Trail Overview
Loop & Sand Wash is a scenic desert trail ideal for beginner to intermediate offroaders looking to experience stunning vistas of Capitol Reef National Park. Spanning approximately eight miles, this route begins off Notom-Bullfrog Road and loops around to Sandy Creek, taking drivers through a dramatic, canyon-like landscape reminiscent of a classic sci-fi film. High-clearance vehicles, stock four-wheel-drive rigs, and SxSs can easily handle the majority of the terrain, which carries a technical rating of 3. The path winds through a fun sand wash with a few tight turns and high-sided, narrow spots that require careful tire placement.
The trail fluctuates between a minimum elevation of 4,987 feet and a peak of 5,541 feet, accumulating around 818 feet of total elevation gain along its gentle grades. Driver sightlines are generally excellent throughout, though the narrowest portions of the wash demand extra attention. Several connector trails branch off the loop, providing convenient route variations and easy access back to the main road. Because the primary surface is sand, traction can vary significantly after rainfall, making dry seasons the ideal time to explore this remote Utah corridor.
