The trail begins on the Notom-Bullfrog Road, 9 miles south of Highway 241. You can park at the trailhead or drive a short distance up the wash with a high-clearance vehicle. The first few miles are easy and follow the wide wash bottom surrounded by low hills. You will cross the park boundary and enter the Waterpocket Fold, a massive geologic feature that forms the backbone of the park. Here, the canyon walls start to rise and close in, creating a series of slot canyons that will challenge your hiking abilities.

You will encounter several boulders that you will have to climb over or under, some as high as 15 feet. You will also have to squeeze through tight passages and wade or swim through pools of water that may be deep and cold. The trail ends at a large pool that blocks further progress. You can admire the beauty and solitude of this hidden gem before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.

Sources: Conversation with Bing https://www.utah.com/destinations/national-parks/capitol-reef-national-park/things-to-do/hiking/cottonwood-wash/ https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/capitol-reef-national-park/cottonwood-wash/