Cathedral Valley Loop
Cathedral Valley Loop is a moderate 58 miles off-road trail near Capitol Reef NP, UT, best run March - November. The gear list marks All-terrain tires and 4WD required as required. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
No reports yet
Capitol Reef's least-visited district features massive sandstone monoliths rising from the desert floor like ancient cathedrals. A 60-mile loop of rugged dirt roads requires fording the Fremont River to enter, ensuring the crowds stay away and the solitude remains absolute.
Fun Facts
Temple of the Sun monolith stands 400 feet tall in the desert.
Cathedral Valley gets less than 10 visitors per day on average.
The valley was once an ancient seabed, and marine fossils can be found throughout.
🛞 Tires
⚙️ Drivetrain
Closest campgrounds to Cathedral Valley Loop:
- Fruita Campground · Torrey · 7 mi (straight-line)
- Group Campsite · Torrey · 7 mi (straight-line)
- Primitive campsites at Cathedral Campground · Torrey · 15 mi (straight-line)
- Elkhorn Campground · 18 mi (straight-line)
- Sunglow Campground · 20 mi (straight-line)
- Primitive campsites at Cedar Mesa Campground · Torrey · 24 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
Where to Camp
6 campgrounds within 30 miles of this trail
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Capitol Reef NP, UT
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.