Just a few days among Capitol Reef National Park’s intricate canyons and scenic viewpoints can feel like much longer. High walls, vibrant colors and forgotten coves just a mile off the main road will convince you that civilization has been left far behind. Even a short hike in the Reef can capture that feeling; one of these classic shorties is Cohab Canyon.
There are two trailheads for Cohab: the first is near the Fruita campground site in the historic area of the park, the other option is just a short walk across Highway 24 from the Hickman Bridge trailhead. Cohab can be done as an out and back or a through hike if you have a shuttle car (or a functioning thumb for hitching a ride). Either option will allow for a short, pleasant stroll through a desert wash with many interesting points along the way.
Beginning from the Hickman Bridge trailhead area, the path begins as many in Captiol Reef do: with a steep uphill climb. Just as you are cursing the ascent, the trail splits with an option to take the Frying Pan Trail to Cassidy Arch. Again, a shuttle car is needed to avoid adding extra miles of road walking (why walk a road when there is so much to see in the backcountry?). Forget the Frying Pan trail for now and stick to Cohab Canyon.
As the trail evens out, the scenery starts to pop. The volcanic boulders of the Reef are abundant here, clustered along the slickrock portions of the trail, begging to be photographed. Scrubby pines and grasses join desert blooms of all types in proving that there is indeed much color and life in this harsh land. Signs of water and wind erosion can be seen everywhere; Moki Steps on the canyon walls number in the thousands, and hidden pools of water remain behind long after a storm has passed.
Several short side canyons provide added interest along the trail. One can discover a plunge pool preserved in the shadows of a rock overhang, or squeeze through a narrow slot to discover a hidden room lined by sand. The cool confines of these side canyons provide relief from the relentless desert sun. The only limit to what can be explored are your canyon-seeking skills and footwork. Most hikers will have no problem discovering the obvious extras, but a little keen searching can provide plenty of hidden splendor. Continue up the canyon and it eventually ends in a fine overlook of the Fruita historic area.
As an out and back, Cohab is just under 4 miles long. Add an extra mile if you plan to explore the side canyons. What it lacks in length it will more than make up for in “wow factor.” It’s an ideal shortie for those seeking a rest day hike, or perhaps an after dinner stroll… just plan for big sights from this little canyon.