The Capitol Gorge is a family-friendly dry hike through a 1 mile slot canyon with ample opportunity to climb and scramble on the sandstone rock formations. It’s difficult to imagine, but the Grand Wash was historically used as a primitive road for wagons and automobiles before an easier route was created after World War II. The careful observer will notice remnants of the early telegraph system where the canyon walls were drilled to accommodate supporting posts for the telegraph cable. A Pioneer Register located on the canyon walls can be found at the onset of the trail. A popular turn around spot on this in-and-back hike is a spur trail leading to the The Tanks, or natural potholes.

The drive to the trail head is in itself a scenic adventure as the paved road becomes gravel and then finally a sandy wash until it arrives at the trailhead. While the Capitol Gorge is generally dry, heavy rains can turn the trail and dirt road into a river quickly.