CATHEDRAL VALLEY

Cathedral Valley, a secluded realm within Capitol Reef National Park, offers a profound encounter with the raw, untamed beauty of the desert. This backcountry destination is characterized by its dramatic geological formations, its sense of isolation, and its stark, breathtaking vistas. It’s a place where the forces of erosion have sculpted a landscape of unparalleled grandeur. The Cathedral Valley Loop is a secluded and breathtaking escape for adventurers who don’t mind venturing off the main road.

Sites Along the Way

Bentonite Hills: Early on Hartnet Road, these colorful, rounded hills shine in red, purple, and gray tones. Formed from volcanic ash that’s turned to clay, they‘re a dramatic introduction to the loop‘s otherworldly landscape, shining brightly at sunrise or sunset.

Upper South Desert Overlook: Approximately 27 miles in, a short walk from the road provides a spectacular view of the South Desert. Red cliffs line the horizon, and the untouched openness feels timeless—imagine buffalo roaming below to grasp its scale.

Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook: Near Hartnet Junction, this viewpoint showcases the valley’s namesake “cathedrals”—Entrada sandstone monoliths rising like Gothic spires. A brief hike offers close-up views, especially magical in evening light.

Gypsum Sinkhole: A mile-long spur off Cathedral Road leads to this 50-foot-wide, 200-foot-deep chasm. Formed by dissolved gypsum collapsing underground, it’s a stark reminder of the area’s dynamic geology.

Temples of the Sun and Moon: These twin giants of sandstone tower over Lower Cathedral Valley at mile 52. The Temple of the Sun stands more than 400 feet tall, ablaze at sunrise, while the nearby Temple of the Moon and Glass Mountain—a mound of sparkling gypsum crystals—contribute to the otherworldly beauty.

Wildlife in the Area

Cathedral Valley’s desert environment supports a variety of tough wildlife. Mule deer live in the higher elevations near the Cathedral Valley Campground, and pronghorn antelope race across open flats. Bighorn sheep are found scaling rocky cliff faces, their surefootedness a marvel. Smaller animals like jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, and lizards—like the side-blotched or collared varieties—scamper through the sagebrush. Birds of prey, like golden eagles and red-tailed hawks, soar on the thermals overhead, stalking from on high. At night, try to hear great horned owl hoots or coyote yips echoing across the valley. While sightings are rare due to the lack of human activity, bring binoculars and keep a distance—wildlife feeding is prohibited.

Geography and Geological Wonders

Cathedral Valley’s geography is a captivating narrative written in layers of sedimentary rock, predominantly Entrada and Navajo sandstone, revealing tales of ancient environments and shifting landscapes. Adding a vibrant visual dimension are the colorful Bentonite Hills, their distinct banded hues creating a striking contrast against the surrounding desert terrain. Further highlighting the area’s geological diversity is the intriguing Gypsum sinkhole, a testament to the complex processes that have shaped this region. The valley’s remote location and rugged terrain combine to create a profound sense of isolation, transforming it into a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with the untamed beauty of nature.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Accessing Cathedral Valley requires careful planning and preparation. High-clearance vehicles are an important detail, as the roads are unpaved and can be challenging.
Visitors should be prepared for potential hazards, including extreme temperatures, limited resources, and the possibility of encountering difficult road conditions, especially after rain.
It is important to check weather and road conditions before venturing into the valley and to carry ample supplies of water, food, and emergency equipment.
Pack plenty of water, lunch, and sunscreen.

Facilities in the campground amount to no more than a pit toilet. The solitude—less than 1% of park visitors make this journey only adds to the adventure, but it is important to be prepared.

Additional Cathedral Valley Trail Info

Road Conditions

The Cathedral Valley Loop begins and ends on Highway 24, and there are two principal points of access: Hartnet Road on the west and Caineville Wash Road (also called Cathedral Road) on the east. Hartnet Road, 11.7 miles east of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center, begins with a crossing of the Fremont River. This ford is typically shallow—maybe a foot deep—with a rock bottom, but the water can deepen during spring runoff or summer monsoons and become impassable. The dirt road past the ford has washboard surfaces, rocky stretches, and stretches of deep sand. Caineville Wash Road, entered farther east near Caineville, skirts the river crossing but still provides the same types of challenges: loose sand, rocky washes, and rough roads. Road conditions are weather-dependent—rain turns the bentonite clay into slippery mud, and snow or floods shut down parts altogether. Stop at the visitor center or call 435-425-3791 (press #1, then #4) to check conditions before heading out, as assistance can be hours away in this isolated region.