Cathedrals Trail
The 2.4 mile out-and-back Cathedrals Trail hike follows along a low ridge line, which parallels the line of monoliths known as the Cathedrals.
Plan Around Cathedrals Trail
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Cathedrals Trail Details
The 2.4 mile out-and-back Cathedrals Trail hike follows along a low ridge line, which parallels the line of monoliths known as the Cathedrals. The trailhead is on the Cathedral Road, 27.4 miles from Hwy. 24, or a little over two miles north of the Hartnet Road junction. A small wooden sign marks the trailhead, which begins with a short, steep ascent, followed by a relatively level walk along the gentle ridge to the west. There's a small hill at the trail's end that offers a sweeping view of the Cathedrals and Upper Cathedral Valley. Capitol Reef's northern Cathedral District is a remote backcountry with no paved roads. In this stark area, the northern flanks of Waterpocket Fold give way to deserts, studded with monoliths and volcanic dikes and crags. Both the Cathedral and Hartnet roads, passable only with high- clearance vehicles — four-wheel drive often recommended — provide access to a number of short hikes, including the Cathedrals Trail. These aren't official, maintained trails, but rather include obstacles in canyons, which change frequently due to weather, flash floods and rock falls. Anyone who attempts these backcountry hikes must be a capable map and compass reader, and must not rely solely on unofficial route markers like rock cairns. Roads in the area are maintained infrequently and often become impassable in winter or in rainy weather; be sure to check at the visitor center before setting out. At the south end of the Hartnet Road near Highway 24, vehicles must ford the Fremont River; there is no bridge. Vehicles should not attempt to cross the river during floods or any other time when the water is high. Remember, backcountry hikers should always let others know of their planned route and return times, and should carry extra food, water and sun protection.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
1.2 miles
Estimated time
1-2 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Cathedrals Trail
Compare nearby parks around Cathedrals Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Cathedrals Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Cathedrals Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.7 mi away
Morrell Cabin Trail
This short, easy hike is .4-mile round trip, and begins 1.8 miles north of the junction of the Hartnet and Cathedral Roads.
0.8 mi away
Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook Trail
The short .2-mile roundtrip Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook is an easy hike, highlighted by panoramic views of a line of monoliths in the valley known as the Cathedrals.
1.0 mi away
Upper South Desert Overlook Trail
The short, .4-mile roundtrip Upper South Desert Overlook offers, as the name would suggest, a great view over the upper reaches of South Desert.
1.2 mi away
Cathedral Valley Campground
Cathedral Campground is one of Capitol Reef National Park's two primitive campgrounds.
3.0 mi away
Cathedral Valley Loop
One of the most popular ways to take in the Cathedral Valley is via the Cathedral Valley Loop Tour.
