Drive the dusty yet scenic Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour
Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour is a very scenic drive located in the Cathedral Valley District of Capitol Reef National Park, in Wayne County, Utah, in USA. It is usually accessible to most cars with high clearance. It’s one of the best drives of Capitol Reef National Park.
How long is the Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour?
The complete loop is 57.6 mile (92.7 km) loop clockwise. It’s a dirt track and after rain, even a single rainfall, conditions of the road can be challenging. Adverse weather conditions can prompt closure of the road. The loop begins on the Hartnet Road and continue to Hartnet Junction. Turning right (north) onto Cathedral Road and back to Highway 24 will complete the loop.
Is the Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour open?
The loop is opened to travel all year. It is usually accessible to most cars with high clearance. However, road conditions can vary greatly depending on recent weather conditions and 4x4 vehicles will be required.The south end of Hartnet Road near Highway 24 requires fording the Fremont River; there is no bridge over the river so crossing may require a high-clearance or HC4WD vehicle and is impossible if the river is flooding. Check the water depth first. High clearance is essential for this ford, and 4wd is good as well. Do not attempt to cross the river during floods or other periods of high water. The ford has a hard packed, rocky bottom and water levels are normally a foot or less deep.
Is the Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour remote?
The area is rather remote without cell phone service and it could take quite a bit of time for help to reach you. Go prepared, this is solitude at its finest. If you have problems, help may not arrive for hours or even days, depending on the time of year. Travel in this rugged, isolated region requires preparation. You are responsible for your own safety.
How long does it take to drive the Cathedral Valley Driving Loop Tour?
This driving loop takes about 6-8 hours to complete. Plan extra time in case of rough conditions and for exploring the area. The tour showcases panoramic viewpoints, and landscapes.
Pic: David Fernandes