Temple of the Sun & Temple of the Moon

@chadtorkelsen

Utah

•

Wayne County

Nestled in Capitol Reef National Park, one of the most remote national parks in the country, the Temple of the Sun and Moon are absolute gems. Although this little pocket of the national park is difficult to get to, the views are very rewarding, especially on a starry night.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime (overnight camping not permitted)

Fee

National Parks Pass or $20/vehicle per day

Pack

4x4 vehicle
Overland safety gear
Tripod
Water
Range of lenses (especially normal lens, 38mm)
Sunscreen
Model
Overnight camping gear (open camping outside of NP gate)

How to get there

N38° 27' 20.4264"W111° 11' 29.0868"

This photo of the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon was taken in Capitol Reef National Park. This spot is located in The Cathedral Valley District of the national park and it's quite a drive! To get there, take UT-24 and then Cathedral Valley Road. Following the sign for Glass Mountain will take you to a roundabout near the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. You can park your car there and walk towards the rock formations. You will need to have a 4x4 vehicle as it involves navigating through the rough dirt/sand roads, and it is located at a very remote spot. Make sure that you have plenty of gas and water for this trip as you are ages away from the closest station.