Hickman Natural Bridge
Arch Natural sandstone arch within secluded canyon
Short trail in Capitol Reef National Park leading to a 133-foot sandstone natural bridge; popular with day hikers, photographers and those studying local sedimentary geology.
Hickman Natural Bridge is a natural sandstone arch located in Capitol Reef National Park in south-central Utah, near the Fruita historic district. It is a prominent local landmark and a common short-hike destination within the park.
A single, well-marked trail leads from a parking area through red-rock canyons to a sandstone bridge formed by long-term erosion. The route is typically listed as an easy to moderate out-and-back hike of about 1.8 miles round trip and is suitable for day visitors.
The arch was formed by erosional processes acting on Entrada and other sedimentary formations typical of the Colorado Plateau; no built structures were required. The feature has long been accessible to visitors since the area was established as a national park unit and developed with trails near the Fruita area.
The bridge sits within Capitol Reef National Park in Wayne County, Utah, south of the town of Torrey and close to the park’s Fruita campground and visitor services.
- Trail length and access: The maintained trail to the arch is a short, family-friendly hike of roughly 1.8 miles (about 2.9 km) round trip, starting from the Fruita area of Capitol Reef National Park.
How to Get to Hickman Natural Bridge #
From Torrey, Utah, take State Route 24 to the Capitol Reef National Park Fruita area. The Hickman Bridge trailhead is close to the Fruita Historic District and is signed from the park road; the trailhead has a small parking area. Check current park fees and visitor center hours at the NPS site before travel.
Tips for Visiting Hickman Natural Bridge #
- Hickman Bridge Trail is a relatively short hike (about 1.8 miles round‑trip) - start early to avoid the sun on exposed sections.
- Bring sun protection and water: the trail drops into a slickrock wash before climbing to the bridge's alcove.
- Combine the hike with a visit to the Fruita Historic District for orchards and a pie stop.
Best Time to Visit Hickman Natural Bridge #
Spring and fall offer the best combination of temperatures and clear skies; summer is hot, winter can be cold and icy in shaded areas.
Weather & Climate near Hickman Natural Bridge #
Hickman Natural Bridge's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -8°C to 33°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 5°C and lows of -8°C. The driest month with just 8 mm.
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February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -5°C. Almost no rain.
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of -1°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 2°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 13°C. Light rainfall.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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August
August is mild with highs of 32°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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September
September is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 11°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -2°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -6°C. The driest month with just 8 mm.
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