Five Mile Wash

Five Mile Wash, in Capitol Reef National Park, is a distinct canyon among several that drain from the Waterpocket Fold's eastern side. Accessible from Notom-Bullfrog road, this 1.8-mile canyon, characterized by Navajo sandstone, is ideal for exploration in spring, summer, and fall. It begins by narrowing and deepening from the reef's edge but is quickly obstructed by an impassable pool and dryfall, redirecting hikers to a rim-level route with views of domed summits and the Henry Mountains. The terrain, less frequented than others like Burro Wash, includes shallow channels, dryfalls, and pools amidst fallen rocks. Deeper sections in the white Navajo sandstone layer present near-vertical walls and enclosed environments, often requiring a mix of hiking, wading, and rappelling. An alternate cliff-top trek offers views of the deep, winding canyon, its muddy pools, and large boulders, against a backdrop of vast landscapes.