy Arch can actually be seen from part of the road - it will be behind you when you drive toward the trailhead high up the canyon about halfway in. From the trailhead, walk down the wash to the north (the direction opposite the road) for 0.2 miles and look for the Cassidy Arch Trail to the left. From here the trail will steadily ascend to the canyon rim several hundred feet above the wash and the road. Cassidy Arch will eventually be visible in the distance after about a mile of hiking. Most of the hike is on a well-maintained dirt trail except for the final segment, which requires hikers to follow cairns along slickrock to the arch. After enjoying the views from the arch, most hikers will hike back the way they came, although there are other trail connections off the Cassidy Arch Trail for thru hikers. In addition, it is permitted to rappel off the top of Cassidy Arch for those interested.