Overview
Cathedral Valley is one of those places that visitors always end up asking "Where is that?, why didn't I see that when I visited Capitol Reef?"
The reality is, though some of its most awe-inspiring features are included in promotional photos and literature, access to the region is not something a new visitor to the park in a rental vehicle would be advised to embark on. It is, however, one that is highly recommended to any visitor who wants to experience the true heart and soul of Capitol Reef.
We offer two options for this tour: 1. Half Day and 2. Full Day.
1. Half-day tour will take you to the most beautiful and iconic features of Capitol Reef: Temple of the Sun, Temple of Moon, and The Glass Mountain. You will see grand vistas of the colorful Bentonite and Mancos Shale, Mars-like formations.
2. Full-day is an 8-hour long trip that will take you on a 60-mile Cathedral Valley loop to all 8 destinations detailed in the tour's itinerary of the "What to expect" session below.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Bottled water
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
This pick-up address is The Hidden Falls gas station's parking lot. The same parking lot is shared with La Queva restaurant. Park under a big green sign with gas prices on. Your tour guide will arrive in a black or white SUV with the letters MERIDIAN on it.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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Cathedral Valley
5 hours
We will pick up guests at their lodging location in one of our luxury off-road SUVs. Guests will then be transported through approximately 70 miles of some of the most remote terrain in Utah. The renowned Cathedral Valley Loop includes a dramatic river crossing (in the safety of our capable SUVs) as well as scenic stops. Refreshments will be provided as well as a stop for lunch and/or snacks. Insight into the history, both ancient, geologic, and recent, will be provided to add to the pure scenic spectacle that is an unforgettable memory and adventure.
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Bentonite Hills
15 min
The road into this location takes you through some spectacular, rainbow-striped sedimentary hills of Jurrasic era deposits that need to be seen to be believed.
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Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook
10 min
Guests will be treated with a birds-eye view of the amazing monoliths and geology of Cathedral Valley below and a vista across the valley to the nearly twelve thousand foot high Thousand Lakes Mountain. A short, 1/4mile hike will bring those who wish an even closer look at this amazing valley!
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Lower South Desert Overlook
20 min
This overlook offers stunning views right from the parking area and even more beautiful vistas from the end of an easy, 1/4mile hike.
Guests will see the best view of the iconic Jailhouse Rock formation which is the centerpiece of the overlook. -
Upper South Desert Overlook Road
15 min
A short spur road off of the main loop will bring guests to another short hike(optional) of 1/8mile to one of the highest overlook points on the tour. From this point, amazing views and photos await, spanning east and west up and down the valley below.
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Walls of Jericho
15 min
Magnificient Entrada formation that represents the name of Cathedral Valley.
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Gypsum Sinkhole
20 min
This is where the story of The Glass Mountain ends. Possible pronghorn antelope viewing.
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Temple of the Sun
30 min
Sandstone iconic towers that only 1% of visitors to Capitol Reef National Park get to experience.
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Glass Mountains
15 min
A unique on Earth site where an enormous crystal lattice rises from the desert sands and glistens in the afternoon sunlight.
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Temple of the Moon
20 min
A knowledgeable guide will lead you around this iconic monolith and show you the best viewing and photography points.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Denver).
Additional Information
- Not recommended for visually impaired travelers
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
FAQs about Full-Day Private Off-Road Tour in Capitol Reef National Park
Can I cancel Full-Day Private Off-Road Tour in Capitol Reef National Park for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 8 hours.
Where does it start, and is pickup offered?
This pick-up address is The Hidden Falls gas station's parking lot. The same parking lot is shared with La Queva restaurant. Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
What's included?
- Bottled water
Which places does it visit?
It visits Cathedral Valley, Bentonite Hills, Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook, Lower South Desert Overlook, Upper South Desert Overlook Road, Walls of Jericho, Gypsum Sinkhole, Temple of the Sun.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in Russian, English, Italian.
Operated by Meridian
