NPS

Halls Creek Narrows

BACKCOUNTRY USE

Capitol Reef offers many hiking options for serious backpackers and those who enjoy exploring remote areas. Marked hiking routes lead into narrow, twisting gorges and slot canyons and to spectacular viewpoints high atop the Waterpocket Fold. Popular backcountry hikes in the southern section of the park include Upper and Lower Muley Twist Canyons and Halls Creek. Backcountry hiking opportunities also exist in the Cathedral Valley area and near Fruita...the possibilities are endless! Stop in the visitor center and talk to a ranger if you are interested in a backcountry hike. They can help you pick out a hike that will fit your time and abilities. If you plan to take an overnight hike, you need to obtain a free backcountry permit at the visitor center prior to your trip. Backcountry group size cannot exceed 12 people.

BACKCOUNTRY DOs AND DON'Ts

DOs:

• Tell others your plans and expected return date.
• Obtain a free backcountry permit prior to your hike.
• Carry topographic maps and guides of the area.
• Pack out all trash, including garbage, cigarette butts, and toilet paper. Do not burn or bury.
• Bury human waste 6" deep in soil and 100' from water sources.
• Stay on marked routes whenever possible. When hiking crosscountry, walk in wash bottoms, on slickrock, or use animal trails to avoid stepping in cryptobiotic crust.

DON'Ts:

• Collect firewood or build ground fires. Instead, use portable stoves for cooking.
• Pollute water sources by washing or bathing. You should always carry water away from the source to clean dishes or bathe then strain out food particles and disperse dirty water. Always use biodegradable soap. Never swim in waterpockets; lotion, sunscreen, and residue on skin can quickly pollute water sources that are not free-flowing.
• Camp within 1/2 mile or in sight of roads or trails. In narrow canyons, try to camp as far away from the hiking route as possible and out of sight.
• Carry firearms.
• Disturb or deface natural features, historic, or archeological sites.
• Collect items of any kind, including rocks, plants, animals, or artifacts