Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook in Capitol Reef region of Grand CirclePhoto by Evan Sanchez

Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook

timer icon1h
Highlights
checkmark grey iconVista points
checkmark grey iconEpic views
checkmark grey iconUnique landscapes
checkmark grey iconRemote
Curated byRomanUpdated

I’d put Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook on the list for a viewpoint stop.

More about this place

Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook is a stunning viewpoint of Cathedral Valley, a remote and rugged section of the park that is known for its towering sandstone monoliths and colorful rock formations.

It is quite a detour from the rest of attractions, but it offers an awe-inspiring panoramic view of Cathedral Valley, making it well worth the extra driving time.

To reach the overlook, you have to drive along the unpaved Cathedral Valley Loop Road, which is recommended for high-clearance vehicles. The overlook is a short hike from the parking area, and the trail offers some incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The overlook itself is perched atop a rocky outcrop, and you can take in sweeping vistas of Cathedral Valley and the nearby Henry Mountains.

The best times to visit the overlook are early morning and late afternoon, when the light is most favorable for photography and the temperatures are more moderate.

Explore Grand Circle itineraries

checkmarkExpert-curated
checkmarkDay-to-day
checkmarkPerfect logistics

Curated stays in Capitol Reef

checkmarkTop reviews
checkmarkGreat value
checkmarkLocation fits your route
Capitol Reef Resort preview image
Unique tag iconUnique
Luxe tag iconLuxe
Capitol Reef Resort
8.8 ⁄10
From $169
Resorts
Luxury tents
Yurts
Scenic views
Spa
Restaurants
Horseback riding
Stargazing
Sustainable
Red River Ranch Lodge preview image
Red River Ranch Lodge
From $209
Boutique hotel
Lodge
Stylish
Classic design
Restaurants
Library
Cougar Ridge preview image
Cougar Ridge
9.8 ⁄10
From $426
Boutique hotel
Farm stay
Luxury villas
Stylish
Restaurants
Sauna
Llamas
Red Sands Hotel preview image
Red Sands Hotel
9.2 ⁄10
From $160
3-star hotel
Stylish
Scenic views
Spa
Yoga
arrow left icon
arrow right icon