Navajo Knobs Trail
A strenuous 9.1-mile hike in Capitol Reef National Park, rewarding hikers with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from its summit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Navajo Knobs Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A strenuous 9.1-mile hike in Capitol Reef National Park, rewarding hikers with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from its summit.
"The very end is the best part! (and is the only part with cell service)"
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
This is a long hike; carry more water than you think you'll need. Hydration is key!
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Trail can be unclear. Offline maps are essential as cell service is minimal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Navajo Knobs Summit
End of the trail
Experience breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Capitol Reef National Park. The ultimate reward!
Varied Desert Scenery
Along the trail
Hike through diverse desert landscapes, from canyons to open vistas, showcasing Capitol Reef's unique geology.
Challenging Elevation Gain
Throughout the trail
A rewarding climb with significant elevation gain, offering a great workout and incredible payoff views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Long Haul
Embrace the Views, Respect the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
This is a long hike; carry more water than you think you'll need. Hydration is key!
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Trail can be unclear. Offline maps are essential as cell service is minimal.
Start Early or Late ☀️
Avoid midday heat. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temps and better light.
Be Prepared for Elevation ⛰️
The trail has significant elevation gain. Wear sturdy shoes and pace yourself.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
This is a long hike; carry more water than you think you'll need. Hydration is key!
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Trail can be unclear. Offline maps are essential as cell service is minimal.
Start Early or Late ☀️
Avoid midday heat. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temps and better light.
Be Prepared for Elevation ⛰️
The trail has significant elevation gain. Wear sturdy shoes and pace yourself.
Check Weather for Floods ⛈️
Flash floods are a real danger. Monitor forecasts closely before and during your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Navajo Knobs Trail is lauded for its spectacular, expansive summit views and challenging, rewarding hike. While strenuous, the panoramic vistas of Capitol Reef are considered a highlight. Some hikers note the trail can be unclear in sections and emphasize the need for ample water and preparedness for the long trek.
"You’ll spend most of the day on this hike. There are some cliff spots and the whole hike is full of good views. The very end is the best part! (and is the only part with cell service)"
Miles Frank
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Navajo Knobs Trailhead is located within Capitol Reef National Park. Access is typically via the park's scenic drive. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Yes, the trailhead is accessible by car via the park's main scenic drive. However, be aware of potential road closures due to weather, especially flash floods.
Capitol Reef National Park is accessible by car. The nearest major airports are in Salt Lake City (SLC) and Grand Junction (GJT), both several hours away.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services to the Navajo Knobs Trailhead within Capitol Reef National Park. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles.
Hiking Navajo Knobs Trail in winter is possible but can be challenging due to snow and ice. Conditions can change rapidly, so check park advisories.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a permit is not required to hike the Navajo Knobs Trail. However, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Capitol Reef National Park.
Entrance fees for Capitol Reef National Park are typically per vehicle. Check the official NPS website for the most current pricing and pass options.
Capitol Reef National Park is generally open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers have specific operating hours, and some roads may close due to weather.
While the park is open 24 hours, hiking Navajo Knobs Trail at night is not recommended due to the challenging terrain, lack of clear markings, and potential hazards.
Capitol Reef National Park honors various federal passes, such as the America the Beautiful Pass. Check the NPS website for eligibility and details.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Navajo Knobs Trail is a strenuous 9.1-mile out-and-back hike, typically taking 4-7 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
The Navajo Knobs Trail is considered strenuous due to its length and significant elevation gain of approximately 1,800 feet.
The trail can be unclear in sections, so it's important to pay attention to cairns and download an offline map.
Expect stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Capitol Reef National Park from the summit, showcasing canyons, rock formations, and the Waterpocket Fold.
Cell service is very limited and is generally only available at the very end of the hike, at the summit.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the Navajo Knobs Trail. You'll need to pack all your food and drinks. The nearest options are in Torrey, UT.
Yes, picnicking is allowed along the trail. The summit offers a fantastic spot for a packed lunch with incredible views.
Pack plenty of water (at least 3-4 liters per person), high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and a substantial lunch.
There are no restaurants within Capitol Reef National Park itself. The closest town with dining options is Torrey, Utah.
It is not recommended to drink water from natural sources on the Navajo Knobs Trail without proper filtration or purification due to potential contaminants.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers grand vistas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The summit of Navajo Knobs offers the most iconic and comprehensive photographic opportunities. Various points along the trail also provide excellent scenic shots.
Drone usage is restricted in all US National Parks, including Capitol Reef. Check the NPS website for current regulations before flying.
Focus on the vast desert landscapes, unique geological formations of the Waterpocket Fold, and the sweeping panoramic views from the summit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider shorter, more accessible trails within Capitol Reef National Park for families with younger children, such as the Hickman Bridge Trail or the Grand Wash Trail. These offer impressive scenery without the extreme demands of Navajo Knobs, allowing for a more enjoyable experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when accommodation prices might be lower. Camping within or near the park can also be a more budget-friendly option than hotels. Remember that the most valuable asset for this hike is your time and energy, which are free!
🚶 Solo Adventurers
+1However, solo hikers must be extra vigilant with safety. Ensure you have a reliable way to navigate, plenty of water, and inform someone of your plans. The limited cell service means you'll be relying on your preparedness and self-sufficiency. The summit views are a spectacular reward for your independent journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navajo Knobs Trail: The Ultimate Capitol Reef Hike
+2Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous climb, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,800 feet. The path itself can be unclear in sections, making it essential to have an offline map downloaded and to pay attention to cairns (rock piles) marking the way. This lack of clear signage contributes to its less crowded nature compared to other popular national park trails, making it a favorite for those seeking a more secluded adventure.
+1Beyond the physical challenge, the Navajo Knobs Trail offers a profound connection with the raw beauty of Capitol Reef. The summit provides a breathtaking perspective of the park's unique geology, including the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long monocline. Remember to pack ample water, snacks, and wear sturdy hiking boots. The reward of reaching the top and soaking in the vast, uninterrupted vistas is well worth the effort.
Safety and Preparedness in Capitol Reef
Beyond weather, the desert climate demands careful planning. Extreme temperatures, especially during summer, can lead to heat exhaustion and dehydration. It's imperative to carry more water than you think you'll need – at least 3-4 liters per person for a long hike like Navajo Knobs. High-energy snacks are also essential to maintain stamina. Wear appropriate sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Finally, navigation can be tricky. Trails may not always be clearly marked, and cell service is unreliable. Downloading offline maps of the area and carrying a physical map and compass are highly recommended. Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience in this magnificent landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit