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Full-Day Private Off-Road Tour in Capitol Reef National Park

Overview
Cathedral Valley is one of those places that visitors always end up asking "Where is that?, why didn't I see that when I visited Capitol Reef?"

The reality is, though some of its most awe-inspiring features are included in promotional photos and literature, access to the region is not something a new visitor to the park in a rental vehicle would be advised to embark on. It is, however, one that is highly recommended to any visitor who wants to experience the true heart and soul of Capitol Reef.
We offer two options for this tour: 1. Half Day and 2. Full Day.
1. Half-day tour will take you to the most beautiful and iconic features of Capitol Reef: Temple of the Sun, Temple of Moon, and The Glass Mountain. You will see grand vistas of the colorful Bentonite and Mancos Shale, Mars-like formations.
2. Full-day is an 7-9 hour long trip that will take you on a 60-mile Cathedral Valley loop to all 8 destinations detailed in the tour's itinerary of the "What to expect" session below.
City: Utah
Sun 03 Aug
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $190.00
Sun 03 Aug
Starting at $190.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Additional Info
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Not recommended for visually impaired travelers
What To Expect
1
Cathedral Valley
We will pick up guests at their lodging location in one of our luxury off-road SUVs. Guests will then be transported through approximately 70 miles of some of the most remote terrain in Utah. The renowned Cathedral Valley Loop includes a dramatic river crossing (in the safety of our capable SUVs) as well as scenic stops. Refreshments will be provided as well as a stop for lunch and/or snacks. Insight into the history, both ancient, geologic, and recent, will be provided to add to the pure scenic spectacle that is an unforgettable memory and adventure.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (33)
Francine C
Nov 2024
Mel, the owner, has not lose his sense of awe and wonder. He is as happy to be out among the gorgeous and interesting sites as we were to go. Mel, has a lot of knowledge of the area and we learned a lot. We saw The Temple of the Sun and The Temple of the Moon. Then we chose to go to an entirely different environment and saw The Factory. The feeling of Remote is overwhelming and beautiful. I would only want to be with someone who truly knows the area, and Mel does.
Edgar_D
Nov 2024
The experience was incredible! Amazing! The tour guide Mel was great! He gave us a lot of info. Excellent!
Sojourner1986
Oct 2024
We were picked up at our campsite by Mel, our guide. He was a bit late and then had to stop for fuel. We did get to see the Cathedral Valley part of Capital Reef National Park, but in some spots we felt a bit rushed. Instead of pointing out interesting things, he would go back to the Jeep and wait for us. We only briefly got out of the Jeep on a couple of occasions. It would have been nice to do a few short hikes. We had packed a lunch but were never given the opportunity to stop and enjoy it along the way. There were snacks in the doors and water (warm) was provided.
Response from Host
Oct 2024
We never "rush" our guests unless it’s in the customer’s best interest. For example, we might suggest spending less time at one location to allow for more time at a more scenic spot or to capture better lighting conditions. For afternoon tours, for instance, we might recommend spending less time at the Gypsum Sinkhole to ensure guests arrive in time for a spectacular sunset at the Temples. In fact, 95% of our excursions run longer than the times quoted in the descriptions. We frequently add stops at interesting points based on each guest’s specific interests and desires. Bottled water and snacks are provided and are not "warm." We travel in the desert, where it can get hot—which is something to expect during a desert vacation. Upon departure, water placed in the passenger door sides and between seats is cool or cold, though conditions may change after four hours in the desert. We keep a cooler in the back of our vehicles, and cold water from it would have been provided upon request. If you had asked to stop for a meal, we would have gladly provided that courtesy. Similarly, if you had requested the lunch option offered on full-day tours, it would have been provided, however, you chose a half-day, 3-4 hour tour (unfortunately, the headline doesn’t specify which option you selected), lunch was neither offered nor included in the itinerary, therefore the only way your guide would have stopped for a lunch break on a half-day tour is by letting him or her know. All guests are informed that enjoying meals, snacks, and water in the vehicle while en route is encouraged. Regarding hiking, Viator is not set up for add-ons, which would allow us to accommodate additional time and costs for hikes. No hikes were offered or implied in the advertising, nor were you charged for them. Hikes take time, and since Viator doesn’t support add-ons, charging everyone indiscriminately—regardless of whether they wish to hike—would be unfair. You could have contacted us to request additional hikes, but again, you did not. You mentioned that Mel gave you some free time to explore the Temple of the Moon, as is customary on nearly all tours. This allows guests a peaceful, intimate experience in the wilderness, free from a guide’s constant presence. So, you’re welcome for the "hike" that you acknowledged was provided at no additional charge.

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