Cottonwood Wash Trail

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.