Pros & cons
PROS
- Quieter slot experience than many well-known Southwest canyons
- Dramatic dryfall turnaround without committing to ropes
CONS
- Unmarked route with frequent chokestones and problem-solving
- Seasonal pools can force cold, muddy wading
Roadside pullout on Notom–Bullfrog Road, 9.1 miles south of Highway 24 at the Cottonwood Wash crossing.
Flash-flood prone slot; do not enter if rain is forecast. Expect boulder obstacles and a ~40 ft dryfall where most turn around. Route is largely unmarked—carry map/GPS—remote setting, travel with a partner, and bring plenty of water.
Overview
Cottonwood Wash is a classic Capitol Reef slot canyon hike: raw, remote, and more adventure than “trail.” It’s an out-and-back up the wash that tightens into sculpted narrows, with boulder chokes and short dryfalls that make you earn every bend. Plan for about 6 miles round-trip (total), turning around where the canyon’s major dryfall shuts down casual travel.
Route and Terrain
Start from Notom–Bullfrog Road, about 9.1 miles south of Highway 24 (around 38.1659° N, 111.0894° W). The first mile is a broad, sandy wash before the walls squeeze into twisting narrows. Expect hands-on moves to get over and around chokestones, occasional route-finding detours, and seasonal pools that can mean wading. Most parties turn around at a prominent dryfall (about 40 feet)—continuing beyond it shifts into a canyoneering endeavor.
Difficulty and Who It’s For
This is non-technical for hikers who stop at the dryfall, but it’s more demanding than a typical trail: moderate-to-strenuous thanks to sand slogging, scrambles, and problem-solving around obstacles. It suits hikers who want solitude and a wild slot experience, are comfortable with unmarked terrain, and don’t mind getting a little wet. If you’re looking for something similar with a different flavor, neighboring Burro Wash or Sheets Gulch offer comparable backcountry slot adventures.
Best Time to Hike
Spring and fall are prime. Summer heat can be brutal, and flash-flood risk is highest July–September. Never enter slots with storms in the forecast—clear skies above you don’t guarantee safety if it’s raining upstream.
Safety, Access, and Etiquette
This is a remote backcountry hike. Don’t go solo. Carry ample water (there are no reliable sources), wear sturdy footwear that can handle sand and water, and pack layers. The route is largely unmarked—bring a map and know how to use it. Pets aren’t allowed on backcountry trails here. Day hikers don’t need a permit, but continuing beyond the dryfall as a technical canyoneering route requires proper skills and compliance with park rules.
What You’ll Notice
The canyon cuts through the Waterpocket Fold, revealing colorful sedimentary layers and classic Navajo sandstone narrows. In the open sections you’ll snag big views; inside the slots, look for flowing curves, chokestones, and sculpted pour-offs that tell the story of relentless flash floods shaping the rock.
Elevation
6 mi · 4 hrWhere it starts
38.1654, -111.0897Near Cottonwood Wash Trail
All places →All trails →
1.2 mi awayBurro WashQuiet, sculpted narrows with wading and hands-on scramblingChallenging · 8 mi · 6 hr
3.5 mi awaySheets Gulch TrailQuiet slot canyon with mellow narrows and few obstacles.Moderate · 9 mi · 6 hr
5 mi awayPioneer RegisterHistoric name wall on an easy walk in Capitol Gorge
5.1 mi awayPleasant Creek TrailCreekside canyon stroll to petroglyphs and Waterpocket Fold viewsModerate · 7.4 mi · 4 hr
5.3 mi awayCapitol GorgeHistoric canyon walk past petroglyphs, Pioneer Register, and TanksTrailhead · Restroom
5.3 mi awayCapitol Gorge TrailEasy canyon walk with rock art, the Pioneer Register, and waterpockets.Easy · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
6.3 mi awayGolden ThroneGolden sandstone dome via a moderate, view-packed hikeTrailhead · Parking
8.2 mi awaySlickrock DivideQuick pullout with a rare hydrologic divide and ripple rockPullout · Parking
