Hickman Bridge, Rim Overlook and Navajo Knobs Trailhead — Attraction in Four Corners States

Capital Reef is an dearly unappreciated national park, for being somewhat out of the way and altogether just skeptically unknown, please don't let that perception deter you. Hickman Bridge as well as the RIM Overlook are a fantastic representation of what this sector of Mother Nature has to offer to the spectacles. This hike remains one of my all time favorites, for it's riveting vistas and plentiful variety in landscape features. This is an medium-average skill based hike, meaning that there are some steep hills and somewhat shifty sandy rocks along the trail (inclusive to this, there is hardly any shade during this hike, which means intense exposure to the elements, ie sun throughout the entire hike), however, I preface that by expressing that this hike is extremely well maintained as well as freely accesible. To the point that the NDR has installed walkways, stairs, and has tons of landmarks to keep you positioned on the trail; it's again one of the best I've ever hiked, especially with this in context and loads of families hike Hickman Bridge together every year. Some tips though for this hike, be sure to bring plenty of water (ideally probably at least 32 ounces per person) tons of sunscreen and be generous with it, be ready for the weather (ie, hats, sunglasses, and maybe even a windbreaker or poncho if it rains), also plan for the hike taking anywhere between 1 hour to 2 hours in and out, and above all else be sure to remain within line of sight with children/family. This is a beautiful hike, straight up one that is well worth the trip and an experience you wouldn't want to go without. Be sure to follow the above recommendations though and especially be sure to bring water and sunscreen, you'll need it! Enjoy...

This trail, leading to a beautiful arch on one branch and fun and challenging hike with incredible views overlooking Fruita and the surrounding terrain on the other, was incredible. Aside from perhaps the "looping the fold" drive, this was surely the highlight of Capitol Reef NP for me (full disclosure: I didn't have a 4WD to do Cathedral Valley and I'm not a big pie guy)

The Hickman Bridge was a fantastic arch that would stack up favorably with the best of the best at Arches NP, except with crowds 1/10th the size. And the Rim Overlook Trail had some of the best hiking I did in all of Utah with views to match. I wish I had the time to continue all the way to Navajo Knobs but with sunset fast approaching I thought better of it.

The hike to Hickman Bridge was moderate difficulty, not too long and most of it relatively flat save for a steep elevation climb starting at the trailhead and ending about halfway to the bridge. The hike to Rim Overlook I would probably characterize as strenuous, and I'm sure the continuation to Navajo Knobs would be without a doubt strenuous. Both are doable for people with some hiking experience and decent fitness. Wear lots of sunscreen and bring lots of water, as there is little to no shade on the route and you will be exposed for the...

Fun little hike, went to the arch took some pictures then, came back. The parking lot was pretty full so keep that in mind. The first half or so is a tad tougher so for those who aren't in the best shape or have small children it might be a struggle. I carried an infant the whole way and it did get a bit strenuous but not very difficult. There's pretty good footing for nearly all of it, only a couple of potentially slick areas. There's lots of cool scenery along the way, holes in the rock, plant life, and one spot where it looked like the water eroded a cool looking cave hole thing.

The second half is generally an easier hike to the bridge, it's just getting up to the right elevation that was tougher.. Overall it was a moderate hike I think based on the guides and it reflected that. The trail was easy to follow. We went on a day that had some decent cloud cover so it wasn't as hot as it might normally be. Bring lots of water if you go during the day since it will likely...