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Hickman Bridge
Hiking Trail
Hard
1.75 mi
436 ft
Capitol Reef's most popular hike leads to a massive natural arch soaring 125 feet high!
Hickman Bridge reigns as one of the most famous and most popular hikes in Capitol Reef National Park. While Capitol Reef has gained renown for its technical slot canyon itineraries, Hickman Bridge remains popular thanks to its easy access and moderate hiking. Best of all, the trail leads to a stunning natural arch at the end!
"The trail is not particularly long or steep, but it provides access to some amazing sites, including the large arch itself, as well as a smaller arch, and a Fremont pit house ruin and nearby granary," [writes ]( Add in the ease of access to the trailhead just two miles from the Capitol Reef Visitor Center, and Hickman Bridge is a true draw. Thankfully, Capitol Reef remains well off the beaten path, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of this natural feature without too many crowds.
The hike to the arch measures about one mile one-way and gains about 436 vertical feet. Much of this elevation gain happens via a series of steep switchbacks in the first few tenths of a mile, and then it levels off a bit after that. Expect to traverse a mixture of rocks and sand on your way to the arch, including some rock slabs when you approach the arch.
The arch itself is an impressive 130-foot span and soars 125 feet high. Take some time to enjoy this incredible natural formation, and observe the beautiful scenery all around you!
Sources:
[](
[]( Written by Greg Heil
Hickman Bridge reigns as one of the most famous and most popular hikes in Capitol Reef National Park. While Capitol Reef has gained renown for its technical slot canyon itineraries, Hickman Bridge remains popular thanks to its easy access and moderate hiking. Best of all, the trail leads to a stunning natural arch at the end!
"The trail is not particularly long or steep, but it provides access to some amazing sites, including the large arch itself, as well as a smaller arch, and a Fremont pit house ruin and nearby granary," [writes ]( Add in the ease of access to the trailhead just two miles from the Capitol Reef Visitor Center, and Hickman Bridge is a true draw. Thankfully, Capitol Reef remains well off the beaten path, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of this natural feature without too many crowds.
The hike to the arch measures about one mile one-way and gains about 436 vertical feet. Much of this elevation gain happens via a series of steep switchbacks in the first few tenths of a mile, and then it levels off a bit after that. Expect to traverse a mixture of rocks and sand on your way to the arch, including some rock slabs when you approach the arch.
The arch itself is an impressive 130-foot span and soars 125 feet high. Take some time to enjoy this incredible natural formation, and observe the beautiful scenery all around you!
Sources:
[](
[]( Written by Greg Heil
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to Hickman Bridge | 0.86 mi | 348 ft | 6.7% |
| Utah 24 Climb | 0.35 mi | 256 ft | 13.5% |
| Utah 24 Climb | 0.38 mi | 210 ft | 10.2% |
| Down from Hickman Bridge | 0.85 mi | -364 ft | -7.0% |
| Hickman bridge final decent | 0.27 mi | -112 ft | -7.5% |