Capitol Reef National Park: Cathedral Valley Day Trip

Capitol Reef National Park’s Cathedral Valley is a hidden gem, captivating only a fraction of visitors. Set out on a day trip to witness its breathtaking geological wonders, from the Temples of the Sun and Moon to the Gypsum Sinkhole. This $220 per person tour promises a scenic 70-mile drive, hiking opportunities, and stunning photography. Discover why this remote region leaves a lasting impression on those who venture beyond the park’s main attractions.

Key Points

• Guided day trip to explore the remote and scenic Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef National Park, featuring geological wonders like Temples of the Sun and Moon.
• Tour priced at $220 per person for a 4-6 hour experience, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
• Scenic 70-mile drive through the desert, showcasing the park’s diverse landscapes and offering ample photo opportunities.
• Variety of hiking options, ranging from 20 to 45 minutes, to immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the region.
• Experienced guides provide insights to enhance the off-the-beaten-path adventure and offer a deeper understanding of the area’s geological history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Capitol Reef National Park day trip offers a Cathedral Valley tour from Torrey and Teasdale areas.

Priced from $220 per person, the 4-6 hour tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. It doesn’t require upfront payment – just reserve your spot.

The tour explores Cathedral Valley, seen by only 1% of visitors, and features geological wonders like Temples of the Sun and Moon, Glass Mountain, and Gypsum Sinkhole.

Along the 70-mile scenic drive, guests can enjoy photo ops and optional hikes for an additional fee.

Exploring Cathedral Valley

As the highlight of the Cathedral Valley day trip, visitors explore a remote and captivating landscape that’s seen by only a small fraction of Capitol Reef National Park’s annual visitors.

They witness geological wonders like the Temples of the Sun and Moon, Glass Mountain, and the Gypsum Sinkhole.

The scenic 70-mile drive through the desert offers ample photo opportunities, and hiking options range from 20 minutes to 45 minutes, with additional hikes available for a fee.

Knowledgeable guides ensure guests make the most of this off-the-beaten-path adventure in Southern Utah’s stunning desert.

Geological Wonders of the Region

The Cathedral Valley day trip offers visitors a chance to witness the captivating geological wonders of the region.

Throughout the drive, travelers will marvel at the Temples of the Sun and Moon, two massive sandstone formations that tower over the landscape.

The Glass Mountain, a glistening outcrop of translucent selenite crystals, is another highlight.

A glistening outcrop of translucent selenite crystals, the Glass Mountain stands as a captivating natural wonder in Cathedral Valley.

Participants can also explore the Gypsum Sinkhole, a mysterious depression formed by the dissolution of underground gypsum deposits.

These geological features provide fascinating insights into the area’s dynamic geologic history and create an unforgettable experience for all who venture into Cathedral Valley.

Scenic Drive Through the Desert

During the scenic drive through the desert, visitors are treated to over 70 miles of captivating Southern Utah landscapes.

The route features secret stops and picturesque viewpoints, allowing guests to fully enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Along the way, travelers will witness the Temples of the Sun and Moon, Glass Mountain, and the Gypsum Sinkhole – breathtaking geological phenomena that showcase the area’s diverse and awe-inspiring terrain.

This scenic journey sets the stage for the main attraction: the exploration of Cathedral Valley, a remote and lesser-known gem that only 1% of park visitors ever experience.

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Hiking and Photography Opportunities

Though the scenic drive through the desert is captivating, the real highlight of this day trip lies in the numerous hiking and photography opportunities throughout Capitol Reef National Park.

The real highlight of this day trip lies in the numerous hiking and photography opportunities throughout Capitol Reef National Park.

Guests can choose from various hiking options, ranging from 20 minutes to 45 minutes, with an opportunity to extend the experience further for an additional fee.

Along the way, they’ll encounter stunning geological formations, including:

• Temples of the Sun and Moon

• Glass Mountain

• Gypsum Sinkhole

These diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs and take in the park’s natural beauty.

Dining and Lunch Break

A 30-minute lunch break is available for an additional fee during the tour. Guests can enjoy a brief respite and refuel during the excursion.

Packed lunches aren’t provided, but the tour stops at a convenient location where participants can purchase a meal. This optional lunch break allows visitors to rest, recharge, and take in the stunning surroundings before continuing their journey through Cathedral Valley.

It’s a chance to fuel up and reenergize for the remainder of the adventure. Lunch isn’t included in the tour price, so guests should budget accordingly if they wish to partake in this offering.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and bottled water.

However, gratuities, parks entrance fees, and food aren’t included.

This day trip isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 10

• Pregnant women

• Individuals with back or heart problems

• Wheelchair users

• Visually impaired people

Recommendations for the tour include bringing hiking shoes.

Pets and oversized luggage aren’t allowed on the trip.

Customers should be aware that weather may affect the tour, and modifications or cancellations may occur.

Customer Feedback and Important Considerations

Overall, Capitol Reef National Park’s Cathedral Valley Day Trip has received positive feedback, with a 4.7/5 rating from 22 customer reviews.

Highlights include the tour’s professional guides and their knowledgeability, as well as the excursion’s value for money.

However, customers should note that weather may affect the tour, leading to modifications or cancellations.

Weather can impact the tour, potentially resulting in changes or cancellations.

It’s recommended to wear proper hiking shoes, and pets and oversized luggage aren’t allowed.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, wheelchair users, or the visually impaired.

Ask Away

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

No, gratuity is not included in the tour price. The tour inclusions only cover hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, and bottled water. Gratuities for the tour guide must be paid separately by the customer.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. According to the important information, the tour is not suitable for pets, and they are not permitted. Customers are advised to leave their pets at home when booking this day trip.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour provider doesn’t offer a private tour option. According to the information provided, the tour is only available as a group experience, and pets are not allowed on the tour.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the spring or fall when temperatures are milder and weather is more stable. Summers can be very hot, while winters may bring snow or rain that could disrupt the tour.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can discuss this option with the tour provider when booking or upon arrival. The tour includes flexibility to accommodate individual needs and preferences.

Final Words

Discover the surreal beauty of Capitol Reef National Park’s Cathedral Valley on this day trip. Capture stunning geological formations, enjoy a scenic desert drive, and explore hiking trails – all for $220 per person. It’s an immersive experience perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, with only 1% of visitors venturing to this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: