April 23-26, 2026
It was a two hour drive from Bryce Valley to Torrey, Utah. It was all via Utah’s Scenic Byway 12. Google’s AI over view says “Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is a 124-mile “All-American Road” connecting Panguitch and Torrey, traversing dramatic canyons, plateaus, and forests.”
It truly was a scenic drive. With a check-in time of noon I arrived at Wonderland RV Park with time to get to the Park and get a quick overview.
The park boundary was about 3 miles from Wonderland RV Park and the Visitor Center about a further 6 miles. I mad my way to the visitor center and talked to a ranger about the different trails. Got all the information I needed and drove back stopping a couple view points.
And I treated myself to a very nice dinner at “Hunt and Gather” of High Mountain Trout and Sweet Potato Bourbon Pecan Pie. By far my best meal of this trip.
The Grand Wash
Started the next day early at the Grand Wash. This was a relatively easy hike down the wash to the “Narrows”.
Entering the “Narrows”.
After the Grand Wash I decided to hike to Cassidy Arch – a somewhat strenuous hike.
Was able to see the arch as I was walking the trail. You can see the people on top.
At the arch.
Part of the trail.
Petroglyph Panel
From there I drove to the Petroglyph Panel.
These petroglyphs were right on the side of the road, very easy access.
Goosenecks
Quick stop on the drive back to camp.
And across from the Goosenecks – the Castle.
And the Chimney Rock.
Hickman Bridge
I started my third and final day at Capital Reef hiking to the Hickman Bridge.
Along the trail to the bridge there were some nice Cacti in bloom.
As well as this survey mark from the 1947.
The Hickman Bridge. While there I was chatting with a guy that had hiked the Grand Gorge and found an arrowhead. He showed me a picture of it and it was kind of impressive. He also said there were more petroglyphs along the trail. I decided that would be my afternoon hike.
And then to the Hickman Bridge overlook.
Back at the Hickman Bridge trail head a sign points out the Capitol Dome.
The Schoolhouse
Just on the side of the road heading back towards the visitor center was the Fruita Schoolhouse. This little building was the schoolhouse from 1900 to 1941. At one time there were 22 students in first through eight grade together in the room with one teacher.
The Grand Gorge
The Grand Gorge take you to the Petroglyphs and then on to the Tanks. I did not do the Pioneer Register trail.
Ancient Petroglyphs along the way.
As well as many modern ones.
And then on to the tanks.
I ended the day with another great dinner (elk) at Hunt and Gather.
The next day I moved on.