A stunning ridgeline trail that takes you to the heart of Capitol Reef National Park and ends with a jaw-dropping 360 view of the surrounding canyons.
The Navajo Knobs trail is a 9.1 mile out-and-back hike in Capitol Reef National Park near Moab, Utah. Due to the distance and moderate scrambling at the end, this hike is considered moderate. Since it is within the boundaries of Capitol Reef National Park, dogs are not allowed on this hike. It took us 4 hours with only a couple quick stops to take pictures from the top and to snack along the way.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Navajo Knobs trailhead, search for the Hickman Bridge Trailhead Parking Lot in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Moab head north on Highway 191 and then take the 70 West. Take the 24 South for 43 miles until you’re forced to turn. Go right for another 35 miles until you reach the trailhead.
Driving Info: This is an easy paved drive the entire way.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in early February and started hiking around 9am. The weather was windy and cold at 45 degrees, with snow scattered around the trails and in the shadows. The wind was moderate to strong throughout the hike and can be extra chilly during winter as you sweat and ascend. There was snow and ice at places that required some careful footing.
Gear: We wore 2-3 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, gloves, hat & sunglasses. There is a lot of exposure and little shade so wear sunscreen.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. There is no water source along the trail. We at a few snacks along the way.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts at the Hickman Bridge Trailhead Parking Lot which sits atop the beautiful Fremont River. The Hickman Bridge is a popular shorter hike starting at the same trailhead so the parking, although large enough to accomodate a dozen cars, fills up during busier months. There is a bathroom in the parking lot.
Pictures of the Navajo Knobs hike:
Moderate incline in the beginning as you pass dark heavy boulders.
Views to your left as you hike the ridge above the canyons.
Hickman Bridge, where most hikers on this trail will stop.
Look to your right along the trail as the canyons slice into the mountains.
Arrive to the 2nd main attraction along this trail, Rim Overlook.
Look down upon Highway 24 that cuts into the heart of Capitol Reef National Park.
Winding in and out of the canyons provides amazing views looking out to your left as you round the corners.
In the distance you can barely see the end of the hike.
As you approach another rim overlook spot, you can look down upon Castle Rock.
Beautiful rocky trail taking you inwards.
Another view to your left as you round another corner before the final main ascent.
Similar view as before but much closer!
Round the top and you finally get a solid view of your endpoint.
From the endpoint of the trail at the Navajo Knobs, looking back down the trail you ascended. This looks like a slanted photo but it’s really the way the mountains sit.
The 360 views are nearly unbeatable, but be careful of windy or wet conditions that can make this point tricky.
Going to be in the Moab area? There's a ton of hiking, off-roading and outdoor activities. Take a look at Moab's Best Hiking & Off-Roading Trips for epic adventures and spectacular hikes within a few hours of Moab.
