Ferns Nipple | Capitol Reef

Hiking Ferns Nipple - Capitol Reef Hiking Ferns Nipple

Capitol Reef

Overview

RATING: Class 4 Hiking

Wed

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. South southeast wind around 5 mph.

49 | 27

Thu

A slight chance of snow between 11am and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

50 | 28

Fri

Mostly sunny, with a high near 50.

50 | 27

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 55.

55 | 28

Sun

Sunny, with a high near 62.

62 | 32

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SEASON: Spring, Summer, Fall
GEAR: 10 m ( 33 ft. ) rope
WATER: None, bring all you need.

Wed

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. South southeast wind around 5 mph.

49 | 27

Thu

A slight chance of snow between 11am and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

50 | 28

Fri

Mostly sunny, with a high near 50.

50 | 27

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 55.

55 | 28

Sun

Sunny, with a high near 62.

62 | 32

View Full Weather Details
Views Looking North

Views Looking North

Ferns Nipple is prominent and viewable from many areas of the park. From a distance, it looks remote and a potentially difficult summit to reach via very complicated navigation. In reality, however, this is a fairly casual route that is frequently done. Though it has some exposure, the hike is relatively straightforward and never harder than easy 5th class. In truth, it is likely only 4th class with a little bit of exposure. A short rope (10m) may be recommended for the timid, but most won't need it.

This is not a route for absolute beginners, but for those with a bit of scrambling and navigation experience, it is a wondrous route. The intricate and complex path up from Grand Wash soon gives way to big views of Grand Wash and the surrounding areas, while the summit proper is sure to leave a smile on all but the most jaded. It offers the biggest views of Capitol Reef I have found, and is stunning. Be sure to peruse the register than has been in place an astounding 35+ years!

Historical Note: Local lore has the legendary Butch Cassidy naming Ferns Nipple in honor of one of his girlfriends.
Ferns Nipple

Ferns Nipple

View from the top of Nighthawk Canyon

View from the top of Nighthawk Canyon

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