Cathedral Valley Loop

Cathedral Valley’s monolithic sandstone towers rise like ancient temples from a lunar landscape that feels more Mars than Utah. This 58-mile loop through Capitol Reef’s remote northern district crosses the Fremont River twice—real water crossings that can strand you during spring runoff—before winding between 400-foot spires called Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. The route follows old uranium mining roads through bentonite badlands so stark they’ve doubled for alien planets in Hollywood films, with the Gypsum Sinkhole’s collapsed dome marking the loop’s most bizarre waypoint.

High-clearance 4WD is mandatory for the river crossings and rough mining roads, though the technical difficulty stays moderate. Check river levels at the visitor center before committing—spring snowmelt can make crossings impossible. Summer heat is punishing; spring and fall offer ideal conditions. No permits needed, but inform rangers of your plans. Primitive camping allowed throughout, making this perfect for a 2-day exploration. You’ll experience Capitol Reef’s wildest scenery and some of the Colorado Plateau’s most otherworldly geology.