Cathedral Valley Loop Capitol Reef
A breathtaking 58-mile backcountry drive through Capitol Reef's remote northern district, featuring surreal desert landscapes, towering monoliths, and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Cathedral Valley Loop Capitol Reef
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 58-mile backcountry drive through Capitol Reef's remote northern district, featuring surreal desert landscapes, towering monoliths, and colorful hills.
"The Cathedral Valley Loop is an unforgettable adventure into a surreal desert landscape that feels like another planet."
4x4 & High Clearance Needed
Essential for this rugged backcountry trail. Don't risk it without the right vehicle!
Check River Crossing Status
The Fremont River can be impassable after rain. Call the park for current conditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temples of the Sun & Moon
Cathedral Valley
Iconic sandstone monoliths that glow at sunrise and sunset. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Bentonite Hills
Cathedral Valley
Otherworldly, colorful hills with swirling patterns. Feels like stepping onto another planet.
+1
Fremont River Crossing
Cathedral Valley Loop
A thrilling, shallow river crossing that's part of the adventure. Check conditions before attempting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle & Conditions are Key
+1Plan for a Full Day Adventure
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
4x4 & High Clearance Needed
Essential for this rugged backcountry trail. Don't risk it without the right vehicle!
Check River Crossing Status
The Fremont River can be impassable after rain. Call the park for current conditions.
Start Your Day Early
Maximize daylight and catch the best light for photos. Sunrise at Temples of the Sun & Moon is magical.
Pack Plenty of Water
This is a remote desert drive with no services. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
4x4 & High Clearance Needed
Essential for this rugged backcountry trail. Don't risk it without the right vehicle!
Check River Crossing Status
The Fremont River can be impassable after rain. Call the park for current conditions.
Start Your Day Early
Maximize daylight and catch the best light for photos. Sunrise at Temples of the Sun & Moon is magical.
Pack Plenty of Water
This is a remote desert drive with no services. Stay hydrated!
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is nonexistent. Download maps before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the otherworldly landscapes and remote beauty of the Cathedral Valley Loop, calling it a must-do for its unique geological formations and stunning vistas. However, the necessity of a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle and the potential challenges of the river crossing are significant considerations for many. The lack of services and cell reception also requires thorough preparation.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral Valley Loop is accessed from the north end of Capitol Reef National Park. It's a remote backcountry road, and you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. The loop is approximately 58 miles long and can take a full day to complete.
The drive is considered moderately difficult due to the unpaved, sandy, and rocky terrain, and the river crossing. A high-clearance 4x4 is mandatory. It's not recommended for standard vehicles or during wet conditions.
No, a regular car is not suitable for the Cathedral Valley Loop. You absolutely need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle due to the rough terrain, potential for deep sand, and the Fremont River crossing.
It's highly recommended to download offline maps of the area, as cell service is nonexistent. Many visitors use GPS devices or apps like Gaia GPS. Some also opt for guided tours if they don't have the appropriate vehicle.
The loop itself is about 58 miles, but with stops at overlooks and potential side trips, it can easily take 6-8 hours, or even a full day. Starting early is crucial to enjoy the scenery and complete the drive before dark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the Cathedral Valley Loop is within Capitol Reef National Park, so a valid park entrance pass is required. You can purchase passes at the park's visitor center or online.
There are no additional fees specifically for driving the Cathedral Valley Loop beyond the standard Capitol Reef National Park entrance fee.
The Cathedral Valley Loop is an open backcountry road and does not have set operating hours. However, it is only safely drivable during daylight hours. It's best to check with the park for any temporary closures due to weather.
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas along the Cathedral Valley Loop, but it's primitive camping with no facilities. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check park regulations for any restrictions.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided 4x4 tours of the Cathedral Valley Loop. This is a great option if you don't have your own suitable vehicle or prefer to have an experienced guide.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Temples of the Sun & Moon, Bentonite Hills, the Lower and Upper South Desert Overlooks, and the Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook. The Cathedrals Trail is also a popular short hike.
The Fremont River crossing is a shallow ford that is typically passable for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles. However, its depth and flow can change significantly with weather and snowmelt. Always check conditions before attempting.
Yes, there are opportunities for short hikes. The Cathedrals Trail is a popular 2.5-mile roundtrip hike that leads to impressive rock formations. Other areas offer opportunities for exploration off the main road.
Expect a surreal desert landscape with towering sandstone monoliths, colorful bentonite hills, vast canyons, and panoramic vistas. It's a truly unique and remote geological wonderland.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, unique rock formations, and vibrant colors of the Bentonite Hills make it a photographer's paradise. Sunrise and sunset offer the best light.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
No, there are no food services, restaurants, or even reliable cell service along the Cathedral Valley Loop. You must bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water (at least a gallon per person), high-energy snacks, and a packed lunch. Consider items that don't require refrigeration and are easy to eat on the go.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. Find a safe pull-off spot away from the main road and be sure to pack out everything you pack in, following Leave No Trace principles.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are prime times for photography, offering dramatic lighting on the sandstone formations and colorful hills. Midday can be harsh, but still offers unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the unique shapes of the monoliths. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
The Temples of the Sun & Moon, Bentonite Hills, and the various overlooks (South Desert, Upper Cathedral Valley) are all exceptional photo locations. The Fremont River crossing can also make for interesting shots.
The swirling, multicolored patterns of the Bentonite Hills are best captured with good natural light. Experiment with different angles and consider polarizing filters to enhance the colors and reduce glare.
Dust and sand can be a challenge, so protect your gear. The remote nature means you'll need to be self-sufficient, and weather can change quickly. Plan your shots and be prepared for varying conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are non-existent. Focus on the visual wonders like the Bentonite Hills and the Temples of the Sun & Moon, which can spark imagination. Short, easy hikes like the Cathedrals Trail can also be manageable for younger children. Download offline entertainment for the drive, as there's no cell service.
Consider booking a guided tour if you want a more relaxed experience without the stress of driving. 🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
+1This loop is ideal for those who enjoy remote exploration and stunning geological formations. It’s a chance to get away from the crowds and immerse yourself in a unique desert environment. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with recovery gear. Downloading detailed offline maps is crucial for navigation.
📸 Photographers
+1Plan your visit around sunrise and sunset for the best light. The remote nature of the loop means you can often find solitude, allowing for unhurried composition. Be prepared for dust and changing weather conditions, and protect your gear accordingly. The unique geological features provide ample subjects for both wide-angle landscape shots and detailed close-ups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cathedral Valley Loop
+1Offline navigation is essential as there is no cell service. Download maps of the area using apps like Gaia GPS or Google Maps offline feature. Some travelers also bring dedicated GPS devices. The loop can be driven in either direction, but starting from the west and crossing the river first is often preferred by those with less experience. Always inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time.
Key stops along the loop include the iconic Temples of the Sun & Moon, the surreal Bentonite Hills, and several overlooks offering panoramic views of the vast desert landscape. Allow ample time for these stops, as they are the highlights of the drive. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you pack in and staying on designated routes.
+1The Fremont River Crossing
Before attempting the crossing, it is imperative to check the current conditions. The Capitol Reef National Park visitor center can provide the most up-to-date information. If the river appears too high or the current too strong, do not attempt to cross. It's better to turn back or find an alternative route than to risk getting stuck or damaging your vehicle.
Travelers often share videos and photos of the crossing, highlighting its adventurous nature. If you are unsure about your vehicle's capability or the river's condition, consider booking a guided tour. This ensures you have an experienced driver and a vehicle equipped for the challenge.
+1Photography Opportunities
+1Beyond these iconic spots, the numerous overlooks provide sweeping vistas of the vast canyons and geological formations. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the grandeur of the landscape, while telephoto lenses can be used to isolate the intricate details of the rock formations. A sturdy tripod is highly recommended for capturing sharp images during the golden hours.
Be prepared for dust and sand, which can be a challenge for camera gear. Consider bringing protective covers or cleaning supplies. The remote nature of the loop also means you'll need to be self-sufficient with your photography equipment and power sources. The solitude and raw beauty of Cathedral Valley offer unparalleled opportunities for capturing breathtaking images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit