Capitol Reef NP on the way from Moab to Las Vegas?
Mar 17th, 2012, 03:24 PM
#21
Lev,
I've been there a few times with a regular road car. If it has just rained any dirt road is an issue. Otherwise these are ok.
Devil's Garden is about 9 miles down Hole in the Rock Road. It's not a bad road so as long as you don't drive fast and kick up rocks you'll be fine.
The road to Willis Creek is sandy with a few small hills and some ruts in the road. You'll be the only person on the road so you can use both side to find smooth parts of the road. The ruts aren't deep enough to hit bottom and it's not a rocky road so you won't kick up rocks.
I've been there twice and we only passed one car. Each time we only saw one group of people there. Not the most crowded spot but a nice easy slot hike.
The slots are each about 100-150 yards long with a couple of hundreds yards of open walking between each. The slots get progrssively taller so go at least 5 slots before turning around.
At one point there's a small waterfall (about 6-8 feet high). At that point you either have to climb down (down going and I beleieve up coming back) or up and over. Hard to explain but nothing difficult.
The slots are about 6-7 feet wide with a little creek meandering in the middle. The first time I was there it had rained in one of the feeders. The creek was a couple of inches higher on the return than when we went out.
You can see my photos of these trips at:
www.travelwalks.com
The Utah 2008 and 2010 trips have some of the places mentioned.
Dayle mentioned the Lower Calf Creek falls hike is about 5 miles. I believe that's 5 miles out and back. It's about 2 1/2 miles each way. I was there in mid-May and again in early September. This hike isn't shaded and it was in the 90's.
On the mid-May trip we went to Bryce Canyon the next day and there were snow flurries and it was 37 degrees there.
I've been there a few times with a regular road car. If it has just rained any dirt road is an issue. Otherwise these are ok.
Devil's Garden is about 9 miles down Hole in the Rock Road. It's not a bad road so as long as you don't drive fast and kick up rocks you'll be fine.
The road to Willis Creek is sandy with a few small hills and some ruts in the road. You'll be the only person on the road so you can use both side to find smooth parts of the road. The ruts aren't deep enough to hit bottom and it's not a rocky road so you won't kick up rocks.
I've been there twice and we only passed one car. Each time we only saw one group of people there. Not the most crowded spot but a nice easy slot hike.
The slots are each about 100-150 yards long with a couple of hundreds yards of open walking between each. The slots get progrssively taller so go at least 5 slots before turning around.
At one point there's a small waterfall (about 6-8 feet high). At that point you either have to climb down (down going and I beleieve up coming back) or up and over. Hard to explain but nothing difficult.
The slots are about 6-7 feet wide with a little creek meandering in the middle. The first time I was there it had rained in one of the feeders. The creek was a couple of inches higher on the return than when we went out.
You can see my photos of these trips at:
www.travelwalks.com
The Utah 2008 and 2010 trips have some of the places mentioned.
Dayle mentioned the Lower Calf Creek falls hike is about 5 miles. I believe that's 5 miles out and back. It's about 2 1/2 miles each way. I was there in mid-May and again in early September. This hike isn't shaded and it was in the 90's.
On the mid-May trip we went to Bryce Canyon the next day and there were snow flurries and it was 37 degrees there.
Mar 17th, 2012, 04:21 PM
#22
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Myer,
Thank you for providing a link to your website. Great pictures!
I just checked Lower Calif Creek Falls website:
http://climb-utah.com/Escalante/calfcreek.htm
and it says trail is 3 miles one-way and will require approximately 1 1/2 hours to hike one-way. Maybe it is kind of misleading. We will see how it goes and made corrections depending on the weather condition and other factors. For now I need to make a reservation either in Torrey or Boulder for 1 night.
Thank you for providing a link to your website. Great pictures!
I just checked Lower Calif Creek Falls website:
http://climb-utah.com/Escalante/calfcreek.htm
and it says trail is 3 miles one-way and will require approximately 1 1/2 hours to hike one-way. Maybe it is kind of misleading. We will see how it goes and made corrections depending on the weather condition and other factors. For now I need to make a reservation either in Torrey or Boulder for 1 night.
Mar 17th, 2012, 04:33 PM
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Lev,
There's no way you can do all between Moab and Bryce in 1 day!!
It's a 2.5 hour drive from Moab to Capitol Reef with any stops. Add 2 hour min for a side trip to Goblin Valley.
When you reach Capitol Reef, you will be able to do the Hickman and Petroglyph, probably even the visitor's center and movie. The Golden Throne hike is up out of Capitol Gorge, with a rather steep start. After that it's relatively moderate. I forget how long in miles. I think it was about 3.5 or 4mi RT.
The Capitol Gorge hike is flat, but in the sand. Unless you have two cars to shuttle, it will have to be out-and-back. You definitely won't have time for both, especially on the day you drive from Moab.
If you stay overnight in Torrey, you can enjoy the scenery up and over Boulder Mtn, take a short detour over the paved section of the Burr Trail if you want, then head to Calf Creek Falls. The parking lot is small and it's very popular, but I don't think parking will be an issue in April.
You should also have time for the Devil's Garden in Escalante. Then you will have to see where your time is and whether or not to include Willis Creek. I can't speak on that personnaly yet!
The mountains are supposed to get a pretty good snowstorm tonight, with the heaviest snow in the central UT mountains - which means Boulder Mtn. Then it's supposed to warm up again to warmer than normal early spring temps.
We are having a weird winter! Pack accordingly.
There's no way you can do all between Moab and Bryce in 1 day!!
It's a 2.5 hour drive from Moab to Capitol Reef with any stops. Add 2 hour min for a side trip to Goblin Valley.
When you reach Capitol Reef, you will be able to do the Hickman and Petroglyph, probably even the visitor's center and movie. The Golden Throne hike is up out of Capitol Gorge, with a rather steep start. After that it's relatively moderate. I forget how long in miles. I think it was about 3.5 or 4mi RT.
The Capitol Gorge hike is flat, but in the sand. Unless you have two cars to shuttle, it will have to be out-and-back. You definitely won't have time for both, especially on the day you drive from Moab.
If you stay overnight in Torrey, you can enjoy the scenery up and over Boulder Mtn, take a short detour over the paved section of the Burr Trail if you want, then head to Calf Creek Falls. The parking lot is small and it's very popular, but I don't think parking will be an issue in April.
You should also have time for the Devil's Garden in Escalante. Then you will have to see where your time is and whether or not to include Willis Creek. I can't speak on that personnaly yet!
The mountains are supposed to get a pretty good snowstorm tonight, with the heaviest snow in the central UT mountains - which means Boulder Mtn. Then it's supposed to warm up again to warmer than normal early spring temps.
We are having a weird winter! Pack accordingly.
Mar 17th, 2012, 04:59 PM
#24
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I thought Devils Garden was a really cool spot and it isn't anything to drive. We were in just a regular car. As Myer states, rain could drastically alter the roads-otherwise you would be fine on this one.
Keep in mind that Myer has made several trips to Utah and I have too(i've been every year for the past 5 years). You can't do everything all at once. I would be more tempted to do as much as you can in one or two places rather than trying to do much all over the place.
To me, the hike to Calf Creek Falls is a half day minimum trek. And I would spend a day or even two at Capitol Reef. We spent a full day between Capitol Reef and Bryce last year, and didn't even begin to scratch the surface. We spent a very full day hiking Goblin Valley, Little Wildhorse, and Horseshoe Canyon, for example. Those are all right close to each other and are really top-notch hikes.
I never thought that I would go back to Utah when planning my first trip there. There is just a lot to see and do there. The more you look, the more it makes you want to go back and see some of the places that I missed.
Keep in mind that Myer has made several trips to Utah and I have too(i've been every year for the past 5 years). You can't do everything all at once. I would be more tempted to do as much as you can in one or two places rather than trying to do much all over the place.
To me, the hike to Calf Creek Falls is a half day minimum trek. And I would spend a day or even two at Capitol Reef. We spent a full day between Capitol Reef and Bryce last year, and didn't even begin to scratch the surface. We spent a very full day hiking Goblin Valley, Little Wildhorse, and Horseshoe Canyon, for example. Those are all right close to each other and are really top-notch hikes.
I never thought that I would go back to Utah when planning my first trip there. There is just a lot to see and do there. The more you look, the more it makes you want to go back and see some of the places that I missed.
Mar 17th, 2012, 05:54 PM
#26
What Dayle and spiro say is correct. There's a limit as to what you can do in a day. I'm very efficient. I don't rush but get a lot done in a day as I start early and go non-stop. I'm not one of those people who goes back to the room at 3PM to relax by the pool. I can do that at home.
Remember, getting to a sight and back is only part of it. Then there's the time you'll spend there.
When I took my daughter to Utah a year or two back we spent about two hours at Devil's Garden Escalente excluding driving. When I planned it I figured an hour tops. But it's such a neat place and we wandered around taking photos.
As spiro wrote, when I planned my first trip to Utah it was my "Southwest trip". Well, I've been back two more times since and could go back for more.
If I was planning for time (out, back and there) I would figure on at least 3-4 hours for Lower Calf Creek Falls from the parking lot. For Devil's Garden at least 2 1/2 hours from the Rt 12 junction and maybe an hour more if you're into photography. For Willis Creek (from the visitors center in Cannonville) about 3 hours.
As far as where to stay. I think Torrey may have a lot more choices (lodging and food) but I might lean toward Boulder as you'll be an hour closer to your sights for the next day.
This trip can double in length very easily.
Some of the places spiro mentions I've never been to. He's more adventurous than I am (read younger and braver).
Every time I figure I've seen something great someone here plants another idea. Yellowstone/Grand Tetons (2010), Yosemite (2011), Glacier (planned for 2012), etc, etc.
Remember, getting to a sight and back is only part of it. Then there's the time you'll spend there.
When I took my daughter to Utah a year or two back we spent about two hours at Devil's Garden Escalente excluding driving. When I planned it I figured an hour tops. But it's such a neat place and we wandered around taking photos.
As spiro wrote, when I planned my first trip to Utah it was my "Southwest trip". Well, I've been back two more times since and could go back for more.
If I was planning for time (out, back and there) I would figure on at least 3-4 hours for Lower Calf Creek Falls from the parking lot. For Devil's Garden at least 2 1/2 hours from the Rt 12 junction and maybe an hour more if you're into photography. For Willis Creek (from the visitors center in Cannonville) about 3 hours.
As far as where to stay. I think Torrey may have a lot more choices (lodging and food) but I might lean toward Boulder as you'll be an hour closer to your sights for the next day.
This trip can double in length very easily.
Some of the places spiro mentions I've never been to. He's more adventurous than I am (read younger and braver).
Every time I figure I've seen something great someone here plants another idea. Yellowstone/Grand Tetons (2010), Yosemite (2011), Glacier (planned for 2012), etc, etc.
Mar 18th, 2012, 03:30 PM
#27
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Here we go again.
Corrections applied.
Drive from Moab to Goblin Valley State Park. Hike there and drive to Little Wild Horse Canyon. Hike to the top and return the same way back. Drive to Capitol Reef NP. Hike Hickman Bridge trail and Petroglyphs Walk. Stop at the Visitor Center and if time permits rive down the Scenic Drive and hike a little bit in the area before driving to Torrey. Stay overnight in Torrey. If I take Hwy 12-Hwy 20 - Interstate 15 to Las Vegas it will take me 6-7 hours of non stop driving. Hardly any time for anything but stopping on the way to take pictures and a break for lunch. No time for any hikes. As you said, it is not possible to squeeze all Utah in one trip.
Corrections applied.
Drive from Moab to Goblin Valley State Park. Hike there and drive to Little Wild Horse Canyon. Hike to the top and return the same way back. Drive to Capitol Reef NP. Hike Hickman Bridge trail and Petroglyphs Walk. Stop at the Visitor Center and if time permits rive down the Scenic Drive and hike a little bit in the area before driving to Torrey. Stay overnight in Torrey. If I take Hwy 12-Hwy 20 - Interstate 15 to Las Vegas it will take me 6-7 hours of non stop driving. Hardly any time for anything but stopping on the way to take pictures and a break for lunch. No time for any hikes. As you said, it is not possible to squeeze all Utah in one trip.
Mar 18th, 2012, 04:50 PM
#28
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What do you mean "Hike to the Top".
Also just so you know. I have hiked Little Wildhorse twice.
The first time I got it confused with Wildhorse(which is also in the area). You want LITTLE Wildhorse. The trailhead parking lot is fairly easy to find. You can ask at Goblin Valley visitor center and they can give you good directions. Also, the entrance to the actual slot canyon isn't real clear. This is a fairly busy trail, so you can just ask someone where the entrance to the canyon is. Also, check out Climb-Utah.com and toddshikingguide.com for complete directions.
Also just so you know. I have hiked Little Wildhorse twice.
The first time I got it confused with Wildhorse(which is also in the area). You want LITTLE Wildhorse. The trailhead parking lot is fairly easy to find. You can ask at Goblin Valley visitor center and they can give you good directions. Also, the entrance to the actual slot canyon isn't real clear. This is a fairly busy trail, so you can just ask someone where the entrance to the canyon is. Also, check out Climb-Utah.com and toddshikingguide.com for complete directions.
Mar 20th, 2012, 01:58 PM
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Lots of information in there Lev, I think you have it right that there will be little time your second day to do much of anything but the drive back. But I think you could easily take some time for a short visit into Bryce. It doesn't take too long to take in the view at the main amphitheater, or hike down Navajo Loop. Love it in there.
Someone mentioned Capitol Gorge in Capitol Reef is a one way needing a car shuttle---but I think they were thinking Grand Wash trail, which goes between hwy 24 and the scenic drive. I think the scenic drive is one of the best views in the park even if you don't take any hikes.
And if the roads are wet you wouldn't be able to get through the wash (even with a 4x4) to the Little Wildhorse trailhead, but it is worth a try as it is a great little slot.
Someone mentioned Capitol Gorge in Capitol Reef is a one way needing a car shuttle---but I think they were thinking Grand Wash trail, which goes between hwy 24 and the scenic drive. I think the scenic drive is one of the best views in the park even if you don't take any hikes.
And if the roads are wet you wouldn't be able to get through the wash (even with a 4x4) to the Little Wildhorse trailhead, but it is worth a try as it is a great little slot.
Mar 20th, 2012, 06:58 PM
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InSandy,
thanks for the correction on the Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge hikes. I always forget which one is which!
Lev, do be cautious about driving on any dirt roads. Be certain to check with visitors/ranger stations/locals about recent and predicted weather. Most of the off pavement roads in southern UT cannot be driven (even in a 4x4) right after or during rain. The clay turns to pure grease!
thanks for the correction on the Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge hikes. I always forget which one is which!
Lev, do be cautious about driving on any dirt roads. Be certain to check with visitors/ranger stations/locals about recent and predicted weather. Most of the off pavement roads in southern UT cannot be driven (even in a 4x4) right after or during rain. The clay turns to pure grease!
Mar 22nd, 2012, 03:23 PM
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Slackers is just a typical Burger Joint. Good Shakes Too.
Pick up some supplies at Austin's Chuckwagon(store and deli) and have a picnic at the park. The pie is really good at Gifford House right next to the picnic area in the park. The 2 times that I have been there, I shared the picnic area with about 50 deer(I think they area pretty much always there). The two giant trees there are pretty cool too. The Gifford House does sell some good Salsa and Chips(those aren't homemade like the pie and ice cream).
Pick up some supplies at Austin's Chuckwagon(store and deli) and have a picnic at the park. The pie is really good at Gifford House right next to the picnic area in the park. The 2 times that I have been there, I shared the picnic area with about 50 deer(I think they area pretty much always there). The two giant trees there are pretty cool too. The Gifford House does sell some good Salsa and Chips(those aren't homemade like the pie and ice cream).
Mar 22nd, 2012, 06:57 PM
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Note: when I was in Torrey at the end of Oct, all the restairants were closing up for the winter. Slackers Austin's Rim Rock Cafe Diablo. You might want to call ahead for reopening dates. Think about going prepared with cooler snakes etc. You'll have a great time!
Mar 31st, 2012, 04:53 PM
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I'm not the OP but just returned from a similar trip. We spent a short day and night in Capitol Reef, but it was worth a stop. I'm glad Dayle reminded me to be prepared with a cooler. We were hungry by the time we arrived at Capitol Reef so it was nice to pull over at the picnic area and enjoy our sandwiches, chips, cookies and drinks. It would have been a pain to drive through the park to Torrey, eat and return.
While I was researching this trip, I noticed spirobulldog recommend pies at the Gifford House several times. I told my husband we had to stop even though I was skeptical there would be any pie available this time of the year. Fortunately, for us (and spirobulldog
) there were several flavors available. We split a small mixed berry pie. YUM! It was delicious. I also purchased a jar of apricot preserves which were also perfect. I'm now kicking myself for not buying a case.
We did a quick drive through the campground and the apricot trees were in bloom. The smell was divine. I would love to come back and camp here sometime.
We then did the Hickman Bridge hike, before heading back into Torrey. Our teens had burgers at Slackers that night and said they were very good. Several restaurants were still closed but in addition to Slackers, the Capitol Reef Inn Cafe and Austin's Chuckwagon were open.
In the morning my husband and I grabbed a cinnamon roll and a decent cappuccino from Castle Rock Coffee in Torrey and we all headed toward Zion on Hwy 12. I loved this drive. Besides the incredible scenery, I really liked the isolated feel away from the madness of the interstate. We hiked to Calf Creek Falls which I would recommend, before continuing on our way. There is so much to see that it is impossible to do it all. If you are still checking this Lev I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
While I was researching this trip, I noticed spirobulldog recommend pies at the Gifford House several times. I told my husband we had to stop even though I was skeptical there would be any pie available this time of the year. Fortunately, for us (and spirobulldog
) there were several flavors available. We split a small mixed berry pie. YUM! It was delicious. I also purchased a jar of apricot preserves which were also perfect. I'm now kicking myself for not buying a case.We did a quick drive through the campground and the apricot trees were in bloom. The smell was divine. I would love to come back and camp here sometime.
We then did the Hickman Bridge hike, before heading back into Torrey. Our teens had burgers at Slackers that night and said they were very good. Several restaurants were still closed but in addition to Slackers, the Capitol Reef Inn Cafe and Austin's Chuckwagon were open.
In the morning my husband and I grabbed a cinnamon roll and a decent cappuccino from Castle Rock Coffee in Torrey and we all headed toward Zion on Hwy 12. I loved this drive. Besides the incredible scenery, I really liked the isolated feel away from the madness of the interstate. We hiked to Calf Creek Falls which I would recommend, before continuing on our way. There is so much to see that it is impossible to do it all. If you are still checking this Lev I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
