In short
- The drive takes 6 to 8 hours on 57.6 miles (92.7 km) of dirt roads.
- There is no drinking water or cell service in the valley.
- Pack plenty of food, water, and car entertainment for kids.
In this article
Taking kids into the North (Cathedral Valley) District means committing to a full day of backcountry driving. You cross a river and navigate rugged roads in a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Families should weigh the rough conditions against their children's tolerance for long car trips.
Is the Cathedral Valley Loop family-friendly?
It depends entirely on how well your kids handle long car rides.
The full Cathedral Valley Loop covers 57.6 miles (92.7 km) of rugged dirt roads. Driving the entire route takes 6 to 8 hours. The ride is constantly bumpy, and stops are limited to primitive desert areas. There are no visitor centers, shops, or flush toilets along the way.
What do kids need on the drive?
Children need plenty of water, heavy snacks, and activities to pass the time.
There is no potable water available in the district. Pack more drinking water than you think you need. Bring a cooler with extra food, snacks, and emergency supplies. Because the drive takes up to 8 hours, download offline movies, audiobooks, or games before leaving Torrey. You will not have cell service.
Are there bathrooms for kids on the Cathedral Valley Loop?
There is only one set of pit toilets along the route.
The Cathedral Valley primitive campground has pit toilets. This campground sits exactly halfway through the loop at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,133 m). For the rest of the 57.6-mile (92.7 km) drive, your family must use nature and follow leave-no-trace principles.
Can we take a guided tour instead of driving?
Yes, booking a guided 4x4 tour is an excellent option for families.
If you do not have a vehicle with 8 inches of ground clearance, local guides can drive you. This removes the stress of fording the Fremont River. Tours depart from Torrey and Hanksville. Many guides provide snacks, cold water, and air-conditioned vehicles.
Are kids allowed to climb the Bentonite Hills or Temples?
No, climbing on the formations is strictly prohibited to protect the desert.
Foot travel in the Bentonite Hills must stay on firm, previously disturbed areas or wash bottoms. The clay is fragile and scars easily. Families must keep kids off the slopes, especially if the ground is wet. The same applies to Glass Mountain, where collecting or damaging the fragile gypsum crystals is illegal.
What happens if we get stuck with children?
You must rely on your own emergency supplies until help arrives.
Traffic is very sparse. Pack a shovel, basic vehicle recovery gear, and warm clothing layers. Temperatures drop drastically at night. Always check road conditions by calling 435-425-3791 (press 4) before you depart. Never attempt the Fremont River ford during floods.
Questions travellers ask
How long is the Cathedral Valley Loop?
The loop covers 57.6 miles (92.7 km) of dirt roads. Driving the entire route typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete.
Can we bring our dog on the drive?
You can bring a dog in your vehicle, but pets are not permitted on trails or in off-trail backcountry areas.
Do kids have to pay an entry fee?
No. The Cathedral Valley loop itself has no entry fee for visitors of any age.
