Ferns Nipple | Capitol Reef

Hiking Ferns Nipple - Capitol Reef Hiking Ferns Nipple

Capitol Reef

Overview

RATING: Class 4 Hiking

Sat

Mostly sunny. High near 82, with temperatures falling to around 80 in the afternoon. Southwest wind 6 to 12 mph.

82 | 54

Sun

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Sunny, with a high near 78. South southwest wind 6 to 12 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

78 | 52

Mon

A slight chance of rain showers before noon, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

73 | 53

Tue

Sunny, with a high near 73.

73 | 50

Wed

Sunny, with a high near 74.

74 | 50

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

Sat

Mostly sunny. High near 82, with temperatures falling to around 80 in the afternoon. Southwest wind 6 to 12 mph.

82 | 54

Sun

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Sunny, with a high near 78. South southwest wind 6 to 12 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

78 | 52

Mon

A slight chance of rain showers before noon, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

73 | 53

Tue

Sunny, with a high near 73.

73 | 50

Wed

Sunny, with a high near 74.

74 | 50

View Full Weather Details
Views Looking North

Views Looking North

Important Note: The Scenic Drive, used to access this trailhead, will be closed from April 29, 2024 through fall of 2024. See the park page for details: https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/scenic-drive-rehabilitation-project.htm

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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