Cassidy Arch Canyon | Capitol Reef

Canyoneering Cassidy Arch Canyon - Capitol Reef Canyoneering Cassidy Arch Canyon

Capitol Reef

Overview

RATING: 3A

Wed

Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Northwest wind around 3 mph.

49 | 29

Thu

Sunny, with a high near 47.

47 | 29

Fri

Sunny, with a high near 47.

47 | 27

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 49.

49 | 27

Sun

Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.

48 | 30

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SEASON: Any. Traverse to second anchor can be difficult or impossible with snow on it or right after rain.
RAPPELS: 7 to 40 m ( 132 ft. )
WATER: None.
FLASHFLOOD: Low to Moderate. The drainage is very small, so it would need to be raining directly over the canyon to flood.

Wed

Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Northwest wind around 3 mph.

49 | 29

Thu

Sunny, with a high near 47.

47 | 29

Fri

Sunny, with a high near 47.

47 | 27

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 49.

49 | 27

Sun

Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.

48 | 30

View Full Weather Details
Bridge Ruins - Photo by Tom Jones

Bridge Ruins - Photo by Tom Jones

Important Note: The Scenic Drive, used to access this trailhead, will be closed from April 29, 2024 through fall of 2024. See the park page for details: https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenic-drive-rehabilitation-project.htm

Cassidy Canyon makes for an interesting, and casual, 1/2 day out if your in Capitol Reef. It has some unique features, including being one of few canyons that you rappel through one arch, and two natural bridges en route. The canyon holds unique scenery and is well suited for most canyoneers. Given the canyons steep nature, and small drainage, it does not hold much water. This makes it an excellent year around choice, although the approach can be hot in the summer. Don't attempt the canyon if snow is on the ground, getting to some of the anchors would be very difficult. Be sure to bring your camera.

Near the end of the canyon, you will encounter an old hanging bridge, and some carved steps. Before Capitol Reef National Park was created in 1971, locals had attempted to build a route that ascended the canyon up to Cassidy Arch from below. Although unsuccessful, it is impressive the two obstacles they overcame. What an adventurous route!

Second Rappel

Second Rappel

First Rappel

First Rappel

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