In short
- Starts 11.7 miles (18.8 km) east of the visitor center.
- Requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle (8-inch minimum).
- Call 435-425-3791 (press 4) to check conditions before driving.
In this article
The Fremont River ford is the gateway to the Cathedral Valley Loop via the Hartnet Road. Crossing the water takes about 15 minutes, but the risks change daily. You must verify river bottom conditions and water depth before your tires touch the water.
Where is the Fremont River ford located?
The ford is located just off Highway 24, 11.7 miles (18.8 km) east of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center.
This crossing gives you access to the Hartnet Road section of the Cathedral Valley Loop. Once you cross, the dirt road continues into the backcountry.
What kind of vehicle do I need?
You must have a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle with high ground clearance.
The National Park Service defines high clearance as at least 8 inches. The river bottom can shift, and low vehicles will flood or get stuck in the sand.
How do I assess the water level?
You must check current conditions at the Capitol Reef visitor center or call the road hotline.
Do not guess the water depth by looking at it. Call 435-425-3791 and press 4 for recorded road and river conditions. Never attempt the crossing during floods or high water.
What if it rains?
Do not cross the river or drive the Cathedral Valley Loop if rain is expected.
The dirt roads become completely impassable when wet. If you cross the river and it rains, you could become trapped in the backcountry.
Are there tours that cross the river?
Yes, local outfitters offer 4x4 tours that handle the river ford for you.
Booking a guided trip is a reliable option if you do not have an 8-inch clearance vehicle. Professional drivers know the river bottom and monitor daily conditions.
How long does the crossing take?
The actual river crossing process takes about 15 minutes.
This accounts for scouting the entry and exit points and carefully driving through the water. After the ford, expect the full driving loop to take 6 to 8 hours.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to pay to cross the river?
No. Driving the Cathedral Valley Loop and crossing the Fremont River is completely free.
Can I drive a 2WD car through the ford?
No. You need a 4WD vehicle with a minimum 8-inch ground clearance to safely navigate the river bottom.
What happens if I get stuck?
You should carry a shovel and basic vehicle recovery gear. Checking the water level beforehand is the best way to prevent getting stranded.
