01
Temple of the Sun
30-45 minutesBest at dawn
This towering Entrada Sandstone monolith rises prominently from the flat desert. It catches the early morning light directly. Arrive at dawn to photograph the structure as it glows against the basin.
Explore
Upper & Lower Cathedral Valley
Drive through a remote desert basin defined by massive Entrada Sandstone monoliths. You need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to explore this rugged landscape.
The Cathedral Valley driving loop covers 57.6 miles (92.7 km) of dirt roads. The route features soaring, freestanding monoliths that rise straight from the flat desert floor. Rock layers here tilt gently eastward at 3 to 5 degrees.
You can see volcanic dikes and sills in the Upper Cathedral Valley, formed by volcanic activity 3 to 6 million years ago. Driving the full loop takes 6 to 8 hours. Always call 435-425-3791 (press 4) for road conditions before setting out.
02
Temple of the Moon
30 minutesPhotograph both temples
This massive monolith sits near the Temple of the Sun in the Lower Cathedral Valley. It is slightly smaller than its neighbor. Find a high vantage point along the valley floor to photograph both structures together.
03
Glass Mountain
15-30 minutesDo not collect crystals
Glass Mountain is an exposed plug made of large, sparkling selenite crystals. These gypsum formations are extremely fragile. Collecting or damaging the crystals is strictly prohibited.
04
Gypsum Sinkhole
15 minutesUnstable rim
This deep sinkhole formed when a massive underground gypsum deposit completely dissolved. It sits isolated in the surrounding rock. Keep a safe distance from the edge, as the rim is highly unstable.
Book a Half-Day Temple Tour
Private Capitol Reef Half Day Temple of the Sun and Moon4 h to 5 h 5.0 (30)from $400
