Halls Creek Narrows
Capitol Reef's southern narrows, at the far end of the Waterpocket Fold: the park's own route from Halls Creek Overlook runs 22 miles round trip and it recommends three to four days for it. Graded 2B, so wading and possible swims, no rope.
The 18.4 mile Old Airstrip line is the shorter way in and still 6 to 10 hours of walking, which is why most parties treat this as a backpack instead of a day hike. Walking it needs no permit; camping does, and that free backcountry permit has to be collected in person at the Capitol Reef visitor center, so build the Fruita stop into the drive before you head south on the Notom Bullfrog Road. Assume Halls Creek is dry or unpleasant and carry the ability to filter. Check the forecast for the whole drainage above you, not just the sky overhead.
Logistics
| Manager | NPS Capitol Reef National Park |
|---|---|
| Permit | Capitol Reef requires a free day use permit for canyoneering, one per route, available in person at the visitor center or by email. Overnight trips additionally need a free backcountry permit from the same desk. This route is a non technical narrows walk, so whether it falls under the canyoneering permit or under the hiking rules is worth confirming with the visitor center. The permit is free either way, so ask rather than assume. |
| Distance | 18.4 mi |
| Time | 9 hr-10 hr |
| Technical | longest 0 ft |
| Season | Spring;Summer;Fall;Winter |
| Coordinates | 37.6831, -110.9097 |