The Cathedral Valley Trail is an off-roading trail full of epic otherworldly landscapes and is a must do in our opinion. Only 10% of visitors to Capitol Reef National Park venture to this trail, so you’re likely to have these wild landscapes to yourself. The Cathedral Valley Trail was our favorite part of Capitol Reef National Park by far.
Cathedral Valley Trail: Need to know
You’ll need a high clearance 4WD vehicle. The area is very remote so prepare with plenty of food and supplies in case you are stranded. The entire 58 mile trail takes between 5 and 8 hours depending on stops.
The best light for photography is the order we did the trail, but you leave the river crossing until the end so need to be confident you can do the crossing. Do NOT attempt river crossing with recent rain or snow!
Cathedral Valley Trail: Where to Stay
- Caineville is closest town to start of trail
- Cathedral Valley primitive campground is halfway through the trail
- some spots on the trail are BLM land and you can camp for free!
Cathedral Valley Trail Stops
The Cathedral Valley Loop can be driven in either direction, however, we recommend doing it counterclockwise and starting early in the morning. This allows you to get the best photography lighting as well as an amazing sunset on the bentonite hills.
Temples of the Sun and Moon
The temples are monoliths that formed millions of years ago during the Jurassic period. Like many of the wonderful structures in Utah, the temples of the sun and moon are composed of Entrada Sandstone.
This is the perfect place to watch the sun rise because of the glowing reflection against the sandstone. You can take an epic photo with both temples from the temple of the moon pointing toward the temple of the sun.
Glass Mountain
Behind the Temples of the Sun, turn at the fork in the road, is Glass Mountain. While it’s not your typical “mountain”, it’s a sight to see and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Temples of the Sun and Moon.
Glass Mountain is believed to have formed over millions of years, as winds and water erosion caused the sandstone layers to become fused together. This process created a smooth, glass-like surface that is unlike anything else in the park.
Gypsum Sinkhole
The Gypsum Sinkhole is a geological wonder that is a must-see destination for any adventure seeker. This deep, circular hole in the ground is a testament to the power of erosion and the forces of nature, and it offers a truly unique and breathtaking experience for visitors.
The Gypsum Sinkhole is believed to have formed over millions of years, as underground water eroded the soft gypsum layers beneath the surface. The sinkhole is surrounded by towering cliffs and colorful rock formations, adding to its dramatic and otherworldly appearance.
Cathedrals Trail
The Cathedrals Trail is a great point to hop out of the car and explore the terrain on foot. This trail is about 2 miles with about 300 feet of elevation gain and will take 1-2 hours.
Along the way are panoramic views of the Cathedral monoliths which are some of the most impressive structures in the park. It’s a wonder how some of the balancing rocks have stayed in place for so long.
Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook
A short walk that provides more views of the cathedrals and Entrada cliffs in the upper valley.
Upper South Desert Overlook
Another short walk which provides views of the lower south desert. It’s also sometimes possible to see Factory Butte, another great sight to see.
Lower Cathedral Valley Overlook
This 1 mile walk takes you to views of the lower valley where you can see the temples of the sun and moon again!
Lower South Desert Overlook
The lower south desert overlook was our favorite overlook! This overlook takes you along Curtis formations down to panoramic views of one of the best structures in the park Jailhouse Rock.
Bentonite Hills
The Bentonite Hills are to Cathedral Valley what the sandstone walls are to Antelope Canyon. There are many bentonite hills around Utah, but you wont find anything like this. Enjoy the drive through the hills, watch the sun set, and find your camp spot for the night.
Fremont River Crossing
The final stretch, or for some the beginning, of the Cathedral Valley Trail. Remember that the river crossing should not be attempted if it has rained or snowed recently. The river may be much higher than usual during this time and you risk getting stuck.
Dedicate a few days to exploring this remote region and enjoy all of the incredible views from the overlooks and unique geological features!
Have you heard of this trail?
