Hickman Bridge & Rim Overlook (Capitol Reef NP) - 9/28/23

Hickman Bridge

On the fourth day of our Capitol Reef NP hiking tour, we did Hickman Bridge and the Rim Overlook Trail that connects to the bridge trail. Note: The Hickman Bridge Trailhead parking fills up very fast in the morning - maybe since it is located right on SR 24 east of the Visitor's Center. We had three cars and snagged the last three parking spots! Ten of us hiked up to the bridge on a steady easy climb. The bridge is massive. It is difficult to get a good photo unless you use panorama or a wide angle lens since the trail doesn't offer a distant view of the bridge that includes the sky.

Nevertheless, we got some photos, hiked under the bridge and continued on a loop trail around to the left. This is a short loop that brings you back to the original trail at a junction just before you climb up to the bridge area. We continued back down the trail until we reached the Rim Overlook Trail junction. Here, two hikers left and eight of us continued up the Rim Overlook Trail. 

The hike up to the overlook seemed long. The trail utilized natural sandstone ramps up the side of the landscape. Between the ramps, the trail cornered out on different overlooks and traversed to the next ramp. It is beautiful landscape but the slope is relentless. On the way up, there is an overlook for Hickman Bridge. You still cannot get the sky in a photo but you can get the shadow of the bridge laid out on the ground beneath. 

Our group separated as everyone had different amounts of energy for the 1000' sloped climb. Finally, all eight of us reached the overlook that was adorned with a sign. The sign let us know that we were at the Rim Overlook! There was only one small tree near the trail that provided a bit of shade and we all tried to find a seat under it! We saw one of the Navajo Knobs around the corner. After a break and photos, we started down. The pace was moderate at first but it sped up as we descended. It was a very strong group. Down, down, down for two miles! Finally, I couldn't keep the pace when we hit a small hill near the end! Oh, well. I tried. 

Anyway, all in all, it was a nice hike with beautiful sandstone landscape. The bridge is exceptional and the overlook is as well. Just didn't like the relentless slope climb. The remaining part of the day was spent at a pizza place in Torrey! We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Capitol Reef National Park this week. It doesn't get a lot of attention but it should. It is a beautiful place on this earth!

Stats: Total: 5.8 miles; 1450' gain; 4.25 hours

          Bridge O&B: 2 miles; ~350' gain

          Rim Overlook O&B: 4.75 miles; 1000' gain