Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road Itinerary
Experience the stunning beauty of Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road, a 181km route starting in Green River, United States, and ending in Fremont, United States. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Hanksville, Caineville, and Ivie Creek.
This road trip is best experienced during the spring months when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. Along the route, you will witness breathtaking views of the red sandstone rock formations, unique geological features, and sweeping vistas of the valley.
Be aware that the road conditions are mostly poor, with some sections only accessible by 4WD, and some sections not suitable for motorhomes. There are also some curvy and narrow roads along the route, and some sections may be closed due to seasonal weather conditions.
Despite these challenges, this road trip provides an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
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number of days
181 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Green River
Distance 279 km
Driving time 17.4 h
Pace: slow
64.1 kWh
Airports
SLC
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Green River, located in Utah, United States, is the ideal starting point for the Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road road trip. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, the Green River State Park, and the Crystal Geyser.
For those who are looking for outdoor activities, the city has plenty to offer. With hiking, fishing, and camping, visitors can explore the nearby canyons and the Colorado River. Additionally, you can take a scenic drive along the Green River, which winds through the canyon.
For those who are traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The airport offers car rental services, so you can easily get to Green River and start your road trip.
Once you get to Green River, there are several sights to explore. The John Wesley Powell River History Museum offers insight into the area's past and showcases artifacts from the pioneers who settled in the area. The nearby Green River State Park is home to many wildlife species, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. Finally, the Crystal Geyser is a natural wonder that is definitely worth a visit.
Green River is the perfect starting point for the Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road road trip. With plenty of attractions, outdoor activities, and natural wonders, visitors will have plenty to explore in this beautiful city.
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Green River
- Hanksville
Distance 92 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
27.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Get ready to hit the road from Green River to Hanksville! This 57mi drive will take you less than an hour, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenic road. Make sure to keep your eyes open, as there are plenty of interesting places to visit along the way.
Start your journey at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum in Green River. Here you can learn about the history of the area, from the original inhabitants to the present day. You can also visit the Green River State Park, which offers plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.
As you drive towards Hanksville, you'll pass by the San Rafael Swell, an area of stunning natural beauty. Take a break and explore the area, or just enjoy the views. You'll also pass by Goblin Valley State Park, where you can explore the unique rock formations.
Finally, you'll arrive in Hanksville. Here you can explore the Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry, where you can find dinosaur fossils. You can also visit the Hanksville-Burpee Museum to learn more about the area's history and geology.
This is just one stage of your road trip, so make sure to check the Itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Hanksville - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Hanksville
- Caineville
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
9.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Hanksville-Caineville road trip stage! This 20mi journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and it's part of a larger tour.
Hanksville is a small town in the middle of the desert and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. Be sure to check out the Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry, which houses dinosaur fossils from the Jurassic period. Another must-see is the Goblin Valley State Park, a unique landscape of sandstone formations.
Caineville, located just 20mi away, is a small town with a rich history. Visit the historic Caineville Schoolhouse, which was built in the late 1800s. You can also take a walk along the Fremont River Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Caineville - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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3
Caineville
- Cathedral Valley
- Ivie Creek
Distance 105 km
Driving time 15.1 h
Pace: slow
24.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Caineville, United States, to Ivie Creek, and discover the beauty of Cathedral Valley. This 65-mile journey will take you fewer than 15 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll get to explore the stunning landscapes of Cathedral Valley, including the breathtaking views of the San Rafael Swell. Make sure to take your 4WD vehicle, as some sections of the route may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Keep in mind that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and there may be a lack of gas stations in the area. You'll also encounter steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow paths, so be sure to drive with caution. Although this is one of the stages of a larger tour, you'll still be able to enjoy the beauty of Cathedral Valley. Be sure to check out the amazing landmarks, such as the Temple of the Moon, the Temple of the Sun, and the Caineville Wash. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Ivie Creek - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - TrailLink
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Ivie Creek
- Hogan Pass
Distance 27 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
8.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Get ready for an amazing road trip from Ivie Creek to Hogan Pass! This 17-mile stretch is a beautiful drive, with winding roads, scenic views, and plenty of places to explore. You can expect to make the drive in less than an hour, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. Along the way, you'll find plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery, including the Ivie Creek Nature Trail, the Hogan Pass Overlook, and the Hogan Pass Wildlife Refuge. You'll also find plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or find a place to stay for the night. Don't forget to bring your camera, as this stretch of road is sure to provide plenty of photo opportunities. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Hogan Pass - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Dangerous Roads
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5
Hogan Pass
- Fremont
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
6.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Hogan Pass to Fremont! This 14-mile drive is sure to be a memorable one, taking you less than an hour to complete.
Starting off in Hogan Pass, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks and the surrounding area. Make sure to take a few pictures to capture the beauty of this place.
Continuing on, you’ll drive through the Coconino National Forest, with its stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you drive along, you’ll pass by the historic Mormon Lake, where you can take a break and enjoy the fresh air.
Finally, you’ll arrive in Fremont, where you can explore the area’s many attractions. Visit the Grand Canyon National Park, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the canyon. You can also visit the Grand Canyon Railway, which runs from Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy the ride!
Fremont - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Fremont
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Fremont is the perfect end to your Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road road trip. Located in the United States, the city offers a wealth of attractions and activities. One of the most popular places to visit is the Fremont National Forest, an ideal spot for hiking, camping and fishing. Here, you can find majestic views of the Cascade Mountains, as well as a wide range of wildlife.
Also in Fremont, you can take part in the annual Fremont Old-Fashioned Festival. Here, you can enjoy a range of activities such as live music, parades, carnival rides and more. The festival also has many food and craft vendors, so you can pick up a few souvenirs to take home.
For those traveling to Fremont by car, the closest international airport is Portland International Airport (PDX). The city is also home to the University of Oregon, which offers a range of educational and cultural opportunities, and is a great spot for students and families alike.
Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway or a long-term stay, Fremont is the ideal destination. With its stunning natural beauty and wide range of attractions, you’ll find something to suit your needs. So, end your road trip on a high note and head to Fremont.
Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Green River
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End:
Fremont
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Distance:
181 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road Trip, a captivating 181km (112 miles) journey that begins in the city of Green River and culminates in Fremont, Utah, United States. This route invites travelers on a picturesque expedition through varied landscapes, highlighted by the grandeur of Utah's backcountry. Roadtrippers are treated to ever-changing vistas, including the region's iconic rock formations and the serene beauty of Cathedral Valley.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The journey takes you through welcoming towns such as Hanksville, Caineville, and Ivie Creek, which offer a glimpse into local life and hospitality. Along the way, marvel at the awe-inspiring red sandstone rock formations like the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Moon, which stand as monuments to nature's artistry. Witness the intricate layers of earth's history etched into the walls of the Waterpocket Fold and the rugged gorge of Capitol Reef National Park, where the valley is cradled.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time to embark on this Road Trip is during the spring months when the weather conditions are mild, and the contrasting colors of the blooming flora against the red sandstone cliffs are especially breathtaking.
Potential Risks:
Navigating this route requires caution due to the unpaved Roads that may call for a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, especially after rains when the terrain can become slippery and treacherous. Motorhomes may find it challenging to manage certain sections of the Road, and bad weather conditions can lead to temporary Road closures. Additionally, the winding and narrow Roads demand careful driving, especially for those less accustomed to such conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Cathedral Valley loop is a testament to the rugged beauty of Utah's lesser-known landscapes. Not only is the Road Trip an accessible adventure for drivers with the appropriate vehicles, but it also offers a chance to explore the Fremont River's role in shaping the valley's cliffs and canyons. Furthermore, the area's rich history is punctuated by the presence of Fremont Indian rock art and dwellings, some dating back over a thousand years, adding a layer of cultural significance to your Scenic Drive.
A good choice for:
The Cathedral Valley Panoramic Road is more than a mere drive; it's an exploration of the raw and untamed wilderness that defines the American West. With thoughtful preparation and respect for the seasonal conditions, this journey can provide Roadtrippers with awe-inspiring vistas and a deeper connection with the natural world, leaving them with memories that will last a lifetime.